Roadtest by Nick Fletcher.

WE HAVE all become familiar with the multi-purpose-vehicle being known as the MPV.

Now, thanks to Renault, we have to get used to another set of initials, MAC - multi-activity-car.

For with the new Megane Scenic, entering UK showrooms this month Renault has created has it describes as a "whole new type of car".

Renault say the design of the Scenic is the result of a culture where the vehicle is considered to be an intelligent part of the family, able to cope with different kinds of activity on the move, and making much better use of the space.

And the company certainly seems to have worked a magical touch with the Scenic, for although it is the same length as the Megane hatchback, it seems twice as large inside !

Very clever design and innovative interior features give the Scenic a distinct advantage in the competitive family car sector. It will seat five adults, and the rear seat is actually in three segments, all individually adjustable and removeable.

And the centre rear seat can be replaced with a large clip-in storage box which, in itself, can be plugged in to form a refrigerated box !

On the back of the front seats are air-line style tables.

The car also has lots of interior stowage, including compartments for one litre bottles, and a neat dual-height rear parcel shelf to give much more load versatility.

The Scenic is taller than its Megane stablemates, giving excellent head room and a much better driving position.

Renault is keen to stress that it is not a shrunken MPV, but a car in its own right, but it is difficult to avoid this comparison.

The Scenic comes with a choice of three engines, 1.6 and 2.0 litre petrol units and a 1.9 litre turbo diesel.

The entry level model is priced-on-the-road at £ 12,995, the flagship 2.0 litre RXE model which boasts features like air conditioning, twin electric sunroofs, roof bars and alloy wheels, is £ 16,595.

Even entry level models have standard power steering, driver's airbag, height adjustable steering wheel, remote control stereo system, remote control locking, tinted glass, and immobiliser.

I spent a few days testing the new Scenic in France, taking in a variety of activities to test its versatility, and I came back extremely impressed.

This Megane Scenic is extremely neat and nimble to drive, yet does have the kind of practicality that families need and a whole range of features which you will not find in conventional estate cars.

Renault enjoys a very chic market image these days, and is enjoying a sales boom in the UK with 1997 sales up by more than 20 per cent.

The scenic is likely to prove a real winner, certainly judging from the rapturous reception it has enjoyed in France, where the factory was struggling to keep up with demand.

I feel the Scenic is set to make a big impact and quickly become a familiar sight on UK roads.

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.