Renault Modus
Ratings
3 stars
Summary
Average. A practical mini MPV based on the Clio, but looks expensive compared to rivals.
Review
There's lots to like about the Modus, which combines smart design with excellent practicality thanks to its tall construction and spacious cabin. Think of it as being a smaller version of the Megane Scenic MPV and you've pretty much got your head around it.
It certainly looks cuter than the average supermini with strong design helping it to get away with its tall stance and relatively narrow construction. The cabin is practical and well-finished with digital instruments sunk into the top of the dashboard and most of the plastics feeling respectably upmarket for a car in this segment.
The Modus's big downside is its relative lack of practicality - it's not as big as rivals like the Vauxhall Meriva or Nissan Note. Space is good for four passengers, although the narrow rear seat means that fitting three occupants in the back is a real struggle. But the boot is very small, especially with the back seat slid into its rearmost position.
On the plus side, all versions drive well and buyers have lots of engines and trim levels to choose between. Motorway refinement is impressive for something so small and the Modus will even attack a country road with a reasonable degree of enthusiasm. Of the available powerplants, the entry level 1.2 litre petrol and 1.5 DCi 68 diesel both lack much in the way of urge, but the more powerful 86 bhp and 106 bhp diesels are far better, and the range-topping 1.6 litre petrol motor gives the Modus a decent turn of pace.
Ratings Breakdown
Styling
4 star
Tall and practical, but Renault's designers have managed to give the Modus enough visual interest to stop it from looking boring.
Handling
3 star
Composed and competent roadholding - surprisingly good on motorways, too.
Comfort
4 star
Ride quality is reasonable over rougher roads, although some find the upright driving position gets uncomfortable over time.
Quality & Reliability
3 star
Well finished inside and out and with some decent quality plastics in the cabin.
Performance
3 star
Basic engines struggle with fuller loads, but the range-topping 106 bhp diesel and 1.6 litre petrol engines give sprightly performance.
Roominess
4 star
Lots of room for four occupants, but the boot is too small for something that is being described as a compact MPV.
Running Costs
4 star
Good value servicing, strong fuel economy and cheap insurance mean the Modus is a very cost effective way of getting around.
Value for money
3 star
Expensive considering limited standard equipment, especially the need to pay more for air conditioning on most versions.
