Used Renault Grand Modus Hatchback 2008 - 2012 review

This Renault Grand Modus still has only five seats like the non-Grand version, but there's more room inside for passengers to stretch out, and the boot's bigger than in the standard Modus, too.

Even some family cars can't match this Renault for legroom, especially in the back. As in the smaller version, buyers had the option of choosing a sliding rear-seat system that favours passenger or boot space as required. The central seat of the rear bench also flips up, so the two outer ones can slide inwards to create more shoulder room for two rear-seat passengers.

The Grand Modus is entirely reasonable to drive, with a suspension set-up that's aimed at comfort. The body rolls a bit, and the steering is short of feel, but it's well suited to town work.

The Grand Modus gets a full five-star rating in Euro NCAP safety tests, and all cars come with a minimum of four airbags and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points. However, stability control isn't standard on any model.

The 1.2 TCE does an average of 47.9mpg, and emits 138g/km of CO2, while its less-powerful 74bhp sibling averages 47.8mpg and emits 140g/km of CO2.

The 1.5-litre diesel averages 68.9mpg and emits just 107g/km but, unless you plan to cover well over 12,000 miles a year, you may never recover the extra cost of the car.

Our pick of the range is the 100bhp 1.2 TCE, which offers nippy performance and decent fuel economy. Other engine options include a non-turbocharged 74bhp 1.2-litre and a frugal, but rare, 85bhp 1.5-litre diesel. If you want an automatic gearbox you're stuck with the scarce 110bhp 1.6-litre petrol model.

The entry-level Expression trim comes with air-con, remote central locking and front electric windows, making it good value. Dynamique models get alloy wheels, rear electric windows and curtain airbags.

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