THE Renault Modus is based on the Clio so it has all the supermini’s positives along with a higher roofline and more space.
It’s refined and nippy, practical and smooth, and it comes in both normal and long wheelbase versions to give more space.
There are 1.2, 1.4 and 1.6 petrol engines, with power ranging from 75 to 113bhp and there are also four versions of the same very smooth and quiet 1.5 DCi turbo diesel, with power ranging from 65 to 106bhp.
With the windows closed, this diesel is almost inaudible – just as quiet as most petrol powered units – but, as with the 1.2, there are times when more urge would be useful in the lower power versions.
Performance is fair in them and good in all the others and the Modus handles superbly, taking fast corners much quicker than any MPV should be able to. It is also one of the safest cars in its class.
Interior
The seats are well-shaped and comfortable and the driving position is excellent. It rides well over all surfaces and is very family friendly, with a big boot, loads of cabin storage and decent kit even in lower order cars.
FAST FACTS
Renault Modus
Price: Pay about £4,100 for an ’05 05-reg Expression, or £7,450 for an ’09 09-reg Dynamique
Mechanical: 98bhp, 1,390cc, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5-speed manual gearbox
Max speed: 110mph
0-62mph: 11 seconds
Combined mpg: 42
Insurance group: 3
CO2 emissions: 160 g/km
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Vauxhall Meriva