Renault Scala RxL AT

Scala RxL AT Review

Renault Scala is a stylish sedan series introduced by the Indian wing of French automaker in the country. This sedan comes in a few variants among which, the Renault Scala RxL AT is the mid range petrol variant. This trim sports a 1.5-litre, XH2 petrol power plant that is paired with a sophisticated CVT Xtronic automatic transmission gearbox. Interestingly, this CVT version is more fuel efficient than its manual version as it can deliver a peak mileage of 17.97 Kmpl. This mid range variant gets all the features that are standard in the RxL variants including the features like automatic air conditioning system with air quality filter, driver's seat height adjuster and many other such features. This sedan looks attractive both from inside and outside. Its internal cabin has a beige color scheme, which is complimented by a few metallic inserts given on the dashboard and door panels. From outside, this sedan has a large body structure, but is equipped with rugged cosmetics like an hexagonal shaped air intake section and bumper, which makes it look attractive. At present, the car maker is offering this luxury trim in a total of five different metallic paint options including Red, Solid Black, Pearl White, Metallic Silver and Blue.

Exteriors:

Despite of having a large and curvy body structure, it looks very aggressive. To start with the front profile, it has a large hexagonal shaped air intake section, which is separated by a thick black colored strip. The upper part has a sleekly structured grille that has an expressively designed chrome strip and the company's insignia. It is surrounded by an oval shaped smoked headlight cluster that is equipped with powerful halogen headlights. Below this, the body colored bumper has a masculine structure that further enhances the aggressive appeal of its front. Its side profile has a lustrous body structure. Its pull type door handles have been garnished in chrome, while the ORVM caps have been painted in body color. In addition to these, the window sills gets a black sash tape that gives a decent look to the side profile. Its rear profile is looks pretty big with a large tailgate that is decorated with a thick chrome plated strip with 'SCALA' lettering. The rear bumper has a two toned look as it comes fitted with a black colored under-guard. The taillight cluster has a swept-back structure and it is equipped with C contoured light pattern.

Interiors:

The internal cabin of this Renault Scala RxL AT have been done up with beige colored materials, which brings a plush ambiance to the interiors. The dashboard is pretty large and is equipped with a number of aspects like a glove box unit, advanced central console and an instrument panel. It is also equipped with a three spoke steering wheel that is mounted with several audio control switches. All seats come with integrated headrests while the rear center armrest also got two cup holders. This trim also gets a clutch foot rest along with a driver's seat height adjuster, which further enhances the drive comforts. The car maker has also equipped a multi-information display that features a tachometer, door ajar warning light, headlamp-on reminder buzzer, outside temperature display and a programmed service reminder. Apart from these, the car maker has also incorporated several utility based aspects inside such as reading lamp, 12V power outlet, digital clock, cup holders on front central console and numerous other such aspects.

Engine and Performance:

This mid range trim is powered by an advanced 1.5-litre, XH2 petrol engine that comes equipped with electronic fuel injection system. This motor comes with 4-cylinders and 16-valves and makes a total displacement of 1498cc. It can generate a commanding power output of 99.6bhp at 5600rpm that results in churning out a peak torque output of 134Nm at just 4000rpm. This engine is paired with a revolutionary CVT X-TRONIC automatic transmission gearbox that delivers optimum torque output to the front wheels and ensures a smoother driving experience. This engine has the ability to produce a maximum mileage of about 17.97 Kmpl, which is more than its manual version.

Braking and Handling:

This luxury sedan is bestowed with superior braking mechanism with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes. This disc and drum braking mechanism gets the assistance from anti lock braking system, electronic brake force distribution and emergency brake assist system , which ensures precise stopping of the vehicle. It is also blessed with a robust suspension system in the form of McPherson strut fitted on its front axle, whereas the torsion bars paired with the rear axle. The car maker has also installed an electric power assisted steering system with a turning radius of 5.3 meters, which provides an excellent response to the driver.

Comfort Features:

The Renault Scala RxL AT is the mid range variant and it comes with an AC unit featuring an automatic climate control system, air quality filter and rear comfort blowers, which keeps the ambiance pleasant and odor free. It also comes with a list of features including key less entry, follow me home headlamps, electrically adjustable outside mirrors, tilt adjustable electric power steering, height adjustable driver's seat, clutch foot rest, front sun visors with vanity mirrors, multi-information display, remote trunk opening and much more. Apart from these, it also has utility aspects like digital clock, accessory power outlet, cabin lamp, and cup holders. It is also equipped with features like an integrated audio system featuring 4-speakers, AM/FM player, CD/MP3 player and AUX-In connectivity along with audio controls mounted on steering wheel.

Safety Features:

This mid range gets some of the advanced safety features, which keeps the occupants protected. It comes with a list of safety aspects including dual front airbags, ABS+EBD with emergency brake assist system, speed sensing auto door lock, head restraints, rear window defroster with timer, anti-theft device with alarm and anti-pinch power window on driver's side.


Pros:
1. CVT Xtronic transmission helps it to perform better.
2. Spacious interior cabin and a large boot compartment.

Cons:
1. Lack of Bluetooth and USB connectivity adds to the disadvantage.
2. Price range can be more competitive.