THE latest Renault Scenic introduced in 2003 has added another accolade to its impressive list by winning the "Compact MPV" category in the Auto Express Used Car Honours 2005.

Renault Scenic was the first winner in its class of the Compact MPV award when the category was first introduced into the Auto Express Used Car Honours eight years ago, and now new Scenic has done it again in its debut year.

It is the first time the second generation Renault Scenic was eligible to enter the awards, and in scooping the top honour, it beat off stiff competition from two of its direct competitors, Vauxhall Zafira and VW Touran.

The Auto Express team on the judging panel declared Scnic as "great value, dynamically styled, fun to drive" and that "the Scenic is a highly desirable car.

The seven-seat Grand option means it has the seven-seat versatility that's such big news on the used market, while the newness of its design makes the Zafira look suddenly outdated."

The praise for new Scenic does not end there.

The judges also stated that "The Scenic is a perfect example of Renault doing what it does best - making a car that's eminently practical, great value for money and amazingly versatile, without forsaking style. And it's those elements that give the Scenic the honours".

In addition to Scenic taking the top honours in the Compact MPV category, Renault's flagship Espace was also commended in the MPV category.

Bob O'Reilly, manager, used vehicle operations for Renault, who accepted the award said: "New Scenic has done the first generation awardwinning Scenic proud, and it's a great honour to scoop the Compact MPV award for Scenic.

"To win the very first time it has been eligible to enter reinforces Scnic's position as the car of choice whether used or new.

"The Scenic has won many new car awards but it's great to see it makes sense for the used car buyer too. I am also delighted that Espace picked up commended honours, too."