IN the ever-increasing world of car diversity and niche-filling, Renault has come up with this looks-like-a-4x4-but-isn’t version of the popular Scenic.

The XMOD adds the usual superficial bits and bobs to its exterior to give it that ‘crossover’ look and adds an advanced traction control system for people who might actually take this car down a slightly-bumpy country lane.

But, disregarding the marketing-led fluff, what we have here is a good family-orientated car.

It looks good on the outside, thanks to Renault’s latest design language that has been best-expressed so far in the Clio, but inside is where you’ll be looking most if you’re considering this car for your family.

Space is decent, with the extra headroom you’d expect in a car of this type, and the boot is fairly large, if not huge.

Dashboard and switchgear quality is a little average, but the TomTom system is very impressive.

As well as telling you how to get to where you want to go, it’ll tell you the nearest petrol station, hospital, doctor, dentist or even vet. It keeps an eye out for speed cameras and will tell you the weather.

All very handy when you’ve got three screaming kids in the back and you can plug your USB device into it as well.

The Dynamique level of trim on this tester, which was mid-range, also gives you auto headlights and wipers, 16in alloys and dual-zone climate control.

For mum or dad, the driving experience isn’t bad, with the 110 diesel engine offering a decent amount of pulling power. It claims 68.9mpg combined and puffs out just 109g/km of CO2, so tax is cheap. A good range of units, including more powerful 130hp lumps, are on offer.

Those who want an even less stress-free experience can add parking sensors, folding mirrors and, to drown out those noisy kids, a nine-speaker Bose sound system.

All in all, then, this is a good all-rounder for those with a young family.

Prices start at £17,955 and top-out at £23,695. Find out more at westovergroup.co.uk/Renault.