NEVER shy to explore new market territories, Renault is now gearing up for a new voyage of discovery with the launch of the Scenic Conquest - a compact MPV with the looks and some of the driving benefits of an SUV, Renault says that the Conquest is a car aimed at a wide range of customers, including those with a passion for leisure pursuits and the great outdoors, but what it is not is a 4x4 SUV with full off-road ability, as Renault will launch an SUV to fill this sector in 2008 based on its Koleos Concept.

With its raised driving position and ride height with stronger suspension, the Conquest is geared at countryside dwellers using unmade or poorly maintained roads and city slickers tackling giant potholes and speed bumps. What is doesn't have, however, is four-wheel drive.

Conquest's rugged looks are emphasised by is its 20mm higher ground clearance than a standard Scenic, twin skidplates protecting the underbody and suspension that has been modified to improve comfort on rough terrain.

The front and rear dampers have an increased range of travel and smaller anti-roll bars have been fitted. Finally, the special settings of the ESP electronic stability programme and ASR traction control enhance its all-terrain character.

At the front, the lower part of the bumper has a protective black graphite coating while the radiator grille and air intake have been revised and a satin chrome-finish skidplate shields the engine.

Making the Conquest even more distinguishable from other Scenics, it features dark lens headlamp covers and 16-inch alloy sports wheels, while at the rear, the black graphite bumper incorporates a satin chrome-coloured skidplate.

Chunky rubbing strips protect the side bodywork, while the wheel arch inners are protected by black graphite plastic. It also features robust door sill guards and chrome and black longitudinal roof bars.

Inside Conquest, splashes of orange (including graphics) differentiate the cabin from other Scenics while other unique touches include the blood-orange seatbelts and stitching for the gearlever gaiter and steering wheel.

Based on the best-selling Dynamique trim level, Conquest costs £550 more but adds extra equipment in the form of rear parking proximity sensors, ESP and roof bars, worth £700 if bought separately.

Renault has developed bespoke accessories that can be purchased as a range of kits. They include an interior bike rack, additional storage units, guards for the door and boot sills, a compartmentalised boot box and so on.

Conquest is available with a choice of two petrol and two diesel engines, ranging in power from 106hp to 136hp. All versions come with six-speed manual transmission as standard.

The new Scenic Conquest will be available to order in the UK from June 1, with prices starting at £16,765.