Renault Lodgy Review

The slab-sided Lodgy is no looker and is an MPV that puts practicality above aesthetics. Its low floor allows easy access into the cabin while all-round visibility is good. The cabin is neatly done but isn’t what you would call rich. Space and comfort in the first two rows are fine, though the option to slide the middle seats is missed. Even so, the third row is adequate for two adults. It’s just that the last row’s knees-up seating position is awkward. The Renault gives the option to split and fold, or even entirely remove the third-row seats to make serious room for luggage.
The base Lodgy’s 85hp, 1.5-litre diesel motor is surprisingly adept and incredibly efficient. The 110hp version, on the other hand, doesn’t feel completely alert at low speeds but offers plenty of go for highway driving. A heavy clutch is sadly part of the package and the Lodgy’s steering isn’t the lightest, either. What the Lodgy does do rather well is smoothen bad roads. High-speed manners are also very good, making the Renault MPV a capable long-distance machine.