Following hot on the heels of the new Megane hatchback and Megane Coupe models that were introduced at the Paris Motor Show earlier this month will be Renault's third generation Scenic minivan that's due in showrooms in the first quarter of 2009. However, thanks to the EU patent office, we can give you an early sneak peak of Renault's mid-size people carrier through these official application images. Interestingly, the black and white photos reveal that Renault's design team looked more towards the Laguna Coupe for inspiration rather than to the new Megane hatchback. -Continued

As you can see, the French company will continue its strategy of offering a two-model line-up for its new mid-size people carrier: the five-seater Scenic III and the seven-seater Grand Scenic featuring an extended wheelbase.

Both versions of the French minivan are heavily based on the underpinnings of the 2009 Megane hatchback with which they will share the same engine line-up. Diesel options will include 1.5 dCi 85HP, 90 HP, 105 HP and 110 HP engines along with more powerful 130 HP, 150HP and 160 HP variants. The petrol engine range will consist of 100 and 110HP 1.6-liter units, a 140HP 2.0-liter engine and the turbocharged 130HP 1.4TCe and 180HP 2.0TCe units.

Targeted at the Opel Zafira, Volkswagen Touran and Citroen C4 Picasso / Grand Picasso, the new Scenic is expected carry over many of the qualities of its predecessor like the spacious cabin with more cubby holes that you can ever imagine as well as a versatile interior with extremely flexible seats that can be folded or totally removed to free extra storage space.

2009 Renault Scenic III

2009 Renault Grand Scenic III