RENAULT designers have gone to great lengths to give a bit of off-road credibility to the sleek, modern European Scenic which, unlike most other recreational four-wheel drives, was not built with American trucks and pickups in mind. The rear hatch has gone, replaced by a double-section electric barn door with the spare wheel mounted in the centre for all to see and admire. Then there's the big, wide plastic protection belt - available in four toning colours - designed to protect body panels from scratching and light impact. Prominent bumpers extend from this cladding, following the shape of the vehicle and at the front including what Renault describes as a "roo bar". Potoroo bar, we think they mean.