Motability is an instrumental charity for thousands of people across the UK, who are living with disabilities – offering vital independence and mobility.
It’s been around since 1977 and has helped of people, and it continues to be a vital service. For those qualifying, you’re able to get a brand-new car every three years and pick between a whole host of new cars.
The choice has never been greater – especially from Renault, which nearly has its full range on offer.
Here’s what you need to know about Renault and Motability…
Which models can I choose?
While you might not find every Renault on Motability, the majority of its cars are offered through the scheme – including everything from the Clio supermini to the seven-seat Grand Scenic MPV.
Clio
Renault’s latest Clio is a big step up from the last version – being much better to drive and having a superb interior that offers a level of quality not found previously. The Clio also boasts the largest boot of any supermini – offering an impressive 391 litres of room.
Megane
While a facelifted version of the Ford Focus-sized Megane might be arriving in the middle of year, the current model remains stylish, versatile and good to drive. It’s available both as a five-door hatchback and a more spacious Sports Tourer version, which makes it the only Renault estate car offered.
Captur
Renault’s latest Captur might have only just arrived in showrooms, but Motability buyers can already choose this spacious and stylish crossover. This new car is available with sliding rear seats, while the options for personalisation are rare in this class.
Kadjar
The mid-size Kadjar is now one of Renault’s most popular models, and it scores plenty of points for looking the part, while also being one of the most spacious models in its class. A long standard equipment list also means you get plenty of car for your money.
Koleos
While not a seven-seater, the Koleos is Renault’s largest SUV, and features a huge boot and generous space in the rear. A facelifted model has only recently arrived in the UK, offering additional standard safety kit and higher-quality materials throughout the interior.
Grand Scenic
You might think that seven-seat MPVs have to be plain and bland, but the Grand Scenic proves this isn’t the case. With its bold design, and tech-laden interior, this is undoubtedly the most striking people carrier on sale. Fundamentally, though, it’s still able to seat seven with ease and be just as spacious as you would hope.
Trafic
If space is the key requirement for your Motability vehicle, the van-based Trafic minibus is the model to go for. It can seat up to nine adults, while a recent update introduced new creature comforts to the model, along with an efficient 2.0-litre diesel engine.
How much will it cost?
To qualify for a Motability car, you need to receive one of the following mobility allowances, which amounts to £61.20 per week.
- Higher Rate Mobility Component of Disability Living Allowance (HRMC DLA)
- Enhanced Rate of the Mobility Component of Personal Independence Payment (EMRC PIP)
- War Pensioners’ Mobility Scheme (WPMS), which is slightly more at £68.35 per week
- Armed Forced Independence Payment (AFIP)
Depending on the car you choose and its value, you may have to pay an advance payment on top of the weekly rentals, though with others, your weekly allowance will cover it.
The great thing to know about Renault is that four of the seven cars it sells are available with no advance rental. Entry-level versions of the Clio and Captur also don’t even have to take up your full weekly payment (if you’re on the Disability Living Allowance). Even top-spec versions of both these cars won’t cost you more than £295 in an advance payment. Both the Megane and Captur are available with no advance payment, either.
If you would like the Renault Grand Scenic or Koleos, they’re each available from an advance payment of £595 and £1,495 respectively, while the nine-seat Trafic Passenger model can be had from £2,295.
What’s included?
The Motability Scheme is great for its all-inclusive offering, which covers just about all aspects associated with running a vehicle.
Alongside the car that can be changed every three years, you also get fully comprehensive insurance for two named drivers, as well as free servicing, maintenance and repairs included – even including tyre and windscreen replacement. Breakdown cover from the RAC is also offered in the package.
What about special adaptions?
A host of adaptions are available on your Motability car to ensure that the driving (or passenger) experience is as comfortable as possible. Some of these are available free of charge, while others you might have to pay for. That said, there are grants out there to cover some of these adaptions.
The Trafic Passenger is also an ideal model to convert for wheelchair access. The firm’s Motability experts will be on hand to find the most accessible solution for your needs, regardless of the car you’re interested in.