# Renault Modus — Used Car Buying Guide

AutoScout's analysis of the Renault Modus on the UK used-car market. Backed by 33 million DVSA MOT tests, current AutoTrader pricing, and depreciation curves derived from CAP/Glass's Guide data.

Live interactive report: https://autoscout.fyi/cars/renault-modus

## Verdict

- **Best value year**: 2010
- **Ideal trim**: Dynamique
- **Target mileage**: 70,000–90,000 miles
- **Max previous owners**: 4
- **Target price**: £2,200

## Why this model

The Renault Modus is a surprisingly practical and compact MPV, perfect for city driving or as a second family car. It offers a good amount of interior space for its small footprint, with a versatile sliding rear bench seat that can increase boot space or rear legroom. It's very affordable to buy now, making it a budget-friendly option for someone needing basic, reliable transport. Just be aware it's an older car, so expect some wear and tear and factor in potential maintenance costs.

## What you should pay

The Modus is now at the very bottom of its depreciation curve, meaning you can pick one up for a very low price. Expect to pay between £1,800 and £3,000 for a decent 2008-2012 model with average mileage. Prices are stable at this low level, so you won't lose much more money on it, but don't expect it to gain value either. Focus on condition and service history over chasing the absolute lowest price.

## Which trim to buy

The Dynamique trim offers a great balance of features without pushing the price up too much. You'll typically get alloy wheels, air conditioning, electric windows all round, and a better stereo system compared to the basic Expression models, making it a more comfortable and enjoyable car to live with day-to-day. It's the sweet spot for value and equipment.

## What to check before you buy

- Electrical faults (windows, central locking, dashboard lights)
- Suspension wear (bushes, springs, shock absorbers)
- Power steering pump issues (can be noisy or fail)
- Exhaust system corrosion
- Window regulators failing
- General age-related wear and tear on interior plastics and trim

## Running costs

For a 1.2L petrol engine, you're looking at around 15-18 pence per mile for fuel, based on current petrol prices and 45 mpg. Road tax (VED) will be around £150-£190 per year depending on the specific engine and CO2 emissions. Insurance is generally low, falling into groups 5-10, so expect £300-£600 per year for a typical driver, but always get a personalised quote. Maintenance will be the biggest variable due to its age, so a good service history is key.

## Key stats

- **Fuel Type**: Petrol
- **Horsepower**: 75-110 hp
- **Mpg**: 40-50 mpg
- **Reliability Score**: 3/5
- **Safety Rating**: 5-star Euro NCAP (2004)

## Trim comparison

| Trim | Price new | Price used | Key features |
| --- | --- | --- | --- |
| Expression | £10,500 | £1,500 | Electric front windows; CD player; Remote central locking |
| Dynamique | £12,000 | £2,200 | 15-inch alloy wheels; Air conditioning; Electric rear windows |
| Initiale | £14,000 | £2,800 | Automatic climate control; Part-leather upholstery; Automatic headlights and wipers |

## Depreciation forecast

| Year | Estimated value | Retention |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 2026 | £2,200 | 0% |
| 2027 | £1,900 | 13.6% |
| 2028 | £1,600 | 15.8% |
| 2029 | £1,300 | 18.8% |
| 2030 | £1,000 | 23.1% |

The Modus has already lost the vast majority of its value. You're buying it at or near the absolute bottom of its depreciation curve. This means while it will continue to lose a small amount of value each year, the actual cash amount you lose will be minimal compared to a newer car. You're essentially buying a car for its utility until it's no longer economical to repair, rather than as an investment.

Total value lost since new: 90%.

## Alternatives to consider

- [Vauxhall Meriva](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/vauxhall-meriva.md)
- [Nissan Note](https://autoscout.fyi/cars/nissan-note.md)
- Ford Fusion

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Source: AutoScout (https://autoscout.fyi). Part of a review of the UK used-car market across 500+ models.