2005 Renault Egeus Concept
Of all European carmakers, the French (and Italians) are the only ones who have not latched on to the sport utility vehicle bandwagon. Though this may not stand true for much longer, with PSA Peugeot Citroen and their announced partnership with Mitsubishi to build an Outlander-based clone, the third mass-production French carmaker, Renault, has yet to deliver. Renault is not completely oblivious to popular tastes; there has been some inclination to produce off-road capable vehicles. The Scenic RX-4 and the Kangoo Trekka mini-MPVs are two examples of vehicles retrofitted with butch plastic cladding and off-roading gear, but neither of the vehicles feature a sport utility body shape. Renault will change lanes though, as demonstrated through the Renault Egeus Concept, debuting at this year's Frankfurt Motor Show.