The Renault Lodgy Stepway 1.5 dCi, producing 85 horsepower, was a variant of the Lodgy minivan produced from 2015 onwards. Positioned as an entry-level to mid-range option within the Lodgy lineup, it aimed to provide affordable, practical transportation for families, particularly in European markets. The Lodgy itself was Renault’s attempt to capture a segment of the market seeking a budget-friendly, spacious multi-purpose vehicle (MPV). The Stepway trim added some rugged styling cues to the standard Lodgy, attempting to broaden its appeal. It was built on the Dacia/Renault X90 platform, also underpinning the Dacia Dokker and Logan MCV.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Lodgy |
| Generation | Lodgy Stepway |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.75 l/100 km (49.5 US mpg, 59.5 UK mpg, 21.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 156 km/h (96.93 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 15.3 kg/Hp, 65.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm, 154 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 58.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1900 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1299 kg (2863.8 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 207 l (7.31 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4522 mm (178.03 in.) |
| Width | 1767 mm (69.57 in.) |
| Height | 1697 mm (66.81 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2810 mm (110.63 in.) |
| Front track | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1478 mm (58.19 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 174 mm (6.85 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.1 m (36.42 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive, Internal Combustion engine |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Lodgy Stepway 1.5 dCi utilized the K9K engine, a well-established Renault-Nissan diesel engine. This 1.5-liter, four-cylinder engine featured a common rail direct injection system, a turbocharger with an intercooler, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain. The K9K engine family is known for its relatively simple design and robustness. The 85 horsepower version was tuned for fuel efficiency rather than outright performance. The engine’s control unit (ECU) managed fuel delivery and injection timing to optimize combustion. The five-speed manual transmission was the only gearbox option available with this engine configuration. This transmission was chosen for its cost-effectiveness and suitability for the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 85 hp 1.5 dCi engine in the Lodgy Stepway provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration was leisurely, taking nearly 14 seconds to reach 62 mph. The engine’s 200 Nm (147 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1900 rpm, provided reasonable pulling power for everyday driving and carrying a full load of passengers. The five-speed manual transmission was geared to prioritize fuel economy, meaning that highway cruising required relatively high engine speeds. Compared to higher-powered Lodgy variants (such as those with the 110 hp version of the 1.5 dCi), the 85 hp model felt noticeably slower, especially when fully loaded. The manual transmission offered more driver engagement than an automatic would have, but also required more effort in stop-and-go traffic.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Stepway trim level added some visual enhancements to the standard Lodgy, including plastic body cladding, roof rails, and fog lights. Inside, the 85 hp version typically featured basic cloth upholstery, a simple dashboard layout, and manual air conditioning. Standard safety equipment included ABS brakes, driver and passenger airbags, and seatbelts for all occupants. Optional extras included a radio with Bluetooth connectivity, rear parking sensors, and upgraded upholstery. The Stepway trim aimed to offer a slightly more adventurous look without significantly increasing the price.
Chassis & Braking
The Lodgy Stepway featured a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t particularly sporty. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were drums. This configuration was typical for vehicles in this price segment. The electric power steering provided light and easy steering, making it convenient for maneuvering in urban environments. The Stepway trim did not feature any significant upgrades to the chassis or braking system compared to the standard Lodgy.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Lodgy Stepway 1.5 dCi was generally well-received as an affordable and practical MPV. Critics praised its spacious interior, fuel efficiency, and low running costs. However, the 85 hp engine was often criticized for being underpowered, especially when the vehicle was fully loaded. Compared to other MPVs in the same price range, such as the Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Partner, the Lodgy offered a good balance of space, practicality, and affordability. The 110 hp version of the 1.5 dCi engine offered significantly better performance, but came at a higher price. The 85 hp version appealed to buyers who prioritized fuel economy and low running costs over outright performance.
Legacy
The K9K engine, used in the Lodgy Stepway 1.5 dCi, has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. While not without its issues (such as potential turbocharger problems and injector wear), it is generally considered to be a durable engine when properly maintained. On the used car market, the Lodgy Stepway 1.5 dCi remains an affordable option for families seeking a spacious and practical MPV. Its low running costs and relatively simple mechanicals make it an attractive choice for budget-conscious buyers. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limitations and ensure that it has been regularly serviced.
