The Renault 21 2.0i Automatic, produced between 1989 and 1993, represented a comfortable and relatively well-equipped offering within the B48 generation of Renault’s popular family sedan. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it bridged the gap between the more economical base models and the sportier, higher-performance versions. The 21, launched in 1986, was intended as a replacement for the Renault 18, offering a more modern design, improved interior space, and enhanced mechanical sophistication. This particular variant, with its 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission, was primarily aimed at buyers seeking a blend of comfort, convenience, and reasonable performance for long-distance cruising and everyday family use, particularly in European markets.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | 21 |
| Generation | 21 (B48) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1989 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.5 l/100 km (18.8 US mpg, 22.6 UK mpg, 8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.4 kg/Nm, 155.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 60.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 168 Nm @ 4500 rpm (123.91 lb.-ft. @ 4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | J7R 746, J7R 747 |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1080 kg (2380.99 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1570 kg (3461.26 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 66 l (17.44 US gal | 14.52 UK gal) |
| Length | 4530 mm (178.35 in.) |
| Width | 1730 mm (68.11 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2660 mm (104.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1430 mm (56.3 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1400 mm (55.12 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Renault 21 2.0i Automatic is the J7R engine, specifically the 746 or 747 variant. This is a 1995cc, inline-four cylinder engine featuring a single overhead camshaft (OHC) and two valves per cylinder. The engine utilizes multi-port fuel injection, a significant upgrade over the carburetor systems found in earlier Renault models, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and smoother power delivery. The J7R engine was known for its relative durability and straightforward design, making it relatively easy to maintain. The automatic transmission paired with this engine is a four-speed unit, designed to provide comfortable and convenient shifting. While not known for its particularly quick acceleration, the transmission was generally reliable and well-suited to the engine’s torque characteristics.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0i Automatic offered a comfortable, if not particularly sporty, driving experience. With 120 horsepower, acceleration to 60 mph took around 9.4 seconds, and top speed was approximately 115 mph. The automatic transmission, while providing ease of use, did result in some power loss compared to the available five-speed manual gearbox. Gear ratios were tuned for relaxed cruising, prioritizing fuel economy and smooth transitions over outright performance. Compared to the more powerful Renault 21 Turbo models, the 2.0i Automatic felt noticeably less responsive, but it offered a more refined and less demanding driving experience. The torsion beam rear suspension provided a comfortable ride, but didn’t offer the same level of handling precision as more sophisticated independent suspension setups.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0i Automatic trim typically included features such as central locking, electric front windows, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was usually cloth, available in a range of colors. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded stereo systems, and air conditioning. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with clearly labeled controls. The overall interior ambiance was comfortable and practical, reflecting the car’s positioning as a family sedan. Higher trim levels within the 21 range offered more luxurious appointments, such as leather upholstery and wood trim, but the 2.0i Automatic provided a good balance of features for its price point.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 21 2.0i Automatic utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. Braking consisted of ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. Steering was rack and pinion, assisted by hydraulic power steering for ease of maneuverability. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride over uneven road surfaces. The braking system, while adequate for everyday use, wasn’t particularly powerful compared to more modern vehicles.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault 21 2.0i Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable family sedan. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and relatively fuel-efficient engine. However, it was often criticized for its somewhat uninspired styling and lack of sporty driving dynamics. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Ford Sierra and Opel/Vauxhall Cavalier, the Renault 21 offered a competitive level of equipment and comfort. Fuel economy was respectable for the time, averaging around 28 mpg in combined driving. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the automatic transmission over the long term.
Legacy
The Renault 21, and specifically the 2.0i Automatic variant, holds a nostalgic place for many European car enthusiasts. The J7R engine, while not a high-performance unit, proved to be relatively durable and easy to maintain. Today, well-maintained examples are becoming increasingly rare and sought after by collectors. The automatic transmission, while not as desirable as the manual version, still offers a comfortable and convenient driving experience. The Renault 21 represents a significant step forward in Renault’s design and engineering, and the 2.0i Automatic variant remains a testament to the brand’s commitment to providing practical and comfortable transportation for families.
