The Renault Modus (Phase II) 1.5 dCi (86 Hp) FAP is a subcompact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), produced by the French manufacturer Renault from 2008 to 2012. Positioned as a practical and versatile option, the Modus aimed to provide a spacious interior and innovative features within a relatively small footprint. While not officially sold in the United States, the Modus was a significant model in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Opel Meriva and Fiat Idea. The Phase II update brought styling revisions and improvements to the engine range, focusing on fuel efficiency and reduced emissions.
Renault Modus (Phase II): An Overview
The Modus, particularly the Phase II iteration, represented Renault’s attempt to cater to the growing demand for small, family-oriented vehicles in Europe. Its key selling points were its modular interior, offering a variety of seating configurations, and its relatively compact dimensions, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. The 1.5 dCi engine variant, equipped with a Diesel Particulate Filter (FAP), was a popular choice due to its balance of performance and fuel economy. The Modus was designed to be a practical and affordable vehicle, prioritizing functionality over outright luxury.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Modus (Phase II) 1.5 dCi (86 Hp) FAP is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K Turbo. This engine produces 86 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2250 rpm. The engine features a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The diesel commonrail fuel injection system contributes to smooth power delivery and reduced emissions. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 13.3 seconds and a maximum speed of 172 km/h (106.88 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 17.9:1 is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their efficiency. The weight-to-power ratio is 14 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.5 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Modus (Phase II) is a five-door hatchback with a distinctive, somewhat rounded design. The Phase II update included minor cosmetic changes to the front and rear fascias, as well as interior trim updates. A key feature of the Modus is its modular interior, which allows for a variety of seating configurations. The rear seats can be folded, removed, or slid forward to maximize cargo space. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 217 liters (7.66 cu. ft.) and a maximum capacity of 1302 liters (45.98 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The Modus aimed to provide a comfortable and practical interior, with a focus on maximizing space and versatility. The vehicle’s dimensions are 3874 mm (152.52 in.) in length, 1709 mm (67.28 in.) in width, and 1589 mm (62.56 in.) in height. The wheelbase is 2482 mm (97.72 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Modus |
| Generation | Modus (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (86 Hp) FAP |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 172 km/h (106.88 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 86 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 2250 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K Turbo |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1200 kg (2645.55 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1690 kg (3725.81 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 217 l (7.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1302 l (45.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 49 l (12.94 US gal | 10.78 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 3874 mm (152.52 in.) |
| Width | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1589 mm (62.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2482 mm (97.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 802 mm (31.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 590 mm (23.23 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| 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 |
| Tires size | 165/65 R15; 185/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The Renault Modus (Phase II) 1.5 dCi (86 Hp) FAP, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of practicality, fuel efficiency, and versatility for European buyers seeking a small family car. Its modular interior and economical diesel engine made it a popular choice in its segment.
