The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dCi, produced from 2000 to 2003, represents a significant evolution in the compact minivan segment. As Renault’s entry into the burgeoning multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) market, the Scenic aimed to provide a practical and versatile alternative to traditional hatchbacks and estates. The Phase II update brought refinements to the original Scenic, enhancing its appeal with updated styling, improved interior materials, and, crucially, more efficient engine options. While not initially sold in the United States, the Scenic became a popular choice in Europe, known for its innovative design and family-friendly features. This model, specifically the 1.9 dCi variant with 102 horsepower, offered a compelling blend of fuel economy and performance for European drivers.
Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dCi: A Detailed Overview
The Scenic I Phase II was designed to address the needs of modern families, prioritizing interior space, modularity, and practicality. It distinguished itself from competitors with its distinctive styling and a focus on user-friendly features. The Phase II revisions included subtle cosmetic changes to the exterior, such as revised headlights and bumpers, and improvements to the interior trim and equipment levels. The 1.9 dCi engine was a key component of the Scenic’s appeal, offering a balance between power and fuel efficiency that resonated with European consumers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dCi is its 1870cc inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the F9Q. This engine produces 102 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1500 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to its relatively high output and improved fuel economy. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 13.4 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 6.8 kg/Nm. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.8 seconds and a top speed of 173 km/h (107.5 mph). A 0-60 mph time is calculated at 12.2 seconds. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission. The 1.9 dCi engine was favored for its responsiveness and relatively quiet operation compared to some of its contemporaries.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) is a five-door minivan with a seating capacity of five. Its body style is characterized by a tall, upright stance and a relatively short wheelbase, maximizing interior space. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, featuring a modular seating system that allows for flexible cargo configurations. Rear seats can be folded down or even removed entirely to create a larger load area. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 410 liters (14.48 cu. ft.), expanding to a substantial 1800 liters (63.57 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The steering is rack and pinion with hydraulic power assistance. The vehicle rides on 15-inch wheels with 185/65 R 15 tires. The overall design prioritized functionality and ease of use, making it a popular choice for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic I (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 dCi (102 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1500 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F9Q |
| Engine displacement | 1870 cm3 (114.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 19:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4169 mm (164.13 in.) |
| Width | 1719 mm (67.68 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2564 mm (100.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R 15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dCi remains a noteworthy vehicle in the history of compact MPVs. Its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and innovative design helped establish Renault as a key player in the European family car market. While never officially offered in the United States, the Scenic’s influence can be seen in the subsequent development of similar vehicles sold in North America.
