2003-2005 Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.5 dCi (82 Hp)

The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.5 dCi, produced between 2003 and 2005, represents a significant evolution in the compact minivan segment. As a successor to the original Scenic, this generation aimed to refine the formula of spaciousness, practicality, and family-focused features. While not initially sold in the United States, the Scenic series has been a popular choice in Europe, known for its innovative design and versatility. The 1.5 dCi variant, equipped with an 82 horsepower diesel engine, was a key offering, prioritizing fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for everyday use. This model catered to buyers seeking a practical and economical vehicle for family transport.

Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.5 dCi: An Overview

The Scenic II (Phase I) was Renault’s second attempt at a dedicated compact minivan, building upon the success of the first generation. It was designed to compete with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran, Opel Zafira, and Citroën Xsara Picasso. The Phase I designation refers to the initial production run, which underwent minor revisions in later years (Phase II). The 1.5 dCi engine was a cornerstone of the Scenic II lineup, offering a balance between fuel economy and acceptable performance for the European market, where diesel engines are prevalent. The vehicle’s focus was on providing a comfortable and functional space for families, with a strong emphasis on interior flexibility and storage solutions.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Scenic II 1.5 dCi is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K. This engine produces 82 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 185 Nm (136.45 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. A diesel commonrail fuel injection system ensures precise fuel delivery, contributing to improved combustion and reduced emissions. The engine’s relatively modest power output results in a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 15.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 14.9 seconds. Maximum speed is rated at 165 km/h (102.53 mph). Despite these figures not being particularly sporty, the engine prioritizes fuel economy, achieving combined fuel consumption of 5 liters per 100 kilometers (47 US mpg or 56.5 UK mpg) and CO2 emissions of 135 g/km, meeting Euro 3 emission standards. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.

Design & Features

The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate five passengers. Its body style emphasizes practicality and space efficiency. Key design features include a relatively high roofline, large windows for good visibility, and a short front and rear overhang, maximizing interior space. The interior is characterized by its modularity, with individually adjustable and removable rear seats, allowing for a variety of seating configurations and cargo space options. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 430 liters (15.19 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to a maximum of 1840 liters (64.98 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features for the period included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The vehicle’s design aimed to create a comfortable and versatile environment for families, with a focus on ease of use and practicality. The dashboard layout is functional, with logically placed controls and ample storage compartments.

Technical Specifications