The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.9 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 was a cornerstone of Renault’s European lineup, consistently ranking among the best-selling vehicles in its class. The Phase I models, like the 1.9 dCi variant, established the design language and technological features that would define the Scenic II throughout its production run. This model offered a diesel engine option, catering to European preferences for fuel efficiency and torque.
Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.9 dCi: An Overview
The Scenic II, and specifically the 1.9 dCi version, was designed to appeal to families seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle. It offered a five-seat configuration and a flexible interior layout, prioritizing passenger space and cargo capacity. The Phase I models were characterized by their distinctive styling, featuring a rounded silhouette and a focus on maximizing interior volume. The 1.9 dCi engine provided a balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice for long-distance travel and everyday commuting. The Scenic II competed with other European compact minivans such as the Citroën Xsara Picasso and the Opel/Vauxhall Zafira.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic II 1.9 dCi is its 1870cc inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the F9Q. This engine produces 120 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 300 Nm (221.27 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance power output and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a Diesel Commonrail injection system, contributing to refined operation and reduced emissions. The engine’s output translates to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.1 seconds, and a top speed of 188 km/h (116.82 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 19:1 is typical for diesel engines, maximizing combustion efficiency. The 1.9 dCi engine was known for its durability and relatively low running costs, making it a practical choice for European drivers.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic II Phase I is a five-door minivan, designed with a focus on maximizing interior space and practicality. Its rounded exterior styling was a departure from the more angular designs of its predecessor. Key features included a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers, a versatile interior layout with folding rear seats, and a large trunk (boot) offering between 430 and 1840 liters of cargo space depending on the rear seat configuration. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The dashboard layout was designed for ease of use, with logically placed controls and a clear instrument cluster. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4259 mm in length, 1810 mm in width, and 1620 mm in height – positioned it squarely within the compact minivan segment. The electric power steering provided light and responsive handling.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic II (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 dCi (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000 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, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1430 kg (3152.61 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2010 kg (4431.29 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1840 l (64.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4259 mm (167.68 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2087 mm (82.17 in.) |
| Height | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 723 mm (28.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 270 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
