The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 2.0 i 16V Automatic, produced between 2003 and 2006, 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 officially sold in the United States, the Scenic series was a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran and Opel Zafira. The Phase I models, like the 2.0i 16V, established the Scenic II as a benchmark for its class, offering a blend of comfort, efficiency, and innovative design.
Renault Scenic II (Phase I): A Detailed Overview
The Scenic II built upon the success of its predecessor, offering increased interior space and improved build quality. It was designed to appeal to families seeking a versatile vehicle for everyday use, weekend trips, and school runs. The Phase I models, launched in 2003, featured a distinctive exterior design and a range of engine options, including the 2.0-liter inline-four petrol engine discussed here. This engine was paired with a four-speed automatic transmission, providing a comfortable and convenient driving experience.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic II 2.0 i 16V is a 1998 cc (121.93 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This naturally aspirated engine produces 135 horsepower (Hp) at 5500 rpm and 191 Newton-meters (140.87 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributes to a respectable power output of 67.6 Hp per liter.
Performance figures indicate a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.5 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 10.9 seconds. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 8.6 liters per 100 kilometers (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg), with combined cycle CO2 emissions of 205 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards. The engine’s weight-to-power ratio is 10.4 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.4 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate five passengers. Its body style prioritizes practicality and interior space. Key design features include a relatively high roofline, large windows for good visibility, and a versatile interior layout. The rear seats can be folded down or removed entirely, creating a substantial cargo area.
The Phase I models offered a range of features aimed at enhancing comfort and convenience. Standard equipment typically included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system. Safety features, crucial for a family vehicle, included Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Scenic II’s interior was designed with family needs in mind, featuring numerous storage compartments and a modular seating system. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 430 liters (15.19 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1840 liters (64.98 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic II (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 16V (135 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.9 l/100 km (19.8 US mpg, 23.7 UK mpg, 8.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.7 l/100 km (35.1 US mpg, 42.2 UK mpg, 14.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 205 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 191 Nm @ 3750 rpm (140.87 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F4R |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.7 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1985 kg (4376.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 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%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 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 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 | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic 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 |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 2.0 i 16V Automatic remains a noteworthy vehicle in the compact minivan segment. Its blend of practicality, comfort, and reasonable performance made it a popular choice for families in Europe. While not available in the US market, it represents a significant example of European automotive design and engineering focused on meeting the needs of modern families.
