2013-2015 Dacia Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 Hp)

The Dacia Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 hp) is a station wagon variant of the second-generation Dacia Logan, produced between 2013 and 2015. Positioned as an entry-level offering within the MCV (Multi-Capacity Vehicle) lineup, it aimed to provide affordable and practical transportation for families and businesses. The Logan II MCV, and this 1.2L variant specifically, represented Dacia’s continued commitment to offering value-oriented vehicles, particularly in European markets where the station wagon body style remained popular. It built upon the foundation of the original Logan, addressing some of its criticisms while maintaining its core principles of simplicity and affordability.

Technical Specifications

INTRODUCTION

The Dacia Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 hp) was introduced as part of the facelifted second-generation Logan range in 2013. The MCV (Multi Capacity Vehicle) designation signified Dacia’s focus on providing a practical and spacious estate car. This particular variant, powered by the 1.2-liter engine, served as the entry point into the MCV lineup, targeting budget-conscious buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and practicality over outright performance. It was primarily sold in European markets, where the demand for affordable station wagons remained strong. The Logan II MCV is based on the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other Renault-Nissan vehicles.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

The heart of the Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 hp) is the D4F 732 engine, a 1.149-liter inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine is part of Renault’s D4F family, known for its simplicity and reliability. It features a multi-point fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine produces 75 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 107 Nm (78.92 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine is naturally aspirated, meaning it doesn’t utilize a turbocharger or supercharger. Paired with the engine is a five-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this variant. The transmission is designed for durability and ease of maintenance, rather than sporty performance.

Driving Characteristics

The 1.2-liter engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 14.5 seconds, and the top speed is around 156 km/h (96.93 mph). The power delivery is relatively linear, but the engine feels strained when pushed hard, particularly when fully loaded. The gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy rather than rapid acceleration. Compared to higher-output versions of the Logan II MCV, such as those equipped with the 0.9 TCe turbocharged engine, the 1.2-liter variant feels significantly less powerful. However, it offers a smoother and more predictable driving experience, especially in urban environments. The manual transmission provides a reasonable level of control, but the shift quality is not as refined as in more expensive vehicles.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 hp) typically came with a basic level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. The interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a simple, functional design. Optional extras included air conditioning, a radio with CD player, and power-adjustable door mirrors. Higher trim levels, available with more powerful engines, offered additional features such as alloy wheels, rear electric windows, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. The focus was on providing essential features at an affordable price point.

Chassis & Braking

The Logan II MCV features a McPherson strut independent suspension at the front and an elastic beam suspension at the rear. This setup provides a comfortable ride quality, although it’s not particularly sporty. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are drums. The braking system is adequate for everyday use, but it lacks the stopping power of more advanced braking systems. The steering is hydraulic, providing a reasonably direct feel. The suspension is tuned for comfort and practicality, prioritizing ride quality over handling precision. The vehicle’s relatively light weight helps to compensate for the modest engine power.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Dacia Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 hp) was generally well-received by critics for its affordability and practicality. It was praised for its spacious interior, large boot capacity, and low running costs. However, it was also criticized for its lack of refinement and modest performance. Compared to other trims in the Logan II MCV lineup, the 1.2-liter variant offered the lowest price point but also the least amount of power. The 0.9 TCe turbocharged engine provided a significant performance boost, but at a higher cost. In terms of fuel economy, the 1.2-liter engine offered competitive figures, averaging around 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg). Reliability was generally good, with the D4F engine proving to be a durable and dependable unit.

Legacy

The Dacia Logan II MCV 1.2 (75 hp) remains a popular choice in the used car market, particularly among buyers seeking an affordable and practical estate car. The D4F engine is known for its reliability and relatively low maintenance costs. While it may not offer the performance or refinement of more expensive vehicles, it provides a dependable and economical means of transportation. The Logan II MCV, in general, helped to establish Dacia as a major player in the European automotive market, demonstrating that it was possible to build a well-equipped and reliable car at a very affordable price. The simplicity of the design and the readily available parts contribute to its continued appeal in the used car sector.