The Renault Grand Modus 1.6 16V ESP Automatic, produced between 2008 and 2012, represented a mid-cycle refresh of Renault’s compact multi-purpose vehicle (MPV), the Modus. This variant, part of the Phase II update (internally designated as the K9K series), aimed to offer a balance of practicality, affordability, and ease of use within the European small family car segment. The Grand Modus, an extended version of the original Modus, provided increased rear passenger space and cargo capacity, making it a popular choice for small families. The 1.6 16V engine paired with an automatic transmission was positioned as a convenient, if not particularly sporty, option within the Modus lineup, appealing to buyers prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Modus |
| Generation | Grand Modus (Phase II, 2008) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (112 Hp) ESP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.2 l/100 km (23.1 US mpg, 27.7 UK mpg, 9.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 179 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 90.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.2 kg/Nm, 122.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 112 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 151 Nm @ 4250 rpm (111.37 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.1 l (5.39 US qt | 4.49 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt | 5.1 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1235 kg (2722.71 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1722 kg (3796.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 487 kg (1073.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 305 l (10.77 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1454 l (51.35 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 51 l (13.47 US gal | 11.22 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 900 kg (1984.16 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4034 mm (158.82 in.) |
| Width | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1589 mm (62.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2575 mm (101.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Front overhang | 802 mm (31.57 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 657 mm (25.87 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/65 R15; 185/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
INTRODUCTION
The Renault Grand Modus 1.6 16V ESP Automatic, launched in 2008 as part of the Phase II refresh, built upon the foundation of the original Modus, offering increased practicality and space. The Grand Modus, based on the Renault-Nissan B platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), aimed to bridge the gap between traditional hatchbacks and compact MPVs. This particular variant, equipped with the K4M 1.6-liter engine and a four-speed automatic transmission, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a comfortable and convenient driving experience, prioritizing ease of use over sporty performance. It occupied a middle ground in the Modus lineup, offering more power than the base 1.4-liter engine but lacking the performance of the diesel options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Grand Modus 1.6 16V Automatic is the K4M engine, a 1598cc inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine, a staple in Renault’s lineup for many years, features a cast iron block and aluminum cylinder head. It utilizes a multi-point fuel injection system, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The 16-valve configuration (four valves per cylinder) contributes to improved breathing and power output. The engine produces 112 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 151 Nm (111.37 lb-ft) of torque at 4250 rpm. Paired with this engine is a four-speed automatic transmission, offering smooth gear changes but lacking the efficiency of more modern transmissions. This transmission was chosen for its simplicity and reliability, rather than for performance. The K4M engine is known for its relatively straightforward design, making it reasonably easy to maintain.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 16V Automatic Grand Modus delivers a comfortable, if uninspiring, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.9 seconds, and top speed is approximately 114 mph. The four-speed automatic transmission, while providing convenience, results in noticeable gear changes and doesn’t allow the engine to operate at its most efficient rpm. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.6, the automatic suffers a slight performance penalty and reduced fuel economy. The power delivery is linear, but the engine lacks the punch of more powerful alternatives. The focus is on smooth cruising and ease of driving in urban environments. The relatively soft suspension setup contributes to a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Grand Modus 1.6 16V ESP Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard equipment. Features included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, and a CD player with radio. The “ESP” in the name denotes the inclusion of Electronic Stability Program, a crucial safety feature. Higher trim levels offered options such as alloy wheels, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior upholstery. Interior materials were generally durable but not luxurious, reflecting the car’s budget-friendly positioning. The Grand Modus’s modular interior, with sliding rear seats, was a key selling point, allowing for flexible cargo space configurations.
Chassis & Braking
The Grand Modus utilizes a McPherson strut front suspension and a semi-independent coil spring rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while rear brakes are drums. The inclusion of ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) enhances safety during emergency braking situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system, providing reasonably precise control. The car’s relatively high center of gravity, typical of MPVs, contributes to some body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault Grand Modus 1.6 16V Automatic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its practicality, spacious interior, and comfortable ride, but criticized its uninspiring performance and somewhat dated automatic transmission. Compared to the 1.4-liter version, the 1.6 offered a noticeable improvement in power and drivability, making it more suitable for longer journeys and carrying a full load of passengers. However, the diesel-powered Modus variants offered significantly better fuel economy and torque, appealing to buyers prioritizing efficiency. The Grand Modus competed with other small MPVs such as the Opel/Vauxhall Meriva and the Citroën C3 Picasso.
Legacy
The Renault Grand Modus 1.6 16V Automatic, while not a standout performer, proved to be a reliable and practical family car. The K4M engine is known for its durability, and with regular maintenance, can provide many years of service. On the used car market, these models are generally affordable and represent good value for money. However, potential buyers should be aware of the age-related issues common to older vehicles, such as wear and tear on suspension components and potential for corrosion. The four-speed automatic transmission, while reliable, is less efficient than more modern alternatives. Overall, the Grand Modus 1.6 16V Automatic remains a sensible choice for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and affordable MPV.
