The Renault Grand Scenic IV, specifically the Phase I 1.7 Blue dCi variant introduced in September 2018, represents Renault’s offering in the increasingly competitive compact minivan (or multi-purpose vehicle – MPV) segment. Positioned as a practical and family-oriented vehicle, the Grand Scenic IV aimed to provide a spacious and versatile interior, coupled with reasonable fuel efficiency. This model, while not officially sold in the United States, was a significant player in the European market, competing with vehicles like the Citroën Grand C4 Picasso and Volkswagen Touran. The “Grand” designation signifies its seven-seat configuration, differentiating it from the standard five-seat Scenic IV.
Renault Grand Scenic IV: Overview and Market Position
The fourth generation of the Scenic, launched in 2016 (with the Grand Scenic following in 2018), marked a significant departure from its predecessors in terms of styling and technology. Renault aimed for a more crossover-inspired aesthetic, moving away from the traditional MPV boxiness. The Phase I models, produced until October 2020, established the core features and engine options for the range. The 1.7 Blue dCi engine, producing 150 horsepower, was a popular choice in Europe, balancing performance with fuel economy and meeting stringent emissions standards.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Grand Scenic IV 1.7 Blue dCi is powered by the R9N engine, a 1.7-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine delivers 150 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to both power output and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the engine provides adequate power for everyday driving and long-distance journeys, particularly when fully loaded with passengers and luggage. The engine’s fuel consumption is rated at 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg), and CO2 emissions are 127 g/km, placing it within Euro 6 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Grand Scenic IV boasts a modern and dynamic exterior design, characterized by its sculpted lines and prominent front grille. Its minivan body style prioritizes interior space and practicality. The five-door configuration provides easy access to all seating positions. The key feature of the Grand Scenic is its seven-seat layout, offering flexibility for families or those needing to transport extra passengers. The interior is designed with a focus on comfort and functionality, featuring a user-friendly infotainment system and a range of storage compartments. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system. The Phase I models also included features like automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control, enhancing driver assistance and safety. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4634 mm (182.44 in) in length, 1866 mm (73.46 in) in width, and 1655-1660 mm (65.16 – 65.35 in) in height – provide a spacious cabin without being overly cumbersome to maneuver.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Grand Scenic IV (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 Blue dCi (150 Hp) 7 Seat |
| Start of production | September, 2018 |
| End of production | October, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 127 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp, 85.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.2 kg/Nm, 193.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R9N |
| Engine displacement | 1749 cm3 (106.73 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1754 kg (3866.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2367 kg (5218.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 613 kg (1351.43 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 189 l (6.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 53 l (14 US gal | 11.66 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 17 l (4.49 US gal | 3.74 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4634 mm (182.44 in.) |
| Width | 1866 mm (73.46 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2128 mm (83.78 in.) |
| Height | 1655-1660 mm (65.16 – 65.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2804 mm (110.39 in.) |
| Front track | 1602 mm (63.07 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1596 mm (62.83 in.) |
| Front overhang | 931 mm (36.65 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 899 mm (35.39 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 117 mm (4.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.39 m (37.37 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 320 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 290 mm |
| Tires size | 195/55 R20 |
| Wheel rims size | 20 |
The Renault Grand Scenic IV Phase I 1.7 Blue dCi offered a compelling package for European families seeking a spacious, efficient, and well-equipped minivan. While not available in the US market, it represents a significant example of Renault’s design and engineering capabilities within the MPV segment.
