The Renault Modus, particularly the Phase II iteration produced between 2008 and 2012, represents Renault’s entry into the compact mini MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Modus was a popular choice in Europe, offering a practical and versatile solution for small families and urban drivers. Positioned below the larger Renault Scenic, the Modus focused on maximizing interior space within a relatively small footprint, emphasizing functionality and fuel efficiency. The 1.5 dCi (68 Hp) version, detailed here, was a common engine choice, prioritizing economy over outright performance.
Renault Modus (Phase II) 1.5 dCi: An Overview
The Modus Phase II benefited from a mid-life refresh, incorporating styling updates and improvements to the interior. It continued Renault’s tradition of innovative packaging, offering features like a sliding rear seat – a key element of its versatility. The 1.5 dCi engine, a mainstay of Renault’s diesel lineup, provided a balance between acceptable performance and excellent fuel economy, making it well-suited to the demands of European driving conditions. This model aimed to provide a cost-effective and practical transportation solution for those needing a small, adaptable vehicle.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Modus 1.5 dCi (68 Hp) is powered by the K9K Turbo engine, a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel. This engine, displacing 1461 cm³ (89.16 cu. in.), produces 68 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1700 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance efficiency and power delivery. While not a performance-oriented engine, the 1.5 dCi provides adequate power for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.3 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 14.5 seconds. The Modus 1.5 dCi reaches a top speed of 158 km/h (98.18 mph). The engine’s design prioritizes fuel economy, achieving combined fuel consumption of 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) and CO2 emissions of 125 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Renault Modus Phase II is a five-door hatchback designed to maximize interior space. Its compact dimensions – 3874 mm (152.52 in) in length and 1709 mm (67.28 in) in width – make it easy to maneuver in urban environments. A key design feature is the sliding rear seat, allowing owners to prioritize either rear passenger legroom or increased cargo capacity. The trunk offers 217 liters (7.66 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to a substantial 1302 liters (45.98 cu. ft.) when folded. Safety features for this era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. The interior, while functional, focused on durability and practicality rather than luxury. The Modus aimed to be a sensible and adaptable vehicle for everyday use, prioritizing space and efficiency over stylistic flourishes.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Modus |
| Generation | Modus (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (68 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 158 km/h (98.18 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.4 kg/Hp |
| Power | 68 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 1700 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 1700 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K Turbo |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1180 kg (2601.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1670 kg (3681.72 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 217 l (7.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1302 l (45.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 49 l (12.94 US gal | 10.78 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 850 kg (1873.93 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 3874 mm (152.52 in.) |
| Width | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1589 mm (62.56 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2482 mm (97.72 in.) |
| Front track | 1472 mm (57.95 in.) |
| Rear track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.4 m (34.12 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 165/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
