1992-1996 Renault Safrane I (B54) 2.2 (B541) (107 Hp)

The Renault Safrane I (B54), produced between 1992 and 1996, was a large family car marketed primarily in Europe. Positioned above the Renault 25, the Safrane aimed to offer a more comfortable and technologically advanced alternative within the executive car segment. While never officially sold in the United States, the Safrane represented Renault’s attempt to compete with established German and British marques like the Ford Granada, Opel/Vauxhall Senator, and Rover 800. The 2.2-liter (B541) variant, producing 107 horsepower, was a common engine choice, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy for the time. The Safrane was notable for its spacious interior, innovative features, and distinctive styling, setting it apart from its competitors.

Renault Safrane I (B54): An Overview

The Safrane was a significant model for Renault, representing a move upmarket in terms of design, technology, and perceived quality. It was a five-door hatchback, a body style becoming increasingly popular in Europe, offering practicality alongside a more sophisticated image than traditional saloons. The car was designed to appeal to families and business users seeking a comfortable and well-equipped vehicle. The first generation, designated B54, underwent several revisions during its production run, including updates to the interior, exterior styling, and engine options. The 2.2-liter engine, detailed here, was a mainstay of the range, providing adequate performance for everyday driving.

Engine & Performance

The Renault Safrane I (B54) 2.2 (B541) is powered by a naturally aspirated, inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated J7T. Displacing 2.2 liters (2165 cm³ or 132.12 cu. in.), this engine produces 107 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 175 Nm (129.07 lb.-ft.) of torque at the same engine speed. This translates to a power-to-liter ratio of 49.4 hp/l. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.9 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.3 seconds. The Safrane 2.2 has a top speed of 189 km/h (117.44 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 12.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.9 kg/Nm. The engine requires 6.1 liters (6.45 US qt | 5.37 UK qt) of engine oil and 7 liters (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) of coolant for optimal operation.

Design & Features

The Renault Safrane I (B54) features a distinctive hatchback body style, offering a large and practical cargo area. The car seats five passengers comfortably and provides ample space for both occupants and luggage. The exterior design, penned by Jean-Pierre Ploué, was considered modern and elegant for its time, with clean lines and a relatively understated appearance. Key features of the Safrane included power steering (hydraulic), ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear axle. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was also available, enhancing safety. The suspension system utilizes a wishbone configuration at the front and a spring strut setup at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. The Safrane’s interior was well-appointed, with a focus on comfort and practicality. The dashboard layout was functional and easy to use, and the seats were designed for long-distance travel. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 480 liters (16.95 cu. ft.).

Technical Specifications