The Renault Safrane I (B54), particularly the facelifted version introduced in 1996, represents a significant effort by Renault to compete in the upper-midsize car segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Safrane was a popular and well-regarded vehicle in Europe, positioned as a more comfortable and luxurious alternative to mainstream offerings like the Ford Mondeo or Vauxhall/Opel Vectra. The 1996 facelift brought styling updates and refinements, solidifying its position as a sophisticated family car. This article focuses on the 2.5 20V (B54F) variant, equipped with a 165 horsepower engine and automatic transmission, produced between 1996 and 2000.
Renault Safrane I (B54F): A Detailed Overview
The Safrane was Renault’s attempt to move upmarket and offer a vehicle that could genuinely challenge established premium brands. It replaced the Renault 25, aiming for a more modern and refined experience. The B54 facelift, launched in 1996, addressed some criticisms of the original design and improved the car’s overall appeal. The 2.5 20V model, with its five-cylinder engine, was a key part of the Safrane lineup, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency for European drivers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Safrane 2.5 20V (B54F) is Renault’s N7U 701 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine. This naturally aspirated powerplant produces 165 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 211 Nm (155.63 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4600 rpm. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. This configuration contributes to a respectable power output of 67.8 horsepower per liter. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a four-speed automatic transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.2 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.7 seconds. The Safrane 2.5 20V achieves a maximum speed of 215 km/h (133.59 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 9.1 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 7.1 kg/Nm indicate a reasonably efficient powertrain for its time.
Design & Features
The Renault Safrane I (B54) is a five-door hatchback, offering a practical and spacious interior. The hatchback configuration provides excellent cargo versatility, with a minimum trunk capacity of 455 liters (16.07 cu. ft.) expanding to a substantial 1360 liters (48.03 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The car’s design, particularly after the 1996 facelift, is characterized by smooth lines and a relatively understated elegance. Inside, the Safrane focused on providing a comfortable and well-equipped cabin. While specific features varied depending on trim level, common amenities included power windows, central locking, and comfortable seating for five passengers. Safety features for the era included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Safrane’s suspension utilizes a wishbone setup at the front and a spring strut arrangement at the rear, aiming to provide a comfortable ride quality. Hydraulic power steering contributes to ease of maneuverability.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Safrane |
| Generation | Safrane I (B54, facelift 1996) |
| Type | 2.5 20V (B54F) (165 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1996 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.3 l/100 km (15.4 US mpg / 18.5 UK mpg / 6.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 8.2 l/100 km (28.7 US mpg / 34.4 UK mpg / 12.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 67.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 211 Nm @ 4600 rpm (155.63 lb.-ft. @ 4600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | N7U 701 |
| Engine displacement | 2435 cm3 (148.59 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.5 l (8.98 US qt | 7.48 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1495 kg (3295.91 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2080 kg (4585.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 585 kg (1289.7 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 455 l (16.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1360 l (48.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 80 l (21.13 US gal | 17.6 UK gal) |
| Length | 4768 mm (187.72 in.) |
| Width | 1816 mm (71.5 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2766 mm (108.9 in.) |
| Front track | 1530 mm (60.24 in.) |
| Rear track | 1487 mm (58.54 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Wishbone |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Safrane I (B54F) 2.5 20V, while never officially available in the US market, remains a noteworthy example of European automotive engineering from the late 1990s. It offered a compelling blend of comfort, practicality, and performance, making it a popular choice for families and individuals seeking a refined and spacious vehicle.
