The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dTi (JA0N), produced between 1999 and 2000, represents a significant evolution in the compact minivan segment. As Renault’s first foray into the leisure activity vehicle (LAV) market – a category it largely defined in Europe – the Scenic offered a practical and versatile alternative to traditional hatchbacks and estates. While not officially sold in the United States, the Scenic I was a popular choice for families in Europe, known for its innovative interior packaging and comfortable ride. The Phase II update brought refinements to the original design, including updated engines and improved interior trim.
Renault Scenic I (Phase II): A European Compact Minivan
The Scenic I, and specifically the 1.9 dTi variant, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a vehicle that could comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo while remaining relatively compact and easy to maneuver. It distinguished itself from competitors with features like modular seating and a spacious interior, making it a practical choice for everyday use and family adventures. The 1.9 dTi model offered a balance between fuel efficiency and reasonable performance, making it a popular choice within the Scenic lineup.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic I 1.9 dTi is Renault’s F9Q 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine, designated JA0N, produces 98 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger to enhance power and efficiency. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 1.9 dTi provides adequate power for everyday driving and highway cruising. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.8 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.1 seconds. The top speed is rated at 175 km/h (108.74 mph). The engine’s relatively high compression ratio of 18.3:1 contributes to its fuel efficiency. Fuel economy figures are respectable for a vehicle of its type, achieving approximately 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers (37.9 US mpg) on a combined cycle.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic I Phase II is a five-door minivan with a practical and functional design. Its compact dimensions – 4168 mm (164.09 in) in length and 1719 mm (67.68 in) in width – make it easy to navigate in urban environments. The interior is a key strength of the Scenic, offering a spacious and versatile cabin. The rear seats can be folded down or even removed completely, providing a maximum cargo capacity of 1800 liters (63.57 cu. ft.). Standard features included power steering, disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear, and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. The suspension consists of a spring strut setup at the front and an independent torsion beam at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. The 1.9 dTi model typically came equipped with 14-inch wheels and 185/70 R14 tires. The interior design prioritized practicality and user-friendliness, with a focus on maximizing space and providing convenient storage solutions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic I (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 dTi (JA0N) (98 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2000 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 98 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F9Q |
| Engine displacement | 1870 cm3 (114.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1325 kg (2921.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1865 kg (4111.62 lbs.) |
| Max load | 540 kg (1190.5 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4168 mm (164.09 in.) |
| Width | 1719 mm (67.68 in.) |
| Height | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | independent torsion suspension |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/70 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dTi, while not a vehicle commonly found in the US market, played a crucial role in establishing the compact minivan segment in Europe. Its blend of practicality, versatility, and fuel efficiency made it a popular choice for families, and its innovative features helped to define the category for years to come.
