The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.5 dCi, produced from 2005 to 2006, represents a significant evolution in the compact minivan segment. As a successor to the original Scenic, this generation aimed to refine the formula of spaciousness, practicality, and family-focused features. While not officially sold in the United States, the Scenic has been a popular choice in Europe, particularly for its innovative design and efficient engine options. The Phase I models, like the 1.5 dCi variant, established the Scenic II as a strong competitor against vehicles like the Citroën Picasso and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira.
Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.5 dCi: An Overview
The Scenic II, and specifically the 1.5 dCi model, was designed to appeal to families seeking a versatile and comfortable vehicle. It offered a five-seat configuration with a focus on maximizing interior space and providing a practical solution for everyday transportation. The Phase I models were characterized by their distinctive styling, featuring a rounded silhouette and a spacious interior. The 1.5 dCi engine was a key component of the Scenic II’s appeal, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance for typical driving conditions.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic II 1.5 dCi is a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the K9K. This engine produces 106 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 240 Nm (177.01 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The engine’s power-to-liter ratio is 72.6 hp/l. This powertrain configuration allows for a respectable 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 12.4 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 11.8 seconds, with a maximum speed of 178 km/h (110.6 mph). The front-wheel-drive layout, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, contributes to the vehicle’s overall efficiency and drivability. The weight-to-power ratio is 12.9 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 5.7 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic II Phase I is a five-door minivan designed with practicality and family needs in mind. Its body style emphasizes interior space and ease of access. Key features include a spacious cabin, a flexible seating arrangement, and a large trunk (boot) capacity. The trunk offers 430 liters (15.19 cu. ft.) of space with the rear seats up, expanding to a substantial 1840 liters (64.98 cu. ft.) when the seats are folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4259 mm (167.68 in.) in length, 1810 mm (71.26 in.) in width, and 1620 mm (63.78 in.) in height. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The suspension system consists of an independent McPherson strut setup at the front and an elastic beam arrangement at the rear, providing a comfortable ride. The steering utilizes a rack and pinion system. Standard tire sizes were 195/65 R15 and 205/55 R16, mounted on 15 or 16-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic II (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (106 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 138 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 178 km/h (110.6 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.9 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 106 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 240 Nm @ 2000 rpm (177.01 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1945 kg (4287.99 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 430 l (15.19 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1840 l (64.98 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4259 mm (167.68 in.) |
| Width | 1810 mm (71.26 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2087 mm (82.17 in.) |
| Height | 1620 mm (63.78 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 851 mm (33.5 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 723 mm (28.46 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.7 m (35.1 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 280 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 270 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15; 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 15; 16 |
The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 1.5 dCi offered a compelling package for European families, combining practicality, efficiency, and a comfortable driving experience. While not available in the US market, it remains a notable example of Renault’s commitment to innovative and versatile vehicle design.
