The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) 2.0 i 16V, produced between 2003 and 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 series was a popular choice in Europe, offering a compelling alternative to traditional hatchbacks and small SUVs. The Phase I models, like the 2.0i 16V, established the Scenic II as a benchmark for its class, known for its innovative design and comfortable driving experience.
Renault Scenic II (Phase I): A Detailed Overview
The Scenic II built upon the success of its predecessor, offering increased interior space, improved safety features, and a more refined driving experience. It was positioned as a versatile vehicle for families, prioritizing passenger comfort and cargo capacity. The 2.0 i 16V variant, equipped with a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter inline-four engine, provided a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice within the Scenic II lineup. This model was a key player in Renault’s strategy to dominate the European MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) market.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Scenic II 2.0 i 16V lies the F4R engine, a 1998 cc (121.93 cu. in.) inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine produces 135 horsepower (Hp) at 5500 rpm and 191 Newton-meters (140.87 lb.-ft.) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine’s configuration features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its responsive nature. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 10.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 9.8 seconds. The vehicle boasts a maximum speed of 195 km/h (121.17 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 10.4 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 7.3 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonably efficient powertrain for its time. Fuel economy figures are rated at 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg) in urban conditions, 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle, and 8.0 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) combined. CO2 emissions are rated at 192 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic II (Phase I) is a five-door minivan designed to maximize interior space and practicality. It comfortably seats five passengers and offers a versatile cargo area. The exterior design is characterized by its rounded lines and relatively compact dimensions for a vehicle of its class, measuring 4259 mm (167.68 in.) in length and 1810 mm (71.26 in.) in width. A key feature of the Scenic II is its modular interior, allowing for flexible seating configurations and a generous cargo capacity ranging from 430 liters (15.19 cu. ft.) with all seats in place to 1840 liters (64.98 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs). Other notable dimensions include a wheelbase of 2685 mm (105.71 in.) and a ride height of 130 mm (5.12 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic II (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 16V (135 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2003 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.9 l/100 km (21.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 135 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 191 Nm @ 3750 rpm (140.87 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F4R |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82.7 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 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, 300 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 270 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
