The Renault Symbol III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, represents a significant offering in the subcompact sedan segment, primarily targeted towards markets outside of North America and Western Europe. While not officially sold in the United States, the Symbol (also known as the Thalia in some regions) has been a popular choice in countries like Turkey, Morocco, and other parts of Eastern Europe, North Africa, and Latin America. Positioned as an affordable and practical vehicle, the Symbol III offers a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable space, and essential features, catering to budget-conscious buyers. The 0.9 TCe (90 Hp) variant, introduced in 2019, features a downsized turbocharged engine aimed at improving fuel economy and reducing emissions.
Renault Symbol III (Facelift 2017) 0.9 TCe: An Overview
The Symbol III, launched initially in 2012 and receiving a substantial facelift in 2017, is built upon the Dacia Logan platform, sharing many of its underpinnings with its more utilitarian sibling. This platform choice allows Renault to offer the Symbol at a competitive price point. The facelift brought updated styling cues, improved interior materials, and the introduction of more modern technology, enhancing the car’s appeal. The 0.9 TCe engine, a key feature of this iteration, is part of Renault’s efforts to offer smaller, more efficient powertrains across its range. This model is a four-door sedan designed to comfortably accommodate five passengers.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Renault Symbol III 0.9 TCe is a 899 cc inline three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine. This engine produces 90 horsepower at 5000 rpm and 140 Nm (103.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2250 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for everyday driving conditions. The turbocharger and intercooler contribute to improved responsiveness and efficiency. Power delivery is managed through a five-speed manual transmission, directing power to the front wheels. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.1 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 10.5 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 175 km/h (108.74 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle consumption ranging from 5.3 to 5.4 liters per 100 kilometers (44.4 to 43.6 US mpg or 53.3 to 52.3 UK mpg). The engine meets Euro 6 emission standards, reflecting Renault’s commitment to reducing its environmental impact.
Design & Features
The Renault Symbol III boasts a conventional sedan body style, prioritizing practicality and space. The 2017 facelift brought a revised front fascia with a larger grille and updated headlights, giving the car a more modern appearance. The interior is designed with functionality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five adults. While the interior materials are not luxurious, they are durable and well-assembled. Key features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as a standard safety feature. The trunk offers a generous 510 liters of space, expandable to 1257 liters with the rear seats folded down, providing ample room for luggage and cargo. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4354 mm in length, 1733 mm in width, and 1517 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2635 mm. The Symbol III is designed to be a reliable and affordable transportation solution, focusing on essential features rather than extravagant amenities.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Symbol |
| Generation | Symbol III (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 0.9 TCe (90 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.3-6.5 l/100 km (37.3 – 36.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6-4.7 l/100 km (51.1 – 50 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.4 l/100 km (44.4 – 43.6 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 – 122 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 175 km/h (108.74 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Torque | 140 Nm @ 2250 rpm (103.26 lb.-ft. @ 2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 899 cm3 (54.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Kerb Weight | 1088 kg (2398.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1257 l (44.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4354 mm (171.42 in.) |
| Width | 1733 mm (68.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1994 mm (78.5 in.) |
| Height | 1517 mm (59.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm (103.74 in.) |
| Front track | 1496 mm (58.9 in.) |
| Rear track | 1486 mm (58.5 in.) |
| Front overhang | 825 mm (32.48 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 894 mm (35.2 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.82 m (35.5 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
In conclusion, the Renault Symbol III 0.9 TCe (facelift 2017) is a practical and economical sedan designed for markets where affordability and fuel efficiency are paramount. While it may not offer the refinement or performance of vehicles sold in more developed markets, it provides a reliable and functional transportation solution for a wide range of customers.
