The Renault Symbol III 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) FAP is a compact sedan produced by Renault between 2013 and 2017. Primarily marketed in regions outside of North America, particularly in Turkey, North Africa, and parts of Eastern Europe, the Symbol occupied a crucial position in Renault’s budget-oriented vehicle lineup. It served as an affordable and practical option for families and individuals seeking economical transportation. The Symbol III represented a significant update to the second-generation model, offering improved fuel efficiency, updated styling, and enhanced safety features, all while maintaining a competitive price point. This vehicle is notable for its diesel engine option, a popular choice in European markets due to favorable taxation and fuel economy.
Renault Symbol III 1.5 dCi: Overview and Market Position
The Symbol nameplate has a complex history, originating as a rebadged version of the first-generation Clio destined for specific emerging markets. The Symbol III, however, was a more substantial redesign, built on a modified version of the second-generation Clio platform. It was specifically engineered to meet the demands of cost-conscious buyers, offering a blend of practicality, reliability, and fuel efficiency. Unlike many Renault models sold in Western Europe, the Symbol III was not widely available in countries like France or Germany. Its success hinged on providing a value proposition in markets where affordability was paramount. The “FAP” designation indicates the inclusion of a particulate filter, a common feature in European diesel vehicles designed to reduce harmful emissions.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Symbol III 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) FAP is powered by a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the K9K 612. This engine produces 90 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. The vehicle’s performance figures reflect its focus on economy rather than outright speed. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.5 seconds. The top speed is rated at 173 km/h (107.5 mph). Fuel economy is a key strength, with combined cycle consumption rated at 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg or 72.4 UK mpg). CO2 emissions are rated at 103 g/km, placing it within favorable emissions brackets in many European countries.
Design & Features
The Renault Symbol III is a traditional four-door sedan with a relatively conservative design. The exterior styling features rounded edges and a simple, functional aesthetic. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering seating for five passengers. While not luxurious, the cabin provides adequate space and comfort for everyday use. Key features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment, reflecting a growing emphasis on safety. The trunk offers a generous 510 liters of space, expandable to 1257 liters with the rear seats folded down. The Symbol III’s design prioritized affordability and usability over stylistic flair, making it a sensible choice for buyers seeking a no-frills transportation solution. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4348 mm (171.18 in) in length, 1733 mm (68.23 in) in width, and 1517 mm (59.72 in) in height.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Symbol |
| Generation | Symbol III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) FAP |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 103 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 173 km/h (107.5 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 b+ |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.8 kg/Hp, 85 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.8 kg/Nm, 207.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1750 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 612 |
| 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 oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1059 kg (2334.7 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1590 kg (3505.35 lbs.) |
| Max load | 531 kg (1170.65 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) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Length | 4348 mm (171.18 in.) |
| Width | 1733 mm (68.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1994 mm (78.5 in.) |
| Height | 1517 mm (59.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2634 mm (103.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Rear track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.82 m (35.5 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Symbol III 1.5 dCi (90 Hp) FAP, while not a performance vehicle, offered a compelling package of affordability, fuel efficiency, and practicality for buyers in its target markets. Its diesel engine and focus on economy made it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and cost-effective mode of transportation.
