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, North Africa, and parts of Eastern Europe, offering an affordable and practical transportation solution. The 1.5 Blue dCi variant, producing 95 horsepower, became a mainstay of the lineup from its introduction in November 2019, balancing fuel efficiency with adequate performance for everyday driving.
Renault Symbol III (Facelift 2017) 1.5 Blue dCi: An Overview
The Symbol III, and specifically the 2017 facelift, builds upon the foundation of its predecessors, offering a more modern aesthetic and improved features. Positioned as a budget-friendly sedan, it competes with vehicles like the Dacia Logan and other entry-level offerings. The facelift brought subtle but noticeable changes to the front fascia, interior trim, and available technology, aiming to enhance its appeal to a wider customer base. The 1.5 Blue dCi engine was a key component of this strategy, providing a diesel option known for its fuel economy and reliability.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Renault Symbol III 1.5 Blue dCi is a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K 872. This engine produces 95 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 220 Nm (162.26 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system to optimize performance and efficiency. While not a performance-oriented vehicle, the 1.5 dCi provides sufficient power for typical urban and highway driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 11.9 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in around 11.3 seconds. The Symbol III boasts a maximum speed of 179 km/h (111.23 mph). A key selling point is its fuel economy, achieving between 3.6 and 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers (65.3 – 61.9 US mpg) in combined driving cycles. CO2 emissions range from 96 to 101 g/km, meeting Euro 6 emission standards. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels through a five-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The Renault Symbol III is a traditional four-door sedan with a practical and functional design. The 2017 facelift brought a revised front grille, updated headlights, and a redesigned bumper, giving the car a more contemporary look. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard equipment. The trunk offers a generous amount of space, ranging from 510 liters (18.01 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1257 liters (44.39 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4354 mm (171.42 in.) in length, 1733 mm (68.23 in.) in width, and 1517 mm (59.72 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2635 mm (103.74 in.). The Symbol III prioritizes affordability and practicality over luxurious appointments, making it a sensible choice for budget-conscious buyers.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Symbol |
| Generation | Symbol III (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Blue dCi (95 Hp) |
| Start of production | November, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.1-4.4 l/100 km (57.4 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4-3.5 l/100 km (69.2 – 67.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.6-3.8 l/100 km (65.3 – 61.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 96 – 101 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 179 km/h (111.23 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 95 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 220 Nm @ 1750 rpm (162.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 872 |
| 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 |
| Kerb Weight | 1191 kg (2625.71 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) |
| AdBlue tank | 14 l (3.7 US gal | 3.08 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.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
In conclusion, the Renault Symbol III 1.5 Blue dCi (facelift 2017) represents a practical and economical choice for buyers in its target markets. While not available in the US, it exemplifies the type of affordable, fuel-efficient sedans that cater to a significant portion of the global automotive market. Its blend of reasonable performance, generous space, and low running costs has cemented its position as a popular option in its segment.
