The Renault Megane II 1.5 dCi (82 Hp) is a compact hatchback produced by the French automaker Renault between 2002 and 2005. Representing the second generation of the Megane, this model was a significant player in the European C-segment, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Opel Astra. While not officially sold in the United States, the Megane II was a popular choice for its fuel efficiency, practicality, and relatively affordable price point in European markets. This particular variant, powered by a 1.5-liter diesel engine, focused on economy and everyday usability.
Renault Megane II 1.5 dCi: An Overview
The Megane II marked a substantial step forward for Renault in terms of design, build quality, and technology. It offered a more refined driving experience compared to its predecessor and introduced several new features. The 1.5 dCi engine was a key component of the Megane II’s appeal, providing a balance between performance and fuel economy that resonated with European consumers. The hatchback body style was the most common configuration, offering a versatile and practical solution for families and individuals alike.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Megane II 1.5 dCi is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K. This engine produces 82 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 185 Nm (136.45 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2000 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for everyday driving. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, enhancing efficiency and low-end torque. Fuel is delivered via a Diesel Commonrail injection system, contributing to smoother operation and reduced emissions. The engine’s displacement is 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.), and it boasts a relatively high compression ratio of 18.8:1, typical for diesel engines. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.3 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.6 seconds. The top speed is rated at 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 14.6 kg/Hp, and its torque-to-weight ratio is 6.5 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Megane II 1.5 dCi is a five-door hatchback, offering seating for five passengers. Its exterior design was a departure from the more rounded styling of the previous generation, adopting a more angular and modern aesthetic. The interior was designed with practicality in mind, featuring a functional dashboard layout and comfortable seating. Standard features included power steering, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a five-speed manual transmission. The trunk (boot) space is a practical 330 liters (11.65 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, expanding to 1190 liters (42.02 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. The car’s dimensions are 4209 mm (165.71 in.) in length, 1777 mm (69.96 in.) in width, and 1458 mm (57.4 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2625 mm (103.35 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Megane |
| Generation | Megane II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (82 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2002 |
| End of production | 2005 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 82 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 185 Nm @ 2000 rpm (136.45 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 |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.8:1 |
| 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 | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1195 kg (2634.52 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1745 kg (3847.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 330 l (11.65 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1190 l (42.02 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 | 4209 mm (165.71 in.) |
| Width | 1777 mm (69.96 in.) |
| Height | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2625 mm (103.35 in.) |
| Front track | 1518 mm (59.76 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 842 mm (33.15 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 742 mm (29.21 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.5 m (34.45 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Renault Megane II 1.5 dCi, while not available in the US market, represented a significant offering in the European compact car segment. Its blend of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability made it a popular choice for a wide range of drivers. The 1.5 dCi engine, though not powerful, provided a reliable and economical powertrain for everyday use.
