The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dTi, produced from 2000 to 2003, represents a significant evolution in the compact minivan segment. As Renault’s entry into the burgeoning multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) market, the Scenic aimed to provide family-friendly practicality with a focus on interior space and versatility. While not initially sold in the United States, the Scenic became a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran and Citroën Xsara Picasso. The Phase II update brought refinements to the original Scenic, including updated styling, improved interior materials, and enhanced safety features. This version, powered by a 1.9-liter diesel engine, offered a balance of fuel efficiency and reasonable performance for its intended purpose.
Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.9 dTi: A Detailed Overview
The Scenic I Phase II 1.9 dTi was designed to address the needs of modern families seeking a vehicle that could comfortably accommodate passengers and cargo. Its compact dimensions made it easy to maneuver in urban environments, while its spacious interior provided ample room for five occupants. The Phase II model built upon the success of the original Scenic, addressing some of the initial criticisms and solidifying its position as a leading MPV in the European market. The 1.9 dTi engine variant was particularly popular due to its fuel economy and torque, making it suitable for both city driving and longer journeys.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic I Phase II 1.9 dTi is a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated the F9Q. This engine produces 80 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 160 Nm (118.01 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 and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to improved efficiency and reduced emissions compared to earlier diesel engines. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 15.7 seconds, and it reaches a top speed of 162 km/h (100.66 mph). The weight-to-power ratio is 17.1 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 8.5 kg/Nm. The engine’s transverse mounting and front-wheel-drive configuration contribute to its compact footprint and efficient packaging. The 5-speed manual transmission allows for driver control and contributes to the vehicle’s fuel economy.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic I Phase II is a five-door minivan with a practical and functional design. Its tall roofline maximizes interior space, and the large windows provide excellent visibility. The Phase II update included subtle styling changes, such as revised front and rear fascias, and updated interior trim. A key feature of the Scenic is its modular interior, with seats that can be folded, removed, or reconfigured to create a variety of seating and cargo arrangements. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 410 liters (14.48 cu. ft.), expanding to a substantial 1800 liters (63.57 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ventilated front disc brakes. The hydraulic power steering provides ease of maneuverability. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4169 mm (164.13 in.) in length, 1719 mm (67.68 in.) in width, and 1675 mm (65.94 in.) in height. The wheelbase measures 2564 mm (100.94 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic I (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 dTi (80 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2000 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 162 km/h (100.66 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 17.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 80 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 42.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 2000 rpm (118.01 lb.-ft. @ 2000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F9Q |
| Engine displacement | 1870 cm3 (114.11 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 93 mm (3.66 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.8 l (5.07 US qt | 4.22 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1365 kg (3009.31 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1840 kg (4056.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 475 kg (1047.2 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4169 mm (164.13 in.) |
| Width | 1719 mm (67.68 in.) |
| Height | 1675 mm (65.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2564 mm (100.94 in.) |
| Front track | 1450 mm (57.09 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1471 mm (57.91 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| 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 | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Scenic I Phase II 1.9 dTi remains a noteworthy vehicle in the history of compact MPVs. Its blend of practicality, fuel efficiency, and versatile interior made it a popular choice for families in Europe. While not known for outright performance, it provided a comfortable and reliable driving experience, cementing its place as a significant competitor in its segment.
