The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.2 TCe (132 Hp) start&stop is a compact minivan produced by the French automaker Renault from 2013 to 2016. Representing the third generation of the Scenic model, the Phase III update brought styling revisions, enhanced equipment levels, and improvements to the engine range. The Scenic, in its various iterations, has been a popular choice in Europe for families seeking a practical and versatile vehicle, offering a blend of space, comfort, and affordability. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the European compact MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) market.
Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.2 TCe: An Overview
The Scenic III, launched in 2009, aimed to build upon the success of its predecessors by offering a more refined and spacious interior, along with improved driving dynamics. The Phase III update, introduced in 2013, focused on enhancing the vehicle’s appeal with a refreshed exterior design, updated interior materials, and the introduction of more efficient engine options. The 1.2 TCe variant, equipped with a turbocharged gasoline engine, was a key offering in the lineup, providing a balance between performance and fuel economy. This model competed with vehicles like the Citroën C4 Picasso and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira in the European market.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.2 TCe is powered by the H5F engine, a 1.2-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 132 horsepower (Hp) and 205 Newton-meters (151.2 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection and an intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. The inclusion of both turbocharging and supercharging, though less common, provides a broad torque curve and responsive acceleration. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.4 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in 10.8 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 185 km/h (114.95 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 6.2 liters per 100 kilometers (37.9 US mpg) combined, with 7.5 l/100km (31.4 US mpg) in urban conditions and 5.4 l/100km (43.6 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, and the inclusion of a Start & Stop system further contributes to fuel savings and reduced emissions.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate five passengers. It features a distinctive exterior styling with a sloping roofline and a relatively short front overhang. The Phase III update brought revised front and rear fascias, new headlight designs, and updated interior trim. The interior is characterized by its spaciousness and practicality, with a focus on passenger comfort and convenience. Key features include a user-friendly dashboard layout, comfortable seating, and ample storage compartments. The rear seats can be folded down to increase cargo capacity, offering flexibility for carrying luggage or larger items. Trunk space ranges from a minimum of 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.) to a maximum of 1870 liters (66.04 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and a robust body structure designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4366 mm (171.89 in.) in length, 1845 mm (72.64 in.) in width, and it has a turning circle of 11.05 meters (36.25 ft.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic III (Phase III) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 TCe (132 Hp) start&stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm |
| Power | 132 Hp |
| Torque | 205 Nm (151.2 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H5F |
| Engine displacement | 1197 cm3 (73.05 cu. in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharging and Supercharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.6 l (4.86 US qt | 4.05 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1955 kg (4310.04 lbs.) |
| Max load | 560 kg (1234.59 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 470 l (16.6 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1870 l (66.04 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4366 mm (171.89 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.2 TCe represents a practical and efficient option for families in the European market. Its combination of spaciousness, fuel economy, and modern features made it a competitive choice in the compact MPV segment. While not available in the US, its technical specifications and design elements offer a glimpse into the engineering and design philosophies prevalent in the European automotive industry during the early 2010s.


