The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.5 dCi, produced from 2013 to 2016, represents a significant evolution of Renault’s popular compact minivan. Positioned as a family vehicle, the Scenic III aimed to blend practicality, comfort, and fuel efficiency. The Phase III update brought styling revisions, enhanced interior features, and improvements to the engine lineup, including the 1.5 dCi diesel engine with Start & Stop technology. While primarily a European market vehicle, the Scenic consistently ranked among the best-selling compact MPVs in Europe, competing with models like the Citroën C4 Picasso and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira. This version was not officially sold in the United States due to the limited demand for this vehicle class in the American market.
Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.5 dCi: An Overview
The Scenic III, launched in 2009, was Renault’s third generation of the Scenic model, a vehicle that pioneered the compact minivan segment. The Phase III update, introduced in 2013, focused on refining the existing platform and enhancing the vehicle’s appeal. The 1.5 dCi engine option, producing 110 horsepower, was a key component of this update, offering a balance between performance and fuel economy. The Start & Stop system further contributed to improved efficiency, making it an attractive option for environmentally conscious buyers. The Scenic III Phase III continued Renault’s tradition of innovative interior design and practical features, catering to the needs of modern families.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic III (Phase III) 1.5 dCi is a 1.5-liter, four-cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K. This engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to deliver 110 horsepower (Hp) and 260 Newton-meters (191.77 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. Power is delivered through a six-speed manual transmission. The 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration takes 12.5 seconds, while 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.9 seconds. The top speed is rated at 180 km/h (111.85 mph). A key feature of this engine is the Start & Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The engine’s fuel economy is rated at 4.1 liters per 100 kilometers (57.4 US mpg) on a combined cycle, with CO2 emissions of 105 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) is a five-door minivan designed to accommodate five passengers. It features a spacious and versatile interior, with a focus on practicality and comfort. The rear seats can be folded down or removed completely, providing a flexible cargo area. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.), expanding to 1870 liters (66.04 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded. The Phase III update included subtle styling changes to the exterior, such as revised headlights and a redesigned front grille. Inside, the cabin benefited from improved materials and updated technology. Standard safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), ventilated front disc brakes, and disc brakes on the rear. The vehicle’s turning circle is 11.05 meters (36.25 ft). The Scenic III prioritized family-friendly features, offering a comfortable and practical transportation solution.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic III (Phase III) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (110 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) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 180 km/h (111.85 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.6 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp |
| Power per litre | 75.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1460 kg (3218.75 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1967 kg (4336.49 lbs.) |
| Max load | 507 kg (1117.74 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 Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | 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) 1.5 dCi offered a compelling package for families seeking a practical, fuel-efficient, and comfortable minivan. Its blend of innovative features, spacious interior, and refined diesel engine made it a popular choice in the European market, despite not being available for sale in the United States.
