The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.6 16V, 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 a degree of style within the highly competitive European MPV (Multi-Purpose Vehicle) segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Scenic series has been a mainstay in European markets for decades, known for its innovative features and spacious interior. The Phase III update brought refinements to the exterior styling, interior materials, and technology, enhancing its appeal to families seeking a versatile and modern vehicle.
Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.6 16V: An Overview
The Scenic III, and specifically the Phase III iteration, was designed to address the needs of modern families. It offered a five-seat configuration, prioritizing passenger space and cargo capacity. The Phase III models received updated front-end styling, revised interior trim, and improvements to the infotainment system. The 1.6 16V engine option provided a balance between fuel efficiency and adequate performance for everyday driving. The Scenic competed with vehicles like the Citroën C4 Picasso, Peugeot 5008, and Volkswagen Touran, all vying for dominance in the European minivan market.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.6 16V is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated the K4M engine code. This naturally aspirated engine produces 110 horsepower (Hp) and 151 Newton-meters (111.37 lb.-ft.) of torque. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides sufficient power for typical driving conditions. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a 16-valve cylinder head, contributing to its relatively smooth operation. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 11.7 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.1 seconds. The vehicle has a maximum speed of 190 km/h (118.06 mph). Fuel economy is rated at 7.4 liters per 100 kilometers (31.8 US mpg) combined, with 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) in urban settings and 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) on the extra-urban cycle. CO2 emissions are rated at 174 g/km, meeting Euro 5 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) boasts a distinctive minivan silhouette, characterized by its tall roofline and generous glass area. The Phase III update included revised front and rear styling, with a more prominent Renault logo and updated headlight designs. The interior is designed with practicality in mind, offering a comfortable and spacious cabin for five passengers. Key features include a user-friendly dashboard layout, comfortable seating, and a modular interior that allows for flexible cargo configurations. The rear seats can be folded down to create a larger cargo area, with a minimum capacity of 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.) expanding to a maximum of 1870 liters (66.04 cu. ft.) with the seats folded. Safety features include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and the vehicle’s structure is designed to provide occupant protection in the event of a collision. The steering utilizes a rack and pinion system for precise handling, and the vehicle rides on 205/60 R16 tires with 16-inch wheel rims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic III (Phase III) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 10.1 l/100 km (23.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.4 l/100 km (31.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 174 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 110 Hp |
| Torque | 151 Nm (111.37 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1395 kg (3075.45 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1904 kg (4197.6 lbs.) |
| Max load | 509 kg (1122.15 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) 1.6 16V, while not a high-performance vehicle, offered a practical and comfortable solution for families in the European market. Its blend of space, efficiency, and features made it a popular choice in its segment, and it remains a well-regarded vehicle for those seeking a versatile and reliable minivan.
