The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.6 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 1.6 dCi diesel engine detailed here. While the Scenic was primarily a European market vehicle, it showcased Renault’s commitment to innovative design and technology within the minivan segment. This model competed with vehicles like the Citroën C4 Picasso and Opel/Vauxhall Zafira, offering a compelling alternative for families seeking a versatile and spacious vehicle.
Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.6 dCi: An Overview
The Scenic III, launched in 2009, was Renault’s third generation of the compact minivan, originally introduced in 1996 as the Mégane Scénic. The Phase III update, arriving in 2013, focused on refining the existing platform and addressing customer feedback. The 1.6 dCi variant, equipped with a 130 horsepower diesel engine and Start&Stop technology, was a key offering, emphasizing fuel economy and reduced emissions. This version of the Scenic was designed to appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and those prioritizing low running costs. The vehicle’s five-seat configuration and five-door layout provided ample space for passengers and cargo, making it a practical choice for everyday use.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Scenic III 1.6 dCi is a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated the R9M. This engine produces 130 horsepower (Hp) and 320 Newton-meters (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to optimize performance and efficiency. The power output translates to a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 10.3 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.8 seconds, making it adequately responsive for everyday driving. The engine’s maximum speed is rated at 195 km/h (121.17 mph). A key feature of this engine is the Start&Stop system, which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, further reducing fuel consumption and emissions. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.6 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.7 kg/Nm, contributing to a balanced driving experience.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic III Phase III maintains the distinctive minivan silhouette of its predecessors, with a focus on maximizing interior space and practicality. The vehicle’s exterior design incorporates Renault’s contemporary styling cues, including a revised front grille, updated headlights, and redesigned taillights. The interior is characterized by a spacious and comfortable cabin, with a focus on ergonomics and user-friendliness. Key features include a panoramic sunroof (optional), a touchscreen infotainment system, and a variety of storage compartments throughout the cabin. Safety features are comprehensive, including ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), electronic stability control, and multiple airbags. The Scenic III offers a generous trunk (boot) space of 470 liters (16.6 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up, which expands to 1870 liters (66.04 cu. ft.) when the rear seats are folded down. 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 m (36.25 ft).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic III (Phase III) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 dCi (130 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) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp |
| Torque | 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | R9M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt, 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2035 kg (4486.41 lbs.) |
| Max load | 530 kg (1168.45 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 | 205/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Renault Scenic III (Phase III) 1.6 dCi offered a compelling package for families seeking a practical, efficient, and comfortable minivan. Its combination of a fuel-efficient diesel engine, spacious interior, and comprehensive features made it a popular choice in the European market. While not officially sold in the United States, it represents a significant example of Renault’s engineering and design capabilities within the compact minivan segment.
