Renault Samsung SM5 I 525 i V (173 Hp)

The Renault Samsung SM5 I 525 i V (173 Hp) represents a significant chapter in the history of the South Korean automotive market, offering a compelling blend of Japanese engineering and local market adaptation. Produced by Renault Samsung Motors, a joint venture that began with Samsung Motors and later became part of the Renault Group, the SM5 I was manufactured from 1998 to 2005. This first-generation model established itself as a popular mid-size to executive sedan in its primary market, South Korea, where it competed in a fiercely contested segment. While not officially sold in North America, the SM5 I is noteworthy for its robust underpinnings, being largely based on the highly successful Nissan Cefiro (known as the Maxima in some markets, though not directly the US Maxima A32/A33). This strategic partnership allowed Renault Samsung to leverage proven platforms and powertrains, providing Korean consumers with a reliable and well-appointed vehicle that carried a reputation for quality and refinement.

Engine and Performance: The Heart of the Renault Samsung SM5 I 525 i V (173 Hp)

At the core of the Renault Samsung SM5 I 525 i V (173 Hp) lies a powerplant revered for its smoothness and durability: the Nissan-derived VQ25DE engine. This 2.5-liter (2495 cm3 or 152.25 cu. in.) naturally aspirated V-engine is configured with six cylinders, featuring a Double Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s architecture, including an 85 mm bore and 73.3 mm piston stroke, is designed for a balanced combination of power delivery and refinement. With a compression ratio of 8.5:1 and a multi-port manifold injection system, the VQ25DE was engineered to deliver consistent performance and efficiency using regular gasoline (petrol).

The output figures for this variant of the SM5 I are impressive for its time and class. It generates 173 horsepower (Hp) at a peak of 6400 revolutions per minute (rpm), translating to a power-per-liter rating of 69.3 Hp/l. Torque is equally substantial, reaching 221 Nm (163 lb.-ft.) at 4000 rpm. This robust torque curve ensures responsive acceleration in various driving conditions, making it suitable for both city commuting and highway cruising. The engine’s front, transverse layout contributes to efficient packaging and optimal weight distribution for a front-wheel-drive vehicle.

Power is channeled to the front wheels through a 4-speed automatic transmission, a common and reliable choice for comfortable driving in this segment during the late 1990s and early 2000s. While not designed for aggressive sportiness, this transmission provides smooth shifts and contributes to the overall relaxed driving experience. Performance metrics include a maximum speed of 128.62 mph (207 km/h), demonstrating its capability for sustained highway speeds. The vehicle’s weight-to-power ratio stands at 8.4 kg/Hp (118.9 Hp/tonne), and a weight-to-torque ratio of 6.6 kg/Nm (151.9 Nm/tonne) further underlines its competent performance, offering a solid balance between mass and motive force for its class.

Design and Features: Comfort and Practicality

The design philosophy of the Renault Samsung SM5 I 525 i V (173 Hp) prioritizes comfort, practicality, and a sense of understated elegance, characteristic of its Nissan Cefiro lineage. As a traditional four-door sedan with seating for five occupants, it catered to families and professionals seeking a reliable and spacious vehicle. Its exterior dimensions are substantial, with a length of 190.75 inches (4845 mm), a width of 70.28 inches (1785 mm), and a height of 56.1 inches (1425 mm). These generous dimensions, combined with a wheelbase of 106.3 inches (2700 mm), translate directly into a commodious interior, offering ample legroom and headroom for all passengers.

The aesthetic of the SM5 I is generally conservative, favoring clean lines and a classic sedan profile that has aged gracefully. While lacking the aggressive styling cues of some contemporary models, its design emphasized a timeless appeal and broad market acceptance. The vehicle’s curb weight is 3207.73 lbs (1455 kg), and it has a maximum permissible weight of 4177.76 lbs (1895 kg), allowing for a maximum load of 970.03 lbs (440 kg). A fuel tank capacity of 17.17 US gallons (65 liters) ensures a respectable cruising range.

In terms of chassis and features, the SM5 I was equipped to provide a comfortable and secure ride. The suspension system features a wishbone setup at the front, known for its ability to provide precise handling and a compliant ride, while the rear utilizes coil springs, further contributing to ride comfort. The braking system comprises ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, offering effective stopping power. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was a key assisting system, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lock-up during hard braking. Steering is managed by a hydraulic rack and pinion system, providing direct feedback and ease of maneuverability, especially at lower speeds due to the power steering assistance. The vehicle rides on 205/65 R15 H tires mounted on 15-inch wheel rims, a specification that balances grip, ride comfort, and durability suitable for its intended market. The overall design and feature set underscored the SM5 I’s role as a dependable, comfortable, and well-equipped family sedan for the discerning South Korean consumer.

Technical Specifications