The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.6 i 16V, produced between 1999 and 2003, represents a significant evolution in the compact minivan segment. As Renault’s entry into the burgeoning multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) market, the Scenic aimed to provide family-friendly practicality with a focus on innovative interior packaging and a comfortable driving experience. While not initially sold in the United States, the Scenic became a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran and Opel Zafira. The Phase II update brought refinements to the original Scenic, enhancing its appeal and solidifying its position as a leading MPV.
Renault Scenic I (Phase II): A Detailed Overview
The Scenic I, and particularly the Phase II iteration, was designed to address the needs of modern families. It offered a spacious interior, flexible seating arrangements, and a range of practical features. The Phase II models benefited from subtle styling updates and improvements to the engine range, including the 1.6-liter 16-valve petrol engine discussed here. This engine provided a balance of performance and fuel efficiency, making it a popular choice for buyers.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.6 i 16V is powered by a 1.6-liter inline four-cylinder petrol engine, designated the K4M. This naturally aspirated engine produces 107 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 148 Nm (109.16 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. The engine features a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission. Performance figures include a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 11.2 seconds and a maximum speed of 182 km/h (113.09 mph). The 0-60 mph time is calculated at 10.6 seconds. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.7 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 8.4 kg/Nm, indicating a reasonable level of responsiveness for its class. Fuel economy is rated at 7.5 liters per 100 kilometers combined (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l).
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) is a five-door minivan with a practical and functional design. Its tall roofline and boxy shape maximize interior space, while the large windows provide good visibility. The Phase II models received minor cosmetic updates, including revised front and rear bumpers and updated interior trim. The interior is a key strength of the Scenic, offering a flexible seating configuration with the ability to remove the rear seats to create a larger cargo area. The trunk space ranges from 410 liters (14.48 cu ft) with all seats in place to 1800 liters (63.57 cu ft) with the rear seats folded or removed. Safety features for the time included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a hydraulic power steering system. The vehicle’s focus was on practicality and family convenience, offering a comfortable and versatile space for passengers and their belongings.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic I (Phase II) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 i 16V (107 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1999 |
| End of production | 2003 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.5 l/100 km (24.8 US mpg, 29.7 UK mpg, 10.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 182 km/h (113.09 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.7 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 107 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Torque | 148 Nm @ 3750 rpm (109.16 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K4M |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.5 mm (3.13 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1800 kg (3968.32 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 410 l (14.48 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1800 l (63.57 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Length | 4168 mm (164.09 in.) |
| Width | 1719 mm (67.68 in.) |
| Height | 1609 mm (63.35 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2580 mm (101.57 in.) |
| Front track | 1446 mm (56.93 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1458 mm (57.4 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Scenic I (Phase II) 1.6 i 16V remains a practical and affordable option for those seeking a compact MPV. Its spacious interior, flexible seating, and reasonable running costs made it a popular choice in its time, and it continues to be appreciated by those who value functionality and versatility.
