The Renault Scenic III (Phase I) 2.0 dCi (150 Hp) FAP Automatic, produced between 2009 and 2011, represents a significant iteration in Renault’s long-running Scenic line of compact minivans. Positioned as a family vehicle emphasizing practicality and comfort, the Scenic III aimed to improve upon its predecessors with enhanced interior space, updated technology, and a more refined driving experience. While not officially sold in the United States, the Scenic has been a popular choice in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Volkswagen Touran and Citroën C4 Picasso. This model specifically, with its 2.0-liter diesel engine and automatic transmission, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking fuel efficiency and ease of use in a versatile package.
Renault Scenic III: A Detailed Overview
The Scenic III marked a departure from earlier generations, adopting a more contemporary design language and focusing on interior flexibility. Phase I models, like the 2.0 dCi, were characterized by a distinctive front end and a spacious cabin designed to accommodate a family of five. The emphasis was on creating a comfortable and functional environment, with features geared towards long journeys and everyday practicality. The inclusion of a Diesel Particulate Filter (FAP) demonstrated Renault’s commitment to meeting increasingly stringent European emission standards.
Engine & Performance
At the heart of the Scenic III 2.0 dCi lies Renault’s M9R engine, a 1995cc inline four-cylinder diesel powerplant. This engine delivers 150 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a substantial 340 Nm (250.77 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The turbocharger and intercooler work in concert to optimize performance and efficiency. Paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, the Scenic III achieves a 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) acceleration time of 9.7 seconds, and a 0-60 mph time of 9.2 seconds. Its top speed is electronically limited to 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Fuel economy is a strong point, with combined cycle figures of 7.0 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg), making it an economical choice for families covering significant distances. The engine meets Euro 5 emission standards, reflecting Renault’s efforts to reduce its environmental impact.
Design & Features
The Renault Scenic III Phase I is a five-door minivan, offering a practical and versatile body style. Its design prioritizes interior space and functionality. Key features include a spacious cabin with comfortable seating for five passengers, a flexible seating arrangement allowing for various configurations, and a large trunk offering between 437 and 522 liters (15.43 – 18.43 cu. ft.) of storage space with the seats up, expanding to 1837 liters (64.87 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. Safety features, typical for vehicles of this era, include ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and driver/passenger airbags. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4343 mm (170.98 in) in length, 1845 mm (72.64 in) in width, and 1624 mm (63.94 in) in height – provide a good balance between maneuverability and interior space. The Scenic III also boasts a 60-liter (15.85 US gal) fuel tank, offering a respectable driving range.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Scenic |
| Generation | Scenic III (Phase I) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 dCi (150 Hp) FAP Automatic |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2011 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Minivan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.0 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.0 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 184 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.5 kg/Nm, 220.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 75.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 340 Nm @ 1750 rpm (250.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | M9R |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90 mm (3.54 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 15.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 7.4 l (7.82 US qt | 6.51 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.5 l (7.93 US qt | 6.6 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1540 kg (3395.12 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2092 kg (4612.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 552 kg (1216.95 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 437-522 l (15.43 – 18.43 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1837 l (64.87 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 60 l (15.85 US gal | 13.2 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 80 kg (176.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4343 mm (170.98 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2077 mm (81.77 in.) |
| Height | 1624 mm (63.94 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2702 mm (106.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1546 mm (60.87 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1547 mm (60.91 in.) |
| Front overhang | 888 mm (34.96 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 753 mm (29.65 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 120 mm (4.72 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Elastic beam |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 296 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 274 mm |
| Tires size | 205/60 R16; 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |


