The Renault Symbol II 1.5 dCi (85 Hp), produced between 2008 and 2012, is a subcompact sedan primarily aimed at the European and North African markets. While not officially sold in the United States, it represents a significant offering in its segment, providing affordable and fuel-efficient transportation. The Symbol II is essentially a rebadged and updated version of the second-generation Dacia Logan, tailored to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical vehicle. It filled a niche for budget-conscious consumers needing a reliable four-door sedan.
Renault Symbol II 1.5 dCi: An Overview
The Symbol II was positioned as an entry-level vehicle, competing with other subcompacts like the Peugeot 206 and Fiat Palio. It offered a step up in terms of refinement and features compared to the original Logan, while maintaining a focus on value. The 1.5 dCi engine variant was particularly popular due to its impressive fuel economy and adequate performance for everyday driving. The car’s design prioritized practicality and affordability over outright luxury or sporty aesthetics.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Renault Symbol II 1.5 dCi is a 1.5-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated K9K 718. This engine produces 85 horsepower at 3750 rpm and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque at 1750 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler and a diesel commonrail fuel injection system, contributing to its efficiency and relatively smooth power delivery. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.3 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 11.7 seconds. The top speed is rated at 177 km/h (109.98 mph). A five-speed manual transmission is the only gearbox option available, prioritizing simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 11.5 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 4.9 kg/Nm.
Design & Features
The Renault Symbol II is a traditional four-door sedan with a relatively conservative design. Its styling is functional rather than flamboyant, emphasizing practicality and maximizing interior space. The car seats five passengers comfortably, offering a reasonable amount of legroom and headroom for its class. Key features included hydraulic power steering and an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard equipment, enhancing safety and driver control. The trunk offers a minimum capacity of 504 liters (17.8 cu. ft.), providing ample space for luggage and cargo. The interior is characterized by durable materials and a straightforward layout, focusing on ease of use and longevity. While not brimming with advanced technology, the Symbol II provided essential features for comfortable and reliable transportation.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Symbol |
| Generation | Symbol II |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 dCi (85 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2008 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 177 km/h (109.98 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.5 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm |
| Power | 85 Hp @ 3750 rpm |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | K9K 718 |
| Engine displacement | 1461 cm3 (89.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.5 mm (3.17 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.9:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 980 kg (2160.53 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Max load | 555 kg (1223.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 504 l (17.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4261 mm (167.76 in.) |
| Width | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Height | 1439 mm (56.65 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 1940 mm (76.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1406 mm (55.35 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1385 mm (54.53 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 175/65 R14 |
| Wheel rims size | 14 |
The Renault Symbol II 1.5 dCi, while not a performance car, offered a compelling package of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability. It served as a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and economical sedan in its target markets, demonstrating Renault’s commitment to providing accessible transportation solutions.
