The Renault Symbol III 1.2 16V (75 Hp), produced from 2013 to 2017, is a subcompact sedan primarily aimed at the emerging markets of Eastern Europe, North Africa, and Turkey. While not officially sold in the United States, understanding its specifications provides insight into the globally popular segment of affordable, fuel-efficient transportation. The Symbol III represents the third generation of the Symbol, a model originally developed as a budget-friendly alternative to the Renault Clio, offering a practical and economical option for families and individuals.
Renault Symbol III: An Overview
The Symbol III occupies the subcompact sedan segment, competing with vehicles like the Dacia Logan and other regionally specific models. It was designed to offer a spacious interior and a large trunk volume at a competitive price point. The 1.2 16V engine variant, producing 75 horsepower, was a mainstay of the lineup, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The vehicle’s design and features reflect a focus on practicality and affordability, making it a popular choice in its target markets.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Symbol III 1.2 16V is powered by a 1.149-liter (70.12 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the D4F 732. This naturally aspirated engine produces 75 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 107 Nm (78.92 lb.-ft.) of torque at 4250 rpm. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for everyday driving conditions. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 14.5 seconds, and 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 13.8 seconds. The top speed is rated at 156 km/h (96.93 mph). The engine’s power-to-weight ratio is 13 kg/Hp, and the torque-to-weight ratio is 9.1 kg/Nm. The drivetrain is front-wheel drive, coupled with a five-speed manual transmission.
Design & Features
The Renault Symbol III is a four-door, five-seat sedan. Its design is conservative and functional, prioritizing interior space and practicality. The vehicle’s dimensions are 4348 mm (171.18 inches) in length, 1733 mm (68.23 inches) in width, and 1517 mm (59.72 inches) in height. The wheelbase measures 2634 mm (103.7 inches). A key feature of the Symbol III is its generous trunk space, offering 510 liters (18.01 cubic feet) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1257 liters (44.39 cubic feet) when the rear seats are folded down. Safety features, while basic by modern standards, typically included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The vehicle’s curb weight is 974 kg (2147.3 lbs), with a maximum permissible weight of 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs). Ride height (ground clearance) is 155 mm (6.1 inches).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Symbol |
| Generation | Symbol III |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 16V (75 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6 l/100 km (39.2 US mpg, 47.1 UK mpg, 16.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 140 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 13.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 156 km/h (96.93 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 b+ |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 75 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 107 Nm @ 4250 rpm (78.92 lb.-ft. @ 4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D4F 732 |
| Engine displacement | 1149 cm3 (70.12 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 974 kg (2147.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1505 kg (3317.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 531 kg (1170.65 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1257 l (44.39 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1100 kg (2425.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 520 kg (1146.4 lbs.) |
| Length | 4348 mm (171.18 in.) |
| Width | 1733 mm (68.23 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1994 mm (78.5 in.) |
| Height | 1517 mm (59.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2634 mm (103.7 in.) |
| Front track | 1493 mm (58.78 in.) |
| Rear track | 1476 mm (58.11 in.) |
| Front overhang | 814 mm (32.05 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 900 mm (35.43 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.82 m (35.5 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
The Renault Symbol III 1.2 16V, while not a vehicle commonly found in the United States, represents a significant segment of the global automotive market – affordable, reliable, and practical transportation. Its focus on fuel efficiency and spaciousness made it a popular choice in the regions where it was sold, demonstrating Renault’s ability to cater to diverse market needs.
