The Renault Symbol III, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2017, is a subcompact sedan primarily aimed at the emerging markets of Eastern Europe, North Africa, and Latin America. While not officially sold in the United States, it represents a significant model in Renault’s global lineup, offering an affordable and practical transportation solution. The Symbol III builds upon the foundation of the second-generation Symbol, itself based on the first-generation Renault Clio, and distinguishes itself with updated styling, improved features, and a focus on fuel efficiency. This version, equipped with a 1.6-liter 16-valve engine and an automatic transmission, provides a balance of performance and convenience for its target demographic.
Renault Symbol III: An Overview
The Symbol III (facelift 2017) occupies a niche in the automotive market where affordability and practicality are paramount. It’s designed to appeal to buyers seeking a reliable sedan with a reasonable level of comfort and features, without the higher price tag associated with more established brands or models. The 2017 facelift brought cosmetic updates to the exterior and interior, enhancing its appeal and modernizing its appearance. The 1.6 16V engine paired with an automatic transmission was a popular configuration, offering ease of use in urban environments and on longer journeys.
Engine & Performance
The Renault Symbol III 1.6 16V is powered by a 1.598-liter (97.52 cubic inches) inline-four cylinder gasoline engine, designated the H4M. This naturally aspirated engine produces 102 horsepower at 5750 rpm and 145 Newton-meters (106.95 lb-ft) of torque at 3750 rpm. While not a performance-oriented engine, it provides adequate power for everyday driving conditions. The engine features multi-port fuel injection and a compression ratio of 9.8:1. The powertrain is coupled with a four-speed automatic transmission, delivering smooth gear changes and ease of operation. The weight-to-power ratio is 10.6 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 7.5 kg/Nm. Fuel economy is rated at 6.4 liters per 100 kilometers (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l), and CO2 emissions are 189 g/km, meeting Euro 4 emission standards.
Design & Features
The Renault Symbol III is a traditional four-door sedan with a conventional layout. It offers seating for five passengers and provides a practical level of interior space. The 2017 facelift included revisions to the front fascia, headlights, and grille, giving the car a more contemporary look. Inside, the Symbol III features a functional dashboard layout with basic instrumentation and controls. Standard features typically include power steering, air conditioning, and an audio system. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as those found in more expensive vehicles, generally include an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). Trunk space is a notable highlight, offering 510 liters (18.01 cubic feet) with the rear seats up and expanding to 1257 liters (44.39 cubic feet) with the rear seats folded down. The vehicle’s design prioritizes practicality and affordability over luxury or sporty aesthetics.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | Symbol |
| Generation | Symbol III (facelift 2017) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 16V (102 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km |
| Fuel consumption (US mpg) | 36.8 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (UK mpg) | 44.1 UK mpg |
| Fuel consumption (km/l) | 15.6 km/l |
| CO2 emissions | 189 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm |
| Power | 102 Hp @ 5750 rpm |
| Power per litre | 63.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 145 Nm @ 3750 rpm / 106.95 lb.-ft. @ 3750 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | H4M |
| 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 | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1081 kg / 2383.2 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 1600 kg / 3527.4 lbs. |
| Max load | 519 kg / 1144.2 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%) | 800 kg / 1763.7 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 575 kg / 1267.66 lbs. |
| Length | 4354 mm / 171.42 in. |
| Width | 1733 mm / 68.23 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 1994 mm / 78.5 in. |
| Height | 1529 mm / 60.2 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2635 mm / 103.74 in. |
| Front track | 1496 mm / 58.9 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1486 mm / 58.5 in. |
| Front overhang | 825 mm / 32.48 in. |
| Rear overhang | 894 mm / 35.2 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 145 mm / 5.71 in. |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 4 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 258 mm |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 185/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.0J x 15 |
The Renault Symbol III (facelift 2017) 1.6 16V Automatic represents a pragmatic choice for buyers in its target markets, offering a blend of affordability, practicality, and reasonable performance. While not a vehicle designed for enthusiasts, it fulfills the needs of those seeking a reliable and economical mode of transportation.
