A Renault Scenic RX4, seen in Beijing in 2019. The old Renault was in a fine shape, looking as rough as ever and painted in a light shade of green that was the most popular color fir this car in period.
The Renault Megane Scenic RX4 was a 4×4 version of the first generation Megane Scenic MPV. The Megane Scenic was made from 1996 until 2003. The RX4, however, was made for a much shorter time; only from 2000 until 2003. In total, Renault produced about 40.000 units. Interestingly, a few dozens were assembled at BAIC in Beijing, a trial run for a planned joint venture that never happened. As the same time, Renault also officially sold the Megane Scenic and the Megane Scenic RX4 in China as imports.
The RX4 was a serious off-road capable car. It had four-wheel drive with a multi disc central differential in the middle. It got a unique specially designed gearbox. Ride height was raised, and both rear and front wheel suspension were strengthened.
The exterior was dressed up to, with cool black plastic panels, a roof rack, and a totally redesigned rear door with a large spare wheel cover. The third brake light moved to the top of the rear door.
The interior was in a great shape! The original fabric seats look almost as new and the black plastics look good. The original radio CD player is still in place. Power came from a 2.0 petrol engine or a 1.9 diesel, both mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox.
Elf is a motor oil brand, owned by Elf Aquitaine. It is a long time ‘official partner’ of Renault, and in the 1980’s and 1990’s almost every new Renault had these Renault Elf window stickers.
In China, the Renault Scenic RX4 was only available with the 2.0 petrol engine, mated to a five-speed manual. Output was 136 hp and 191 Nm. Renault claimed a top speed of 190 kilometers per hour and a 0-100 in 11.9 seconds. Price in China was 248.000 yuan. That was not a bad deal, as the standard Megane Scenic with the same motor cost 233.000 yuan.
Old school antenna fits nicely with the car’s rough looks. Sporty five-spoke alloy wheels are factory original. These days, not many Megane Scenic RX4 are still on the road. Over the years I have only seen a handful. I will post pictures of the others later on.
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