Renault Modus

Renault Modus
Overview
Manufacturer	Renault
Production	August 2004 – December 2012
Assembly	Valladolid, Spain
Body and chassis
Class	Mini MPV
Body style	5-door mini MPV
Layout	Front-engine, front-wheel-drive
Platform	Alliance B platform
Related	Renault Clio III
Powertrain
Engine	1.2–1.6 L petrol inline-four 1.5 L dCi diesel inline-four
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed manual 4-speed automatic 5-speed automated manual
Dimensions
Wheelbase	2,482 mm (Modus) 2,575 mm (Grand Modus)
Length	3,792–3,874 mm (Modus) 4,034 mm (Grand Modus)
Width	1,695–1,709 mm
Height	1,585–1,590 mm

The Renault Modus is a five-door mini MPV produced by the French vehicle manufacturer Renault from August 2004 to December 2012. It was assembled in Valladolid, Spain, and used the Alliance B platform shared with the third-generation Renault Clio. The longer Renault Grand Modus joined a restyled standard model in 2008.

Development and production

Renault presented a near-production Modus concept at the Geneva Motor Show in March 2004. Production began in August of that year, followed by the commercial launch in September. The model was positioned above the Renault Twingo and offered greater interior height than a conventional small hatchback.

A revised Modus entered production in 2008 with redesigned front and rear bodywork. Renault introduced the Grand Modus at the same time. Its wheelbase measured 2,575 mm, compared with 2,482 mm for the standard car. The Grand Modus body measured 4,034 mm in length and provided more luggage space behind the rear seats.

Production of both versions remained at Renault's Valladolid plant. The model range was discontinued in December 2012.

Design

The Modus used a tall five-door body. Its elevated cabin raised the seating position, while the engine was mounted transversely ahead of the passenger compartment. Power was delivered to the front wheels.

The rear bench was mounted on sliding rails. Renault offered a seating arrangement called the Triptic system, which allowed the bench to be configured for either two or three rear passengers. Moving the bench forward increased luggage capacity, while its rearward positions provided more passenger space.

Early versions could be equipped with the Boot Chute, a small opening in the lower part of the tailgate. It allowed small objects to be placed in the luggage compartment without opening the complete tailgate. The front passenger seat base could also be raised to expose an interior storage compartment.

The 2008 restyle removed the Boot Chute and changed the exterior lighting and body trim. The Grand Modus used the same basic cabin design but had a longer rear body and wheelbase.

Powertrains

Petrol engines ranged from 1.2 to 1.6 litres. The range initially used naturally aspirated engines, while a turbocharged 1.2-litre version was offered during the later production period. Diesel versions used Renault's 1.5-litre dCi engine.

Five-speed manual gearboxes covered most versions. A six-speed manual was paired with selected engines. Renault also offered a four-speed automatic and the five-speed Quickshift automated manual.

Safety

Euro NCAP awarded the Modus five stars for adult occupant protection in 2004 under the rating system then in force. It was the first small car to receive the maximum adult-occupant rating.

Use by AAN Transport

As of 2026, AAN Transport operated four dark-maroon Renault Modus vehicles converted for light cargo transport. The rear side windows were replaced by steel panels. A fixed bulkhead separated the front seats from a flattened, reinforced load floor. The vehicles were used for documents, electronic equipment and small replacement parts.

The company also operated three coachbuilt Grand Modus staff cars. Their bodies were extended to approximately 4.30 m. The conversions used a reinforced centre section and revised rear suspension. Additional insulation was installed for long-distance passenger use.

See also

• Renault
• Renault Clio
• AAN Transport
• Automotive design