The Citroën RGX, designated XU10J2TE, is a 1,995 cc inline-four petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1996. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC), 16-valve configuration with multi-point fuel injection and a catalytic converter, delivering 136 kW (185 PS) and 235 Nm of torque. The high-revving nature of the engine enables strong performance in sport-tuned applications.
Fitted to high-performance variants such as the Citroën BX 4TC, ZX Rallye, and select XM models, the XU10J2TE was engineered for dynamic driving with enhanced throttle response and mid-range punch. Emissions compliance was achieved through closed-loop lambda control and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet Euro 1 standards applicable during its production period.
One documented concern is premature camshaft wear observed in early-series engines, highlighted in PSA Service Bulletin 88-01-12. This issue is attributed to inadequate lubrication flow to the cam journals under sustained high-RPM operation. From 1990, revised oil gallery machining and upgraded camshaft materials were implemented to improve durability.
Production years 1988–1992 meet Euro 1 standards; 1993–1996 models comply with Euro 2 (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Citroën XU10J2TE is a 1,995 cc inline-four petrol engine engineered for performance-oriented models (1988–1996). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver high-RPM power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 1 and later Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances spirited performance with evolving regulatory requirements.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,995 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 85.8 mm | |
| Power output | 136 kW (185 PS) @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multipoint fuel injection (Siemens PMS) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre-1993); Euro 2 (1993–1996) | |
| Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 90,000 km) | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A2) | |
| Dry weight | 142 kg |
The high-revving nature of the XU10J2TE provides engaging performance but demands strict adherence to the 90,000 km timing belt replacement interval to prevent valve-to-piston contact. SAE 10W-40 oil meeting ACEA A2 standards is essential for maintaining camshaft journal lubrication under high-RPM loads. Extended idling or low-speed operation can lead to carbon buildup on intake valves due to lack of direct injection. Pre-1990 engines should be inspected for camshaft wear; revised components from 1990 onward offer improved durability. Emissions systems require periodic lambda sensor checks to maintain catalytic efficiency and prevent misfires.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 (ACEA A2) specification (PSA SIB 88-01-12). Compatible with mineral and semi-synthetic formulations.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to pre-1993 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Euro 2 applies to 1993–1996 production.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output achieved with 98 RON fuel (PSA TIS Doc. XU10-PERF03).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU10-TECH01, XU10-FI02, SIB 88-01-12
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Citroën XU10J2TE was used across Citroën's BX/ZX/XM platforms with transverse mounting and front-wheel drive layout. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shortened intake manifolds in the BX 4TC and revised ECU mapping in the ZX Rallye-and from 1993 the updated XM 2.0i 16V adopted Euro 2-compliant emissions hardware, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the front-facing side of the cylinder block, near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS XU10-ID01). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('H' for XU10J2TE). Pre-1990 units have a silver cam cover with "16V" engraving; post-1993 models use a black cam cover with integrated breather. Critical differentiation from base XU10: XU10J2TE features red valve stem seals, a high-lift cam profile, and a red intake plenum. Service parts require model-year verification—timing belts for pre-1990 engines are not compatible with later Euro 2 revisions due to pulley diameter changes (PSA SIB 92-05-10).
The XU10J2TE's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to missed service intervals, with elevated incidence in high-mileage examples. Internal PSA field reports from 1994 indicated a significant number of pre-1990 engines suffered valve damage from belt breakage, while VCA MOT data shows camshaft wear remains a top cause of engine-related failures in classic Citroën models. High-RPM usage and delayed maintenance increase stress on timing components and cam journals, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1988-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1990-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN RGX-XUJ2TE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with CITROEN or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
CITROEN Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialCITROEN documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
