The Citroen UFZ (ZPJ/Z) is a 1,199 cc, inline-three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2014 and 2020. Part of the PSA-Empire joint-venture "EB" engine family developed with Dongfeng and used across the Stellantis group, it delivers responsive performance in a compact footprint. Equipped with a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multi-point fuel injection, and a low-inertia turbocharger, it produces 81 kW (110 PS) with 170 Nm of torque, enabling strong low-end pull ideal for urban and suburban driving.
Fitted primarily to the Citroën C3 and Peugeot 208, the UFZ (ZPJ/Z) was engineered for modern efficiency and emissions compliance. It features a compact turbo layout with integrated exhaust manifold, enabling rapid spool-up and reduced turbo lag. Emissions control meets Euro 5b standards via a three-way catalytic converter, closed-loop lambda control, and an integrated starter-generator (ISG) in stop-start variants.
One documented concern is premature turbocharger wastegate actuator sticking observed in certain 2014–2016 production units, highlighted in PSA Technical Bulletin TGB007. This issue is attributed to carbon buildup and thermal stress on early actuator linkages. From 2017 onward, a revised actuator with improved heat shielding and updated ECU mapping was implemented to enhance reliability.
Production years 2014–2020 meet Euro 5b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
The Citroen UFZ (ZPJ/Z) is a 1,199 cc inline-three turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (2014–2020). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with a low-inertia turbocharger to deliver responsive, torque-rich performance. Designed to meet Euro 5b emissions standards, it balances drivability with fuel efficiency and low emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,199 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-3, SOHC, 12-valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
| Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 170 Nm @ 1,750–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Continental SIM2K) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5b | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single low-inertia turbo (BorgWarner, integrated exhaust manifold) | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interval: 100,000 km or 5 years) | |
| Oil type | SAE 5W-30, ACEA C3 | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The turbocharged SOHC design provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for city driving, but demands strict timing belt maintenance to prevent engine damage. SAE 5W-30 ACEA C3 oil is required due to the turbocharger and emissions-sensitive components. Cold-start idling should be minimized to reduce wear and carbon buildup. The Continental SIM2K injection system requires periodic injector cleaning to maintain fuel atomization and idle stability. Post-2017 models feature improved wastegate actuator design; pre-2017 engines should be inspected for actuator binding per PSA TGB007. The three-way catalytic converter requires unleaded fuel meeting EN 228 standards to prevent poisoning.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA C3 specification (PSA SIB TGB007). BMW Longlife or VW 502 00 not compatible.
Emissions: Euro 5b certification applies to all UFZ (ZPJ/Z) models (2014–2020) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9123).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output consistent across fuel qualities meeting EN 228 (PSA TIS ZPJ012).
PSA Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ZPJ001, ZPJ002, ZPJ012, TGB007
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9123)
ISO 1585:1996 Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Citroen UFZ (ZPJ/Z) was used across Citroen's C3 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Peugeot under PSA platform commonality. This engine received model-specific tuning-for sharper throttle response in the C3-and from 2017 the updated turbo actuator with revised heat shielding, creating interchange limits. Partnerships within the Stellantis Group allowed Peugeot's 208 to use identical powertrain calibration. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped horizontally on the right-side of the cylinder block near the exhaust manifold (PSA TIS ZPJ005). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine type ('U' for UFZ series). Pre-2017 models have a silver cam cover with black intake manifold; post-2017 units use black cam covers. Critical differentiation from ZJZ: UFZ (ZPJ/Z) has Continental SIM2K ECU with rectangular diagnostic connector, while ZJZ uses Magneti Marelli with round port. Service parts require production date verification - turbo actuators for engines before 06/2017 are incompatible with later revised units (PSA SIB TGB007).
The UFZ (ZPJ/Z)'s primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles. PSA internal reports from 2017 noted a significant number of pre-2017 engines requiring actuator replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show emissions-related failures linked to turbo performance. Extended stop-start cycles and short-trip driving increase carbon risk, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (2014-2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016-2022). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about CITROEN UFZ-ZPJZ.
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