The Peugeot XR5 is a 1,580 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1996. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with 8 valves and multi-point fuel injection. This engine was designed for balanced performance in Peugeot's compact models, delivering outputs of 66 kW (90 PS) and 130 Nm of torque, providing responsive urban and highway drivability.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 309 and 405, the XR5 engine was engineered for a blend of efficiency and spirited driving. Emissions compliance for its production era was achieved through its electronic fuel injection system and catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 standards for vehicles produced from 1992 onwards.
One documented service consideration is wear in the distributor drive gear, which can lead to ignition timing inaccuracies and misfires. This is noted in Peugeot service documentation for the 309 platform. The engine's design also makes the rear bank of spark plugs somewhat difficult to access, requiring specific tools for routine maintenance.
Production years 1988–1991 meet pre-Euro national standards; 1992–1996 models comply with Euro 1 emissions (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8910).
The Peugeot XR5 is a 1,580 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact family cars (1988-1996). It combines a robust SOHC valvetrain with multi-point fuel injection to deliver reliable, accessible performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards from 1992, it offers a practical balance of power and fuel economy for its era.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,580 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.5 mm × 82.0 mm | |
| Power output | 66 kW (90 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 130 Nm @ 3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch LE Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (1988-1991); Euro 1 (1992-1996) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Mineral 10W‑40 or 15W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 110 kg |
The SOHC design offers good low-end torque for city driving but requires diligent 60,000 km timing belt changes to prevent failure. The Bosch LE Jetronic injection system is generally reliable but can suffer from sensor faults; using quality fuel is recommended. The rear spark plugs are difficult to access, making a specialist socket essential for servicing. Valve clearances should be checked every 40,000 km as per Peugeot service schedules.
Oil Specs: Requires mineral 10W-40 or 15W-40 specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual 1994). ACEA A2 specification is suitable.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to 1992-1996 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8910). Pre-1992 models meet national standards.
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Peugeot TIS Doc. XR5-001).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XR5-001, XR5-002, XR5-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/8910)
EEC Directive 80/1269 Power Measurement Standards
The Peugeot XR5 was used across Peugeot's 309/405 platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All technical specifications are consistent across the model range. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS XR5-001). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code for Peugeot vehicles of this era. Visually, the XR5 is identified by its fuel injection rail and distributor ignition system. It is distinct from carburetted XU-series engines which lack the injection components and from later 16-valve XU engines which have a different cylinder head design.
The XR5's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to age or missed service intervals. Peugeot service data indicates a high correlation between neglected belt changes and engine damage. Additionally, the distributor drive gear is a known wear item on higher-mileage engines, leading to ignition faults. Adherence to the maintenance schedule is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1988-1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2008). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT 142-XR5.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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PEUGEOT Official Site
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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
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