The Peugeot KF6 is a 2,946 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features an aluminium alloy block and heads with double overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder. This engine, part of PSA's ES/L engine family co — developed with Renault, was designed for smooth, refined power delivery in executive vehicles.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 607 and Citroën C5, the KF6 was engineered for quiet, effortless cruising and stron…
Production years 1997–2001 meet Euro 3 standards for passenger vehicles (UTAC Type Approval).
The Peugeot KF6 is a 2,946 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1997-2001). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with a DOHC 24-valve cylinder head to deliver smooth, linear power and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it prioritized NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) refinement for luxury applications.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,946 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 82.6 mm | |
Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 6,000 rpm | |
Torque | 285 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SAGEM) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain-driven (maintenance-free design) | |
Oil type | 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
Dry weight | Not available in public OEM docs |
The Peugeot KF6 was used primarily in Peugeot's flagship executive sedan with longitudinal mounting. This engine was the top petrol unit for the first-generation 607 and was also fitted to the equivalent Citroën C5 V6 models. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The KF6's primary reliability risk is coolant system failure due to degraded plastic components, which can lead to rapid engine overheating. PSA internal service data and owner club records consistently highlight this as a common cause of breakdowns in higher-mileage vehicles. Neglecting this preventative maintenance or using incorrect oil can significantly increase the risk of major mechanical failure, making proactive component replacement critical.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1997-2001) and aggregated data from Peugeot/Citroën owner club technical forums. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The KF6 can be very reliable long-term if the known coolant system weaknesses are addressed proactively. Its main vulnerability is the plastic coolant components. By replacing these with revised parts and adhering to strict oil change intervals, these smooth V6 engines are known to exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The most critical problem is coolant leaks from the plastic elbows and thermostat housing. Other common issues include failure of the variable intake manifold actuators, noisy hydraulic tappets, and ignition coil failure. All are well-documented in PSA service literature.
The KF6 engine is found in the Peugeot 607 (1999-2001) and the Citroën C5 V6 (2001, very limited production). It was the flagship 2.9L V6 petrol engine for these executive models, positioned above the 2.2L V6 and various four-cylinder units.
Yes, the KF6 responds well to basic modifications. Stage 1 tuning typically involves a performance air filter, free-flow exhaust, and ECU remap, yielding 10-20 kW gains. More extensive modifications like camshafts and head work are possible but less common due to the engine's age and niche application.
Fuel economy is moderate for its size and power. Expect around 11.0-12.0 L/100km (26-24 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Peugeot 607. Highway cruising can see figures closer to 8.5-9.5 L/100km (33-30 mpg UK), while city driving will consume significantly more, around 14.0-16.0 L/100km (20-18 mpg UK).
Yes. The KF6 is an interference engine. While it uses a timing chain designed for longevity, any failure of the chain or tensioner that causes timing to jump will result in piston-to-valve contact and severe internal engine damage.
PSA originally specified a 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil. A modern, high-quality 10W-40 full synthetic oil meeting ACEA A3/B3 specification is an excellent and recommended choice, offering better high-temperature protection and engine cleanliness, especially for an engine with hydraulic tappets.
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 PEUGEOT 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.
PEUGEOT 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 officialPEUGEOT 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.