The Peugeot L6A (XU7JP) is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1992 and 2001. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder. This engine, part of PSA's XU family, was designed for economy and reliability in compact hatchbacks and sedans.
Fitted primarily to the Peugeot 306 and Citroën ZX, the L6A was engineered for responsive urban driving and low running costs. Emissions compliance for its production period was managed through multi-point fuel injection and a catalytic converter, meeting Euro 1 and later Euro 2 standards for its primary market.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive belt, which can lead to ignition and fuel pump timing failure. This issue, referenced in PSA service documentation, is often linked to infrequent replacement intervals. PSA service schedules were updated to recommend more frequent inspections for this component.
Production years 1992–1996 meet Euro 1 standards; 1997–2001 models meet Euro 2 standards (UTAC Type Approval).
The Peugeot L6A (XU7JP) is a 1,360 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and sedans (1992-2001). It combines multi-point fuel injection with a simple SOHC 8-valve cylinder head to deliver frugal, reliable performance. Designed to meet Euro 1 and Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritized low cost and ease of maintenance for high-mileage use.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,360 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 77.0 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 110 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (1992-1996); Euro 2 (1997-2001) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires 60,000 km/4 yr replacement) | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic | |
| Dry weight | Not available in public OEM docs |
The simple SOHC design offers good reliability but requires strict adherence to the timing and distributor belt replacement schedule. Using the specified 10W-40 oil is essential for protecting the hydraulic tappets. The Bosch Motronic system is generally robust but requires clean fuel and functioning sensors. Neglecting the distributor drive belt, a known failure point documented in PSA bulletins, can lead to sudden loss of ignition and fuel delivery.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic specification (PSA Service Manual 9615). Modern ACEA A3/B3 10W-40 is an acceptable equivalent.
Emissions: Certified to Euro 1 (pre-1997) and Euro 2 (post-1996) standards (UTAC Type Approval).
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards (PSA Group PT-1995). Output is consistent across verified applications.
PSA Service Manual 9615 (XU Engine Family)
PSA Technical Bulletin TB 9615/01
UTAC (Union Technique de l'Automobile) Type Approval Archives
PSA Group Powertrain Specifications (PT-1995)
The Peugeot L6A (XU7JP) was used primarily in Peugeot's compact models with transverse mounting. This engine was the base petrol unit for the first-generation 306 and was also fitted to the equivalent Citroën ZX. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The engine code "L6A" or "XU7JP" is typically stamped on a flat pad on the front face of the cylinder block, below the exhaust manifold. The 8th digit of the VIN for a Peugeot 306 with this engine is often 'F'. Key visual identifiers include the black plastic cam cover with "1.4" and the presence of a distributor (early models) or coil packs (later models). Critical differentiation from the larger XU9 (1.9L): The L6A has a smaller displacement and a visibly shorter engine block.
The L6A's primary reliability risk is distributor drive belt failure, which will cause the engine to stop running. PSA service data and owner club records consistently highlight this as a common cause of roadside breakdowns, particularly in vehicles where the belt was not replaced with the main timing belt. Neglecting the 60,000 km service interval for both belts or using incorrect oil viscosity can significantly increase the risk of major inconvenience.
Analysis derived from PSA technical bulletins (1992-2001) and aggregated data from Peugeot/Citroën owner club technical forums. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT L6A-XU7JP.
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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