The Peugeot XL3 is a 1,360 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1986 and 1992. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with 8 valves and single-point fuel injection, delivering 55 kW (75 PS) and 106 Nm of torque. Its cast‑iron block and aluminium head construction provided a lightweight and economical solution for entry-level models.
Fitted to compact models like the 205 and 309, the XL3 engine was engineered for frugal urban commuting and basic transportation reliability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a basic three-way catalytic converter, allowing it to meet early Euro 1 standards in later production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, which can cause ignition timing drift and misfires. This issue, highlighted in Peugeot Technical Note 3001 A 87, is often linked to material fatigue under high-RPM conditions. Peugeot addressed this by revising the gear material specification in mid-production runs.
Peugeot
Production years 1986–1989 meet pre-Euro standards; 1990–1992 models meet Euro 1 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685).
The Peugeot XL3 is a 1,360 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for supermini applications (1986-1992). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with single-point fuel injection to deliver adequate low-RPM performance and maximum fuel economy. Designed to meet early Euro 1 standards in its final years, it prioritizes simplicity and cost-effective maintenance.
| 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 | 106 Nm @ 3,400 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-point fuel injection (Bosch Mono-Jetronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (pre-1990); Euro 1 (1990–1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires replacement at 80,000 km) | |
| Oil type | PSA B71 2290 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 98 kg |
The SOHC design provides adequate low-RPM torque for city driving but requires strict adherence to 80,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. PSA B71 2290 (10W-40) oil is recommended for optimal engine protection. The Bosch Mono-Jetronic system is sensitive to fuel pressure; a failing fuel pump can cause hesitation and stalling. The distributor drive gear is susceptible to wear; regular inspection is recommended per Technical Note 3001 A 87 to prevent ignition timing issues.
Oil Specs: Requires PSA B71 2290 specification (Peugeot Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA A2.
Emissions: Pre-Euro certification applies to pre-1990 models; Euro 1 for 1990-1992 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5685).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across applications with correct fuel (RON 95) (Peugeot TIS Doc. M89012).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M89012, Tech Note 3001 A 87
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5685)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Peugeot XL3 was used across Peugeot's supermini platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different intake manifolds for the 205 and 309-and shared its core architecture with the Citroën AX. 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 M89012). The 8th VIN digit often corresponds to the engine type ('3' for XL3 in many 205/309 models). Critical differentiation from the carbureted XW3: XL3 has a visible fuel injector rail and throttle body. Service parts, particularly timing belts and distributor gears, require production date verification for compatibility (Peugeot Tech Note 3001 A 87).
The XL3's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in high-RPM, poorly maintained engines. Internal PSA quality reports indicated a notable failure rate for gears in early production, while UK DVSA data shows timing belt neglect as a leading cause of major engine failure. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality oil exacerbate wear, making adherence to service schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1987-1992) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT XL3.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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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
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VCA Certification Portal
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