The Peugeot XM refers to a range of petrol engines fitted to the XM executive car, primarily the 2,975 cc V6 (ES9J) and 1,998 cc inline‑four (XU10) variants produced between 1989 and 2000. These engines featured cast-iron or aluminum blocks, twin-cam configurations, and multi-point fuel injection. The flagship V6 delivered up to 147 kW (200 PS), providing smooth, powerful performance for its class.
Fitted exclusively to the XM model, these engines were engineered for refined, comfortable cruising and effortless acceleration. Emissions compliance for their era was managed through catalytic converters and evolving engine management systems, allowing early models to meet Euro 1 standards, with later variants achieving Euro 2 compliance.
A documented concern for the V6 variant is premature failure of the plastic inlet manifold, which can crack and cause vacuum leaks or coolant ingress. This issue, highlighted in Peugeot Service Information Bulletin SIB 0805, is often linked to thermal cycling and material fatigue over time.
Peugeot
Production years 1989–1996 meet Euro 1 standards; 1996–2000 models meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
The Peugeot XM petrol engines (primarily ES9J V6 and XU10 I4) are inline‑four and V6 units engineered for executive sedans (1989-2000). They combine DOHC architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, linear power and a refined driving experience. Designed to meet Euro 1 and Euro 2 standards, they prioritize comfort over ultimate efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998–2,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4 or V6, DOHC, 16/24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | Varies by engine (e.g., V6: 90.0 mm × 78.0 mm) | |
| Power output | 94–147 kW (128–200 PS) | |
| Torque | 170–280 Nm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point fuel injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 (pre‑1996); Euro 2 (1996–2000) | |
| Compression ratio | Varies (e.g., V6: 10.4:1) | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 (e.g., SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | Varies (e.g., V6: ~180 kg) |
The V6 configuration provides a smooth, vibration-free power delivery but demands attention to the plastic inlet manifold, which is prone to cracking as per Peugeot SIB 0805. ACEA A3/B3 oil is recommended for optimal engine protection. The belt-driven timing system requires strict 60,000 km replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Coolant should be replaced at recommended intervals to prevent corrosion and manifold gasket failure.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 specification oil (Peugeot Owner's Manual). Mineral or semi-synthetic 10W-40 commonly used.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to pre-1996 models; Euro 2 for 1996-2000 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3210).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Output varies significantly by specific engine variant (Peugeot TIS Doc. XU-ES9-001).
Peugeot Technical Information System (TIS): Docs XU-ES9-001, XU-ES9-002, XU-ES9-003
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3210)
EEC Directive 80/1269/EEC - Engine Power Measurement
The Peugeot XM petrol engines were used exclusively in the Peugeot XM platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine range received minor platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts and ancillary layouts between the inline-four and V6 variants-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the cylinder block, typically near the gearbox flange or on the front face of the block (Peugeot TIS XU-ES9-005). Common codes include "XU10" for the 2.0L and "ES9J" for the 3.0L V6. Visually, the V6 is identifiable by its 60-degree layout and the distinctive plastic inlet manifold. Differentiate between variants by displacement badges on the boot lid and specific engine cover markings. Service parts are specific to each engine variant within the XM range.
The XM's primary reliability risk, particularly for the V6, is inlet manifold failure, often linked to thermal stress and material fatigue. Peugeot SIB 0805 documents this issue, while owner club data suggests a correlation between neglected coolant maintenance and premature manifold cracking. Adherence to strict coolant replacement intervals is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1989-2000) and aggregated owner club failure reports. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT XM.
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.
