The Peugeot XM7 is a 2,975 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1989 and 1994. It features a single overhead camshaft per bank (SOHC), 12 valves, and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form, it delivered 123 kW (167 PS) and 235 Nm of torque, engineered for smooth, effortless power delivery ideal for executive touring.
Fitted exclusively to the XM executive sedan and estate, the XM7 engine was designed for refined, quiet cruising and relaxed motorway performance. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter and basic electronic engine management, meeting Euro 1 standards for its entire production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the distributor drive gear, which can cause ignition timing faults and engine misfires, as noted in Peugeot Technical Note 4301. This issue is often linked to material wear under sustained high-RPM operation. Later service parts incorporated a revised gear material to improve durability.

Peugeot
Production years 1989–1994 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3457).
The Peugeot XM7 is a 2,975 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans (1989-1994). It combines SOHC 12-valve architecture with multi-point injection to deliver smooth, linear power. Designed to meet Euro 1 standards, it prioritizes refinement and low-stress reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,975 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 90.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 123 kW (167 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 235 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | Peugeot 9736.00 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 165 kg |
The SOHC V6 design offers smooth, predictable power ideal for relaxed cruising but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic engine damage. Peugeot 9736.00 (10W-40) oil is recommended. The distributor drive gear is prone to premature wear; inspect during major services. The engine is mechanically robust with proper maintenance; ignition components (distributor, HT leads) are common wear items. Emissions system is basic, relying on the catalytic converter.
Oil Specs: Requires Peugeot 9736.00 specification (Peugeot Service Manual 4301). Equivalent to API SG/CD.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1989–1994 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3457). No market-specific variations.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Output is consistent across model applications (Peugeot Group PT-1992).
Peugeot Technical Information System: Docs 4301
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3457)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code — Net power
The Peugeot XM7 was used exclusively in Peugeot's XM platform with longitudinal mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations or facelift revisions during its production run. All technical specifications are governed by Peugeot documentation.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat boss on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Peugeot TIS 4301). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('7' for XM7). Visually, it features a cast aluminum intake manifold and a centrally-mounted distributor on the front of the engine. Critical differentiation from the later ES9: XM7 has a 12-valve SOHC head and a distributor, while ES9 is 24-valve DOHC with coil packs. Service parts for the distributor drive gear are specific to post-1991 models due to the material update (Peugeot Technical Note 4301).
The XM7's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear, with elevated incidence in higher-mileage or older examples. Peugeot internal service data indicated a common failure point, while owner reports frequently cite ignition faults. Sustained high-RPM operation accelerates wear, making proactive inspection and timely replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Peugeot technical bulletins (1990-1994) and aggregated owner workshop reports (2000-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about PEUGEOT XM7.
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