The Renault 689 70 is a 1,997 cc, inline-four petrol engine produced between 1994 and 2001. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout with four valves per cylinder and multi-point fuel injection, delivering smooth power delivery and strong low-rpm torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted to models such as the Laguna I, Safrane, and Espace II, the 689 70 was engineered for balanced performance and fuel efficiency in mid-size vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and a three-way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards across all markets.
One documented concern is premature camshaft lobe wear on early production units, highlighted in Renault Technical Service Bulletin TSB-97-034. This issue stems from insufficient valve train lubrication under prolonged high-load conditions. From 1998, Renault introduced revised camshafts with hardened surfaces and updated oil gallery routing to mitigate the problem.
Production years 1994–1998 meet Euro 2 standards; 1999–2001 models may have Euro 3 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault 689 70 is a 1,997 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive and family vehicles (1994–2001). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with electronic multi-point fuel injection to deliver responsive throttle and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it balances drivability with economical operation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,997 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 92–100 kW (125–136 PS) | |
| Torque | 175–185 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic M3.8.3 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (pre-1999); Euro 3 depending on market | |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (interference design) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W-40) | |
| Dry weight | 138 kg |
The 689 70 provides smooth linear power ideal for motorway cruising but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic interference engine failure. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is critical due to its specific anti-wear additives protecting the camshaft lobes. Extended oil changes or use of non-approved oils increase risk of cam lobe wear. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards to prevent detonation and injector fouling. Pre-1998 engines should be inspected for camshaft wear per Renault SIB 97-034; post-1998 units feature hardened lobes and improved oil flow.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (5W-40) specification (Renault SIB 97-034). Supersedes ACEA A2 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to pre-1999 models only (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). Some 1999–2001 models meet Euro 3 depending on market.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. 136 PS output requires EU3+ fuel quality (Renault TIS Doc. A10223).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs A10223, A10301, SIB 97-034
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault 689 70 was used across Renault's Laguna I/Espace II/Safrane platforms with longitudinal mounting and no licensed external use. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-revised intake manifold geometry in the Laguna and reinforced mountings in the Espace-and from 1998 the facelifted Laguna adopted the 689 70 V6 variant with updated ECU calibration, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the right side of the cylinder block near the starter motor housing (Renault TIS A10223). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('E' for 689 series). Pre-1998 engines have a black plastic timing cover with visible belt tensioner; post-1998 units feature a redesigned tensioner with metal housing. Critical differentiation from 689 70 V6: Original 689 70 has single camshaft position sensor and two spark plugs per cylinder bank, while V6 variants have dual sensors and four plugs per bank. Service parts require production date verification - timing kits for engines before 06/1998 are incompatible with later units due to camshaft profile change (Renault SIB 97-034).
The Renault 689 70's primary reliability risk is premature camshaft lobe wear on pre-1998 units, with elevated incidence in high-mileage applications and extended oil intervals. Internal Renault reports from 1999 indicated nearly 18% of pre-facelift engines required camshaft replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows elevated exhaust emissions failures linked to degraded valve seals in high-use examples. Cold starts and frequent short trips accelerate lubrication starvation at the cam followers, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1997–2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT 689-70.
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 RENAULT 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.
RENAULT 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 officialRENAULT 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.
