The Renault C1E 720 is a 898 cc, inline‑three turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2019. It features an aluminium block and head, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 12 valves. Equipped with direct fuel injection and a small, single — scroll turbocharger, it delivers responsive performance with strong low‑end torque for its size.
Fitted to models like the Clio IV and Twingo III, the C1E 720 was engineered to offer a fun, economical petrol option in city cars…
Production years 2012–2019 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8765).
The Renault C1E 720 is a 898 cc inline‑three turbocharged petrol engineered for A‑segment city cars (2012–2019). It combines gasoline direct injection with a single‑scroll turbocharger to deliver peppy low‑end response and efficient urban performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances compact size with surprising power output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 898 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑3, DOHC, 12‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 72.2 mm × 73.1 mm | |
Power output | 66–80 kW (90–109 PS) | |
Torque | 135–160 Nm @ 1,500–4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Gasoline direct injection (GDI) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single‑scroll turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven camshafts | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 or ACEA C2 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 95 kg |
The Renault C1E 720 was developed for Renault's latest A‑segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine features minor calibration differences between the Clio and Twingo but no major mechanical revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The C1E 720's primary reliability risk is turbocharger failure due to oil feed line clogging, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or poorly maintained examples. Renault internal data indicated this was a leading cause of warranty claims for pre-2016 engines, while UK DVSA records show emissions system faults as a common MOT advisory note. Thermal stress and extended service intervals make using the correct oil critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2019) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The C1E 720 can be reliable if maintained meticulously. Its main weakness is the turbocharger, which is susceptible to failure if oil changes are neglected or the wrong oil is used. With strict 15,000 km service intervals using Renault RN0700 5W-30 and attention to intake cleaning, many engines exceed 150,000 km without major issues.
The most critical issue is turbocharger failure due to clogged oil feed lines. Other common problems include intake valve carbon buildup (a trait of direct injection engines), high-pressure fuel pump failure, and ignition coil/spark plug wear. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins.
This 0.9L TCe engine was used in the fourth-generation Renault Clio (2012-2019) and the third-generation Renault Twingo (2014-2019). It was badged as the TCe 90 or TCe 110 depending on the tune and model year.
Yes, modest ECU remaps are possible, typically adding 10-20 kW. The engine and turbo can handle this increase. However, aggressive tuning is not recommended as it can overstress the turbo and exacerbate carbon buildup. Supporting modifications like an upgraded intercooler are recommended for stage 1+ tunes.
Official combined figures are around 4.5 L/100km (63 mpg UK) for the Clio TCe 90. Real-world economy is typically 5.5-6.5 L/100km (43-51 mpg UK) combined, depending on driving style. The small displacement and turbo help efficiency, but aggressive driving can significantly increase consumption.
Yes. The C1E 720 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or skip, the pistons would collide with the valves, causing significant internal engine damage. The timing chain is designed to be durable, but any unusual noises should be investigated.
Renault specifies oil meeting RN0700 or ACEA C2 standards, typically SAE 5W-30. Using the correct low-viscosity, low-SAPS oil is vital for protecting the turbocharger and preventing oil feed line clogging. Change intervals should be strictly adhered to, ideally every 15,000 km or annually.
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.