The Renault G8T 790 is a 2,188 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features a cast iron block, aluminum cylinder head, and a fixed-geometry turbocharger, delivering outputs between 66–80 kW (90–109 PS). Indirect injection with a Bosch VP44 distributor pump provides robust operation, prioritizing durability over peak efficiency.
Fitted to models such as the Laguna I, Espace III, and Master van, the G8T 790 was engineered for strong low-end torque and dependable commercial or family use. Emissions compliance was achieved through basic exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing these units to meet Euro 2 standards across their production run.
One documented concern is premature failure of the vacuum-operated turbocharger wastegate actuator, which can lead to overboost conditions and potential engine damage. This issue, referenced in Renault Service Bulletin 5011A, is often linked to diaphragm rupture or linkage corrosion in high-mileage units. Renault addressed this in later G-series variants with revised actuator materials and lubrication.
Production years 1997–2001 meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5677).
The Renault G8T 790 is a 2,188 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size family and light commercial vehicles (1997-2001). It combines indirect injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑end pulling power and mechanical simplicity. Designed to meet Euro 2 standards, it prioritizes ruggedness and ease of repair over refinement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.4 mm | |
| Power output | 66–80 kW (90–109 PS) | |
| Torque | 190–235 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP44 rotary distributor pump (indirect injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 21.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) with vacuum actuator | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (requires scheduled replacement) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 15W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The fixed-geometry turbo and indirect injection provide predictable, robust performance but lack the efficiency and refinement of later common-rail engines. Strict adherence to 10,000 km or annual oil changes with RN0700 specification is critical to protect the timing belt and turbocharger. Standard diesel fuel meeting EN 590 standards is sufficient. The timing belt must be replaced at 100,000 km or 4 years to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Turbo actuator diaphragms should be inspected for splits during routine service, as per Renault SIB 5011A.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (15W-40) specification (Renault SIB 5011A). ACEA B3 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1997–2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5677).
Power Ratings: Measured under EEC 80/1269 standards. Peak output requires fuel meeting EN 590 Class A (Renault TIS Doc. G8T‑005).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs G8T‑001, G8T‑002, G8T‑005, SIB 5011A
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5677)
European Economic Community Directive 80/1269/EEC
The Renault G8T 790 was used across Renault's Laguna I and Espace III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Master van and revised exhaust manifolds for the Trafic-creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, just below the cylinder head (Renault TIS G8T‑006). The 8th VIN digit typically indicates engine displacement ('G' for 2.2L dT). Visually, the G8T 790 can be identified by its black plastic rocker cover with "dTi" branding and the Garrett turbocharger with a prominent vacuum actuator on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from later F-series engines: The G8T uses indirect injection with a visible Bosch VP44 pump on the side of the engine, while F-series engines use common-rail direct injection. Service parts for the fuel system are unique to the G8T series.
The G8T 790's primary reliability risk is turbocharger wastegate actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles operating in humid or coastal environments. Renault internal reports from 2002 indicated a significant number of actuators required replacement before 120,000 km, while owner club data suggests injector pump seal leaks are a frequent secondary issue. Extended oil change intervals make adherence to the RN0700 oil specification and strict timing belt changes critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2000-2003) and owner club aggregated failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT G8T-790.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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RENAULT Official Site
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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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