The Renault J5R 722 is a 1,330 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a twin — scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing. In standard form, it delivers 115 kW (156 PS) and 260 Nm of torque, designed to offer a blend of spirited performance and everyday efficiency for its vehicle class.
Fitted to models such as the Renault Mégane and Nissan Qashqai, the J5R 722 was e…
Production years 2018–2019 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards; 2020–2023 models comply with Euro 6d standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5680).
The Renault J5R 722 is a 1,330 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for compact hatchbacks and SUVs (2018-2023). It combines direct injection with a twin-scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range pull and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 6d-TEMP and Euro 6d standards, it balances performance with strict emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,330 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 72.2 mm × 81.3 mm | |
Power output | 115 kW (156 PS) | |
Torque | 260 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP (2018-2019); Euro 6d (2020-2023) | |
Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single twin-scroll turbo (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN17 5W-30 | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Renault J5R 722 was used across Renault's CMF-CD platform with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-shared ECU calibration with the Nissan Qashqai-and no major facelift revisions occurred during its production, ensuring broad parts interchangeability within its model years. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The J5R 722's primary documented reliability risk is timing chain tensioner wear, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips that prevent the engine from reaching optimal operating temperature. Renault internal data indicates this was a prevalent cause for diagnostic trouble codes and noise complaints in early production batches, while adherence to correct oil specification and service intervals is critical for long-term turbo and GPF health.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2018-2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2020-2024). 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 J5R 722 is a potent and efficient engine, but its main documented issue is the timing chain tensioner, which is a known, fixable fault covered in a service bulletin. Using the correct RN17 5W-30 oil and adhering to service intervals is crucial for protecting the turbo, GPF, and timing components. Vehicles driven with regular highway use tend to have fewer long-term issues.
The most common documented problems are timing chain tensioner wear (causing rattling noises), intake valve carbon buildup (causing rough running), GPF clogging (due to short trips), and turbo wastegate actuator failure. These are covered in Renault service bulletins and are generally repairable.
The J5R 722 1.3L TCe engine was primarily used in the fourth-generation Renault Mégane (2018-2023) and its platform sibling, the Nissan Qashqai (2018-2021). It was offered in the TCe 160 and DIG-T 160 trim levels, providing a sportier alternative to the naturally aspirated engines.
Yes, ECU remapping is very common and can safely increase power to around 190-200 PS and torque to 300-320 Nm. The engine's internals and turbo are generally robust enough for a Stage 1 remap. However, increased power and heat put more strain on the timing chain tensioner and GPF, potentially exacerbating known reliability concerns.
Official combined figures for the Mégane TCe 160 are around 5.8 L/100km (49 mpg UK). Real-world economy varies: expect 7.0-8.5 L/100km (33-40 mpg UK) in mixed driving. Aggressive driving or frequent short trips will significantly reduce fuel economy and increase GPF regeneration frequency.
Yes. The J5R 722 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or skip due to tensioner wear, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal engine damage. Prompt attention to any timing chain noise is critical.
Renault mandates the use of RN17 specification 5W-30 synthetic oil. This low-SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oil is specifically formulated to protect the GPF from clogging and to ensure proper lubrication of the turbocharger and timing chain.
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.