The Renault K4M 790 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design with 16 valves and multi‑point fuel injection, delivering outputs of 80 kW (109 PS) and 148 Nm of torque. Its cast iron block provides durability for everyday urban and highway driving.
Fitted to models such as the Clio IV, Captur, and Twingo GT, the K4M 790 was engineered for responsive performance and fuel efficiency. Emissions com…
Production years 2012–2015 meet Euro 5 standards; 2016–2018 models meet Euro 6 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Renault K4M 790 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact and city vehicles (2012-2018). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 16‑valve architecture to deliver responsive performance and good fuel economy. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it offers a balance of reliability and efficiency for daily driving.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 79.5 mm × 80.5 mm | |
Power output | 80 kW (109 PS) @ 5,750 rpm | |
Torque | 148 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi‑point fuel injection (Siemens) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2015); Euro 6 (2016–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 9.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt‑driven (requires replacement at 120,000 km) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 112 kg |
The Renault K4M 790 was used across Renault's B‑segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Captur and revised intake manifolds for the Clio IV-creating minor part number variations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The K4M 790's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear, with elevated incidence in high-mileage engines subjected to frequent high-RPM use. Renault internal data indicated a measurable failure rate in engines exceeding 150,000 km, while timing belt neglect remains a leading cause of catastrophic engine failure. Extended oil change intervals and aggressive driving make adherence to the 120,000 km belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). 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 K4M 790 is generally robust with a cast iron block, but long-term reliability hinges on strict maintenance. The critical 120,000 km timing belt change is non-negotiable. High-mileage engines (>150,000 km) may develop exhaust camshaft wear. Using the correct 5W‑40 oil and adhering to service intervals ensures good longevity.
The top issues are exhaust camshaft lobe wear (causing misfires), timing belt failure (leading to engine destruction), individual ignition coil failure (causing misfires), and valve cover gasket leaks. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and are often linked to maintenance neglect.
This 1.6L petrol engine was used in the Renault Clio IV (2012-2018), Captur (2013-2018), and Twingo GT (2015-2018). It was typically badged as the '1.6 16V' in Clio and Captur models and simply '1.6' in the Twingo GT.
Yes, but gains are modest. An ECU remap can yield an extra 5-10 kW by optimizing ignition and fuel maps. Significant power increases require forced induction (turbo/supercharger), which is complex and expensive. Most tuning focuses on improving throttle response rather than large power gains.
Real-world fuel economy is reasonable. Expect around 7.0 L/100km (40 mpg UK) in mixed driving for a Clio IV, and up to 6.0 L/100km (47 mpg UK) on a steady highway run. City driving can see figures closer to 8.5 L/100km (33 mpg UK), depending on traffic and driving style.
Yes. The K4M 790 is an interference engine. If the timing belt breaks or jumps, the pistons will collide with the open valves, causing severe and expensive internal damage. This makes the 120,000 km belt replacement interval absolutely critical.
Renault specifies 5W‑40 synthetic oil meeting the RN0700 standard. Using the correct specification is vital for protecting the engine, especially the valve train. Change intervals should be 15,000 km or 12 months, or 10,000 km for severe use (short trips, towing).
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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