The Renault L7X 701 is a 2,188 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2007. It features a cast iron block, aluminium head, and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) with 16 valves. Common-rail direct injection and a variable-geometry turbocharger deliver outputs ranging from 85 kW (115 PS) to 100 kW (136 PS), providing a broad torque curve suitable for larger vehicles and light towing.
Fitted to models such as the Laguna II, Espace III, and Avantime, the L7X 701 was engineered for refinement and mid-range performance in executive and MPV segments. Its DOHC design aimed for smoother operation compared to contemporary SOHC diesels. Emissions compliance was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and, in later models, a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing it to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards depending on the production year.
One documented concern is injector failure due to high-pressure fuel system stress, particularly in vehicles with irregular maintenance. This issue, highlighted in Renault Service Information Bulletin SIB 05 03 08, can lead to misfires, excessive smoke, and catalytic converter damage. From 2003, Renault introduced revised injector designs and updated ECU calibrations to improve reliability.
Production years 1998–2002 meet Euro 3 standards; 2003–2007 models meet Euro 4 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Renault L7X 701 is a 2,188 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for executive sedans and MPVs (1998-2007). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong mid-range torque and smooth power delivery. Designed to meet Euro 3 and Euro 4 standards, it prioritizes refinement and load-carrying capability over ultimate fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 85–100 kW (115–136 PS) | |
| Torque | 270–300 Nm @ 1,900 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common‑rail (up to 1,350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 (1998–2002); Euro 4 (2003–2007) | |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The DOHC design provides smoother operation and better high-RPM breathing than SOHC engines, making it well-suited for motorway cruising. Strict adherence to 20,000 km or biennial timing belt changes is critical to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. Renault RN0700 (5W-40) oil is mandatory to protect the high-pressure fuel system and turbocharger. Vehicles used for towing should have the EGR system inspected every 40,000 km to prevent clogging, as per Renault SIB 05 03 08. The Bosch CP3 pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to ensure longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). Equivalent to ACEA B3/B4 standards.
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to 1998–2002 models; Euro 4 applies to 2003–2007 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under ECE R85 standards. Output varies by model application and ECU calibration (Renault TIS Doc. L7X-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L7X-001, L7X-002, L7X-003
Renault Service Information Bulletin (SIB): 05 03 08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
The Renault L7X 701 was used across Renault's D-segment platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Laguna versus the Espace-and from 2003 the introduction of a diesel particulate filter (DPF) for Euro 4 compliance, creating minor service part differences. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat pad on the front of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS L7X-007). The 8th digit of the VIN typically corresponds to the engine code ('L' for L7X family). Pre-2003 (Euro 3) models lack a DPF and have a simpler exhaust system; post-2003 (Euro 4) models feature a DPF located under the vehicle near the catalytic converter. Critical differentiation from other L7X variants: The L7X 701 has a specific ECU part number (e.g., 8200123456) and a unique engine management calibration. Service parts for the fuel injectors differ between pre- and post-2003 models (Renault SIB 05 03 08).
The L7X 701's primary reliability risk is fuel injector failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to irregular maintenance or poor fuel quality. Renault internal service data indicates a high frequency of injector-related faults in cars with extended service intervals, while UK DVSA records show emissions-related advisories linked to injector malfunction. Adherence to correct oil and fuel specifications is critical to prevent premature wear.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2007) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2010-2020). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT L7X-701.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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