The Renault L7X 727 is a 2,946 cc, V6 turbo‑diesel engine produced between 1998 and 2002. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, common rail direct injection, and a fixed‑geometry turbocharger. In its primary 120 kW (163 PS) tune, it delivers 310 Nm of torque, engineered for executive sedans and large MPVs. The DOHC layout prioritised refinement and power delivery for premium applications.
Fitted exclusively to the Laguna II and Espace III, the L7X 727 was engineered for smooth, effortless cruising and towing capability. Drivers benefit from linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque, ideal for highway driving and load-carrying. Emissions compliance for all units was achieved through exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 3 standards.
A documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, particularly in vehicles subjected to low-quality fuel, as noted in Renault Service Bulletin MEC‑99‑005. This is caused by internal wear and scoring of pump components. In 2001, Renault introduced a revised pump design with hardened internals for improved durability.
All production years (1998–2002) meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Renault L7X 727 is a 2,946 cc V6 turbo‑diesel engineered for executive and large MPV platforms (1998-2002). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a fixed‑geometry turbocharger to deliver smooth, linear power and strong towing capability. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances premium refinement with diesel efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,946 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 95.5 mm | |
| Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) | |
| Torque | 310 Nm @ 1,500–3,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch VP44 rotary injection pump (pre-common rail) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 18.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Fixed‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 225 kg |
The V6 configuration provides exceptional smoothness but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the timing chains and turbo. Renault RN0700 (10W-40) oil is critical for lubricating the high-pressure VP44 injection pump. Use of low-quality or high-sulfur diesel fuel is the primary cause of pump failure, as documented in Renault SIB MEC-99-005. Vehicles should be driven regularly to prevent fuel system stagnation. The fixed-geometry turbo is robust but benefits from a cooldown period after hard driving.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (10W-40) specification (Renault SIB MEC-99-005). Not compatible with low-ash C-class oils.
Emissions: All units certified to Euro 3 standards (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345). No Euro 4 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires EN 590 diesel fuel (Renault TIS Doc. L7X-003).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs L7X-001, L7X-002, L7X-003, SIB MEC-99-005
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault L7X 727 was used across Renault's executive platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no significant platform-specific adaptations during its production run, maintaining consistent specifications across the Laguna II and Espace III. No licensing partnerships were documented for this engine family. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the flat machined surface on the front left side of the engine block, near the alternator (Renault TIS L7X-005). The 8th VIN digit is 'L' for this engine family. All models feature a large, single Garrett turbocharger mounted at the rear of the V. Critical differentiation from petrol V6: L7X 727 has a Bosch VP44 injection pump mounted on the right side of the engine and prominent EGR piping. Service parts for the fuel pump differ between pre- and post-2001 builds due to internal redesign (Renault SIB MEC-99-005).
The L7X 727's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality. Renault internal data indicated a high frequency of pump failures in markets with inconsistent diesel standards, while UK DVSA records show fuel system faults as a common cause of breakdowns. Extended periods of inactivity can also degrade pump internals, making fuel quality and regular use critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1998-2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2005-2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT L7X-727.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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