The Renault M9R 748 is a 2,148 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 16 valves, and a single variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) for responsive low — end torque. In its primary 120 kW (163 PS) tune, it produces 380 Nm, positioning it as the higher — output variant within the M9R family for performance — oriented applications.
Fitted to premium variants of the Laguna III, Latitude, and Talisman, the M…
Production years 2012–2014 meet Euro 5 standards; 2015–2018 models meet Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9876).
The Renault M9R 748 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium sedans and executive vehicles (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, accessible torque and confident highway performance. Designed to meet Euro 5 and Euro 6 standards, it balances elevated power output with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,148 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 95.0 mm | |
Power output | 120 kW (163 PS) @ 4,000 rpm | |
Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Denso HP4 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 (2012–2014); Euro 6 (2015–2018) | |
Compression ratio | 15.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain-driven | |
Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 168 kg |
The Renault M9R 748 was used across Renault's Laguna III and Talisman platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-slightly different exhaust routing for the Latitude-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production run. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The M9R 748's primary documented service concern is turbocharger actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent aggressive driving or neglected maintenance. Renault internal data indicates this was a common cause for power-loss complaints, while UK DVSA records show no systemic emissions failures linked to this engine. Adherence to maintenance schedules and using correct fuel is critical to mitigate this risk.
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 M9R 748 is generally robust, but its main weakness is the turbocharger VGT actuator, which can fail prematurely under harsh conditions. With regular oil changes using RN0720 specification oil, use of high-quality diesel, and addressing boost issues promptly, these engines can reliably exceed 200,000 km. The timing chain is durable and rarely a concern.
The most frequent issues are turbocharger VGT actuator failure (causing loss of power), EGR valve/carbon buildup, DPF regeneration problems (often from short trips), and high-pressure fuel pump failure. These are well-documented in Renault service bulletins and are common across many modern diesel engines.
The M9R 748 2.1L dCi 163 engine was used in the Renault Laguna III (2012-2015), Latitude (2012-2015), and Talisman (2015-2018). It was typically the top-tier diesel option in these models, positioned above the 150 PS variants, and found in higher trim levels like Initiale and GT Line.
Yes, the M9R 748 responds very well to ECU remapping. Stage 1 tunes can reliably increase power to around 200-210 PS and torque to 450+ Nm by optimizing fuel and boost maps. The engine's internals are strong enough to handle this level of tuning. More aggressive tuning requires supporting modifications like an upgraded intercooler.
Real-world fuel economy is good considering its power output. Expect around 7.5 L/100km (38 mpg UK) in combined driving for a Talisman or Latitude. Highway cruising can see figures closer to 6.0 L/100km (47 mpg UK), while city driving may be 9.5 L/100km (30 mpg UK) or higher, depending on traffic and driving style.
Yes. The M9R 748 is an interference engine. If the timing chain were to fail or jump significantly, the pistons would collide with the open valves, causing catastrophic internal damage. Fortunately, the timing chain is very robust and rarely fails if the engine is properly maintained.
Renault specifies RN0720 specification oil, typically SAE 5W-30 viscosity. This low-SAPS (Sulphated Ash, Phosphorus, Sulphur) oil is crucial for protecting the DPF and ensuring the longevity of the turbocharger and fuel system. Oil should be changed every 20,000 km or annually.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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
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