The Renault M9R 754 is a 2,148 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2012 and 2018. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) 16-valve design with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and high-pressure common rail direct injection. This configuration delivers a robust 130 kW (177 PS) and 380 Nm of torque, providing strong, linear power ideal for highway cruising and towing.
Fitted to premium models such as the Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, and Espace IV, the M9R 754 was engineered for refined performance and long-distance comfort. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting stringent Euro 5 standards.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the turbocharger's variable geometry actuator, potentially causing boost control faults. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note DIE‑12‑015, is often linked to carbon buildup from frequent short trips. Renault addressed this with revised actuator calibration in later production runs.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9877).
The Renault M9R 754 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size and large MPVs/sedans (2012-2018). It combines DOHC 16-valve architecture with a variable geometry turbocharger to deliver strong, linear power and efficient operation. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with respectable fuel economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,148 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.4 mm | |
| Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP4 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 185 kg |
The VGT turbo provides ample low-RPM torque ideal for towing but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals using RN0710 (5W-40) oil to protect the chain timing system and turbo bearings. Fuel quality meeting EN 590 standards is critical to prevent premature wear of the Bosch CP4 high-pressure pump. The DPF system requires regular highway driving for passive regeneration; frequent short trips can lead to clogging and limp mode. Turbo actuator operation should be monitored for smoothness; carbon buildup can cause sticking and boost faults.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0710 (5W-40) specification (Renault Technical Note DIE‑12‑015).
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all model years 2012-2018 (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9877).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output consistent across specified fuel grades (Renault TIS Doc. 77 11 392 789).
Renault Technical Information System: Docs 77 11 392 789, DIE‑12‑015
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9877)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault M9R 754 was used across Renault's Laguna III/Mégane III platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts in the Espace for load-bearing-and minor ECU updates for emissions compliance, creating minor software interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on a flat machined surface at the front of the engine block, near the gearbox bellhousing (Renault TIS 77 11 392 789). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code 'R'. Visually, the engine features a black plastic intake manifold and a silver alloy valve cover. Critical differentiation from the earlier M9R 700: The M9R 754 has identical displacement but is calibrated for higher power (177 PS) and always includes a DPF. ECU part numbers are specific to this variant and are not interchangeable with M9R 700 without reprogramming (Renault Technical Note ECU-DPF-2012).
The M9R 754's primary reliability risk is turbocharger actuator failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent short trips. Renault internal service data indicates a notable correlation between actuator faults and incomplete DPF regenerations, while owner reports frequently cite loss of power as the first symptom. Neglecting highway driving significantly increases the risk of costly turbo repairs.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2016) and owner-reported failure data (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-754.
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