The Renault M9R 780 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 common rail direct injection. Power outputs range from 110 kW (150 PS) to 130 kW (177 PS), with torque figures between 340-380 Nm, providing strong low-end pull for effortless overtaking and towing.
Fitted to premium models like the Laguna III, Mégane III, and Espace IV, the M9R 780 was engineered for refined, high-torque performance in executive and family vehicles. Emissions compliance was achieved through an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system and a diesel particulate filter (DPF), allowing all units to meet Euro 5 standards.
One documented concern is premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump, which can lead to sudden engine shutdown. This issue, referenced in Renault's Technical Note TN 06 12 08, is often linked to fuel contamination or inadequate filtration. Later production runs saw the introduction of revised pump internals and updated fuel filter specifications to mitigate this failure mode.
Production years 2012–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Renault M9R 780 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size and large family vehicles (2012-2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and refined cruising. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,148 cc | |
| Fuel type | Diesel | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 88.0 mm × 88.3 mm | |
| Power output | 110–130 kW (150–177 PS) | |
| Torque | 340–380 Nm @ 1,750–2,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch CP3 common‑rail (up to 1,600 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The VGT turbocharger provides strong low-RPM torque ideal for highway cruising and towing, but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km or annual oil change intervals to prevent turbo and injector wear. Renault RN0720 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its specific additive package for protecting high-pressure fuel system components. Extended idling should be minimized to reduce DPF soot loading. The Bosch CP3 fuel pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) meeting EN 590 standards to prevent internal seizure. EGR and DPF systems require periodic cleaning to maintain emissions compliance and prevent limp-mode events. Fuel filter replacement at 40,000 km is mandatory per Renault TN 06 12 08.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 specification (Renault Owner's Manual). ACEA C4 is the minimum acceptable standard.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all 2012–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output varies by model application and ECU calibration (Renault TIS Doc. M9R-005).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M9R-001, M9R-005
Renault Technical Note (TN): TN 06 12 08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
The Renault M9R 780 was used across Renault's B/C-platform vehicles with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-different engine mounts for the Espace versus the Laguna-but no major facelift revisions that affect core compatibility. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front face of the cylinder block, near the gearbox flange (Renault TIS M9R-001). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code ('R' for M9R series). Visually, the engine is identifiable by its black plastic camshaft cover with "dCi" and "16V" markings, and the Garrett variable geometry turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the earlier M9R 600: The M9R 780 features a revised high-pressure fuel pump and updated ECU software. Service parts, particularly for the fuel system, are not interchangeable between the 600 and 780 variants.
The M9R 780's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to poor fuel quality or extended filter change intervals. Renault internal service data indicates a notable correlation between pump failures and contaminated fuel, while UK DVSA records show DPF regeneration faults as a common advisory item. Maintaining strict fuel quality and adhering to the 40,000 km filter replacement schedule is critical to prevent these issues.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2012-2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-780.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
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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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