The Renault M9R 786 is a 2,148 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2015 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 130 kW (177 PS) tune, it produces 380 Nm, positioning it as the highest-output variant within the M9R family for performance-oriented applications.
Fitted exclusively to premium variants of the Talisman and Espace V, the M9R 786 was engineered for refined, powerful cruising with an emphasis on overtaking ability and towing stability. Emissions compliance for its production period was achieved through a diesel particulate filter (DPF) and cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), meeting Euro 6 standards.
One documented service concern involves premature failure of the high-pressure fuel pump’s internal pressure regulator, which can lead to hard starting or no-start conditions. This issue is addressed in Renault Service Information Bulletin 786‑FUE‑01, which details the diagnostic procedure and specifies the updated fuel pump assembly for affected engines.
All production years (2015–2018) meet Euro 6 compliance depending on market (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9877).
The Renault M9R 786 is a 2,148 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for premium executive vehicles (2015-2018). 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 6 standards, it balances elevated power output with stringent emissions 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 | 130 kW (177 PS) @ 3,750 rpm | |
| Torque | 380 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Denso HP4 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6 | |
| 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 VGT turbocharger provides strong, linear power delivery ideal for overtaking and towing, but demands strict adherence to 20,000 km oil change intervals to prevent fuel system and turbo degradation. Renault RN0720 (5W-30) oil is critical due to its low-ash formulation protecting the DPF and high-pressure fuel pump. Extended idling or short trips should be minimized to ensure proper DPF regeneration. The Denso HP4 fuel pump requires ultra-low-sulfur diesel (ULSD) to prevent premature wear. Vehicles experiencing hard starting should have the fuel pump inspected or replaced per Renault SIB 786-FUE-01.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0720 (5W-30) specification (Renault SIB 786-OIL-01). Meets ACEA C4 requirements.
Emissions: Euro 6 certification applies to all 2015–2018 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9877).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model range (Renault TIS Doc. M9R-786-02).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M9R-786-01, M9R-786-02, SIB 786-FUE-01, SIB 786-OIL-01
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9877)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault M9R 786 was used across Renault's Talisman and Espace V platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-slightly different exhaust routing for the Espace-but no major facelift revisions affecting core compatibility occurred during its production run. 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 auxiliary drive belt (Renault TIS M9R-786-01). The 8th VIN digit typically corresponds to the engine code '8'. Visually, the engine is identified by its silver cam cover with "dCi 177" badging and the Garrett turbocharger on the exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from the lower-powered M9R 748: The M9R 786 has a higher-output ECU map and specific fuel pump calibration. Service parts are generally compatible across all model years, though ECU software versions may differ.
The M9R 786's primary documented service concern is high-pressure fuel pump failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent use of low-quality diesel or neglected fuel filter changes. Renault internal data indicates this was a common cause for no-start 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 (2015-2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2018-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT M9R-786.
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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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