The Renault S8U 720 is a 1,598 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2013 and 2018. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, common‑rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 81 kW (110 PS) and 260 Nm of torque. This compact diesel was engineered for urban efficiency with strong low‑rpm torque for everyday drivability.
Fitted primarily to the B‑segment Renault Clio IV and Captur, the S8U 720 was designed for fuel‑efficient c…
All production years 2013–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault S8U 720 is a 1,598 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2013–2018). It combines common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver strong low‑rpm torque and efficient urban driving. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances everyday performance with economy.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,598 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 76.0 mm × 88.0 mm | |
Power output | 81 kW (110 PS) | |
Torque | 260 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 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 (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0720 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 128 kg |
The Renault S8U 720 was used across Renault's B0 platform with transverse mounting and shared with Nissan for select European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Captur and revised intake routing in the Clio IV—and from mid-2015 the updated HPFP and ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Nissan's 1.6 dCi units to use the same base engine architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The S8U 720's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear on early builds, with elevated incidence in short-trip urban use. Renault internal data from 2016 indicated a measurable increase in HPFP warranty claims for vehicles under 60,000 km with predominantly urban cycles, while UK DVSA MOT records show DPF-related failures rising after 80,000 km in stop-start conditions. Infrequent highway driving and marginal fuel quality make adherence to oil and fuel specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2014–2018) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2016–2023). 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 S8U 720 offers good efficiency and torque for city use, but early models (2013–mid-2015) had HPFP reliability concerns. Later revisions improved pump durability. With strict adherence to oil changes (RN0720 5W-30) and use of EN 590 diesel, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The top issues are high-pressure fuel pump wear, DPF regeneration failures in urban use, EGR valve coking, and occasional timing chain tensioner rattle. These are documented in Renault service bulletins, particularly SIB 7711A for the fuel pump.
The S8U 720 powered the Renault Clio IV (1.5 dCi 110) and Captur (1.5 dCi 110) from 2013–2018. It was also used in the Nissan Pulsar (1.5 dCi) during the same period under the Renault-Nissan alliance. All variants include a DPF and meet Euro 5 standards.
Yes, but cautiously. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +15–20 kW, though the stock HPFP and turbo limit safe gains. Over-tuning without supporting fuel system upgrades risks premature pump failure. Always use high-quality fuel and maintain OEM oil specs post-tune.
Excellent for its class. In a Clio IV 1.5 dCi 110, expect ~4.5 L/100km (city) and ~3.3 L/100km (highway), or ~63 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 55–65 mpg UK if DPF regeneration cycles are completed regularly.
Yes. The S8U series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps, piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic internal damage. Regular oil changes and prompt attention to chain noise are essential to prevent this.
Renault specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting RN0720 (or newer) standard. This low-SAPS oil protects the DPF and ensures proper lubrication of the timing system and HPFP. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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