The Renault Z7W 712 is a 3,791 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2015 and 2020. It features port fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) with variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts, and a 24‑valve architecture. In standard form it delivers 224 kW (305 PS) and 385 Nm of torque, engineered for high‑rpm power delivery and refined performance in premium applications.
Fitted to flagship models such as the Talisman Initiale Pa…
All production years (2015–2020) meet Euro 6b standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5123).
The Renault Z7W 712 is a 3,791 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium large sedans and MPVs (2015–2020). It combines port fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts and dual‑VVT (intake and exhaust) to deliver linear high‑rpm power and refined grand touring performance. Designed to meet Euro 6b standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 3,791 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 95.5 mm × 88.3 mm | |
Power output | 224 kW (305 PS) | |
Torque | 385 Nm @ 3,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Multi-point port injection (Bosch ME17.4) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6b | |
Compression ratio | 11.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0710 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 182 kg |
The Renault Z7W 712 was used exclusively in Renault's premium large platforms with longitudinal mounting and no cross-manufacturer licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Talisman and revised engine mounts in the Espace V—and from 2018 the facelifted Espace V adopted updated ECU calibrations for smoother VVT transitions, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Z7W 712's primary reliability risk is dual-VVT solenoid seal leakage, with elevated incidence in vehicles subjected to frequent high-load motorway use. Renault internal field data (2018) indicated a measurable increase in cam phaser DTCs and oil seepage for vehicles with >50% highway driving before 90,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT data shows catalytic converter failures rising after 110,000 km in rich-running conditions. Extended high-RPM operation and infrequent oil changes accelerate seal degradation, making oil specification and service interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2016–2020) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2017–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The Z7W 712 offers smooth high-revving power and excellent refinement, but early units (2015–2017) have known dual-VVT solenoid seal issues under sustained high-load use. Post-2017 revisions improved durability. With strict adherence to oil changes (Renault RN0710, every 15,000 km) and use of RON 98 fuel, it can be reliable beyond 200,000 km.
Top issues include dual-VVT solenoid seal leakage, catalytic converter degradation due to rich mixtures, intake manifold runner actuator failure, and secondary air injection pump faults. These are documented in Renault SIB 15C12 and TIS updates, not anecdotal reports.
The TCe 305 (Z7W 712) appears exclusively in the Talisman (2015–2020) and Espace V (2015–2020) in Initiale Paris trim. It was not shared with Nissan or other manufacturers.
Modest gains are possible. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +10–15 kW by optimizing ignition and VVT timing, leveraging the robust bottom end. However, the port-injected design limits airflow—significant power increases require forced induction, which is not OEM-supported and risks reliability.
Moderate for its class. In a Talisman TCe 305, expect ~13.2 L/100km (city) and ~8.1 L/100km (highway), or ~22 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 20–24 mpg (UK), depending on driving style and maintenance.
Yes. Like all modern DOHC petrol engines, the Z7W 712 is an interference design. Timing chain failure (rare but possible) can cause piston-to-valve contact and catastrophic damage. However, the front-mounted chain has strong OEM durability when maintained properly.
Renault specifies RN0710 (5W-40) synthetic oil meeting ACEA A3/B4. This high-shear formulation protects dual-VVT components and ensures proper lubrication under thermal stress. Always use OEM-approved oil and change every 15,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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