The Renault Z7W 717 is a 2,963 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2003. It features a DOHC 24‑valve layout and sequential multi‑point fuel injection. In standard form it delivers 155 kW (211 PS) and 285 Nm of torque, with smooth power delivery and refined high‑rpm character.
Fitted primarily to the Laguna I Phase 2 and Avantime, the Z7W 717 was engineered for spirited highway cruising, responsive mid‑range performance, and compliance with Euro 3 emissions standards. Exhaust after‑treatment includes a three‑way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR).
One documented concern is premature wear of the timing belt tensioner bearing, which can lead to belt misalignment or failure. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note TN‑ME‑1999‑07, is linked to thermal stress and marginal lubrication during repeated cold starts. From 2001, revised tensioner components improved service life.
Production years 1996–2003 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3018).
The Renault Z7W 717 is a 2,963 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for premium hatchbacks and coupés (1996–2003). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with dual overhead camshafts to deliver linear, high-revving performance and refined motorway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 3 emissions standards, it balances responsiveness with drivability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,963 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 87.0 mm × 83.0 mm | |
| Power output | 155 kW (211 PS) | |
| Torque | 285 Nm @ 4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point injection (Bosch Motronic) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven (front-mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN0700 (ACEA A3/B3, SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 188 kg |
The V6 layout provides smooth, high-revving power ideal for spirited driving but requires strict adherence to 60,000 km or 48-month timing belt replacement intervals to prevent catastrophic failure. Renault RN0700 (10W‑40 ACEA A3/B3) oil is essential for valve train protection and sludge control. Use only EN 228 unleaded petrol (95 RON minimum) to avoid knocking and catalytic converter damage. Post-2001 units include updated tensioner bearings per Renault TN‑ME‑1999‑07.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN0700 (10W‑40, ACEA A3/B3) specification (Renault SB‑LUB‑1996).
Emissions: Euro 3 applies to all 1996–2003 Z7W 717 builds (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3018).
Power Ratings: Measured under UN ECE R85. Power output assumes 95 RON fuel quality (Renault TIS Doc. Z7W‑A05).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs Z7W‑A01 to Z7W‑A05, TN‑ME‑1999‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3018)
UN Regulation No. 85 (Engine Power Measurement)
The Renault Z7W 717 was used across Renault's premium hatchback and coupé platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Avantime and revised intake manifolds in the Laguna I Phase 2—and from 2001 the updated timing system introduced minor service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Renault TIS Z7W‑A07). The 7th VIN digit for Renault models is 'P' for petrol V6 variants. Pre-2001 units use Bosch Motronic 2.10.6 ECU with round OBD port; post-2001 models use Motronic 2.10.7 with updated idle control logic. Critical differentiation from Z7V: Z7W 717 has 2,963 cc displacement and 211 PS; Z7V 708 is 2,946 cc with 200 PS. Timing belt kits differ before/after 01/2001 (Renault TN‑ME‑1999‑07).
The Z7W 717's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner bearing failure, with elevated incidence in high-mileage vehicles or those subjected to extended service intervals. Renault internal field data from 2002 indicated a measurable uptick in belt-related failures before 85,000 km in non-compliant maintenance cases, while UK DVSA MOT data shows catalytic converter degradation in vehicles with chronic misfires. Infrequent oil changes and poor-quality petrol accelerate valve train wear, making maintenance discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1997–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2000–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT Z7W-717.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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