The Renault Z7X 726 is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four turbo‑petrol engine produced between 2020 and 2023. It features direct fuel injection, a twin‑scroll turbocharger, and dual overhead camshafts (DOHC). In standard form it delivers 205 kW (280 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, engineered for high‑performance dynamics with compliance to Euro 6d emissions.
Fitted exclusively to the Mégane R.S. and Mégane R.S. Trophy—including facelifted 2021–2023 variants—the Z7X 726 was designed for enthusiasts seeking track capability, rapid throttle response, and daily usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a gasoline particulate filter (GPF), three‑way catalytic converter, and precise Bosch engine management, meeting Euro 6d (RDE Step 2) standards.
One documented concern is premature wear of the high-pressure fuel pump drive lobe on the exhaust camshaft, highlighted in Renault Service Bulletin 6045D. This issue is linked to aggressive driving profiles combined with extended oil change intervals beyond 15,000 km. In 2022, Renault introduced a revised camshaft profile and updated lubrication specifications to enhance durability under high thermal loads.
All production years 2020–2023 meet Euro 6d (RDE Step 2) standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9217).
The Renault Z7X 726 is a 1,998 cc inline‑four turbo‑petrol engineered for the Mégane R.S. hot hatch (2020–2023). It combines direct injection with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver high specific output and responsive power delivery across the rev range. Designed to meet Euro 6d (RDE Step 2), it balances track performance with road legality.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 82.0 mm × 94.0 mm | |
| Power output | 205 kW (280 PS) | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2,400–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP6 high-pressure direct injection (up to 350 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 6d (RDE Step 2) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll turbo (Garrett) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | Renault RN17 00 (SAE 0W‑20) | |
| Dry weight | 136 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo enables rapid boost response and high specific output but requires strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals to protect the high-pressure fuel pump drive and timing chain. Renault RN17 00 (0W-20) oil is critical due to its low-viscosity formulation supporting the GPF and turbocharger durability under high thermal stress. Premium unleaded (RON 98) is mandatory to prevent knock under load. Post-2022 models feature a revised exhaust camshaft lobe profile per Renault SIB 6045D to reduce fuel pump drive wear in high-performance applications.
Oil Specs: Requires Renault RN17 00 (0W-20) specification (Renault SIB 6045D). Equivalent to ACEA C5.
Emissions: Euro 6d (RDE Step 2) applies to all 2020–2023 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/9217).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output requires RON 98 petrol (Renault TIS Doc. M9600).
Renault Technical Information System (TIS): Docs M9502, M9520, SIB 6045D
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/9217)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Renault Z7X 726 was used exclusively in the Mégane IV R.S. platform with transverse mounting and no external licensing. This engine received performance-specific adaptations—reinforced main bearings, forged pistons, and a dual-mass flywheel—and from 2022 the R.S. Trophy adopted updated camshaft and fuel system components, creating minor 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 M9505). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('X' for Z7X series). All Z7X 726 units feature a red anodised valve cover with “R.S.” branding. Critical differentiation from Z7X 720: Z7X 726 uses Bosch MED17.5.25 ECU with GPF and twin-scroll turbo; Z7X 720 lacks GPF and uses a single-scroll turbo. Fuel pump drive revisions after 05/2022 require updated camshaft part numbers per Renault SIB 6045D.
The Z7X 726's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive lobe wear on the exhaust camshaft, with elevated incidence in vehicles exceeding 15,000 km service intervals or subjected to frequent high-load driving. Renault internal data from 2022 indicated a measurable uptick in camshaft replacements before 50,000 km in track-use vehicles, while UK DVSA records show GPF-related faults as the second-most common emissions-related MOT defect for Euro 6 performance petrols. Oil specification adherence and premium fuel use are critical to longevity.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2020–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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