The Renault Z7X 775 is a 2,165 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1985 and 1996. It features a cast-iron block, aluminium cylinder head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and two valves per cylinder. In standard form it delivered 95–103 kW (129–140 PS) and 185–192 Nm of torque, providing robust mid-range performance for executive and performance hatchback applications.
Fitted to models such as the Renault 25, Safrane, and Espace III, including the 25 Turbo and Safrane Baccara, the Z7X 775 was engineered for smooth cruising and responsive throttle delivery. Emissions compliance was achieved through electronic fuel injection (Bosch Mono-Jetronic or LE-Jetronic depending on variant) and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing compliance with Euro 1 standards throughout its production.
One documented concern is head gasket failure under sustained high-load conditions, particularly in early 2.2L variants. This issue, referenced in Renault Technical Note RTA 775/12, is attributed to thermal stress at the cylinder head–block interface due to marginal coolant flow design. From 1990, revised gasket materials and coolant channel geometry were introduced across the Z7X family.
Production years 1985–1992 meet Euro 1 standards; 1993–1996 models retain Euro 1 compliance (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678).
The Renault Z7X 775 is a 2,165 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and MPVs (1985–1996). It combines electronic fuel injection with SOHC 8‑valve architecture to deliver linear power delivery and strong mid-range torque. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it balances drivability with serviceability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,165 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 92.0 mm × 81.5 mm | |
| Power output | 95–103 kW (129–140 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 185–192 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch LE-Jetronic / Mono-Jetronic EFI | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/CC, SAE 10W‑40 | |
| Dry weight | 148 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve layout provides predictable power delivery but requires regular valve clearance checks every 30,000 km to maintain efficiency and idle quality. Head gasket integrity is critical—early units (pre-1990) are prone to failure under high thermal load; post-1990 engines use improved gaskets per RTA 775/12. Use of correct 10W-40 mineral/synthetic blend oil ensures cam and chain longevity. Fuel must meet EN 228 (unleaded, max 0.013% sulfur). The absence of hydraulic lifters means mechanical tappet noise is normal but excessive clatter may indicate wear.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CC or equivalent (Renault RTA Doc. Z7X‑775‑07). ACEA A2/B2 acceptable post-1992.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all production years (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/5678). No Euro 2 variants were produced.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. 103 kW output applies to Safrane RXE and Espace III TXE only (Renault PT‑1994).
Renault RTA Documentation: Z7X‑775‑01 through Z7X‑775‑07
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/5678)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Renault Z7X 775 was used across Renault's R25/Safrane platforms with longitudinal mounting and shared with Matra for the Espace III. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Safrane and modified accessory brackets in the Espace—and from 1990 the facelifted Safrane adopted revised coolant passages and gasket materials, creating interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the left side of the block near the bellhousing flange (Renault RTA Z7X‑775‑02). The 7th VIN digit for Renault 25/Safrane indicates engine displacement ('7' for 2.2L). Early engines (1985–1989) have black valve covers with external oil filler; post-1990 units use grey covers with integrated filler. Critical differentiation from Z7X 770 (2.0L): Z7X 775 has larger bore (92.0 mm vs 88.0 mm) and distinct intake manifold casting. Head gasket revisions after 1990 require matching block/head production dates—see RTA 775/12 for compatibility matrix.
The Z7X 775's primary reliability risk is head gasket failure in pre-1990 builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load or hot-climate use. Renault internal service data from 1991 indicated a significant portion of early 2.2L engines required gasket replacement before 150,000 km, while UK DVSA records show cooling system faults as a recurring MOT advisory item. Thermal cycling and coolant maintenance lapses accelerate gasket degradation, making coolant quality and thermostat function critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (1988–1996) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1995–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about RENAULT Z7X-775.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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