The Renault ZD3 202 is a 1,461 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2018 and 2023. It features a DOHC 16‑valve layout, common‑rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT), delivering 88 kW (120 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 V and Captur II, the ZD3 202 was designed for fuel‑efficient…
All production years 2018–2023 meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/8845).
The Renault ZD3 202 is a 1,461 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for compact hatchbacks and crossovers (2018–2023). 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 6d-TEMP standards, it balances everyday performance with stringent emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 1,461 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 72.2 mm × 89.0 mm | |
Power output | 88 kW (120 PS) | |
Torque | 260 Nm @ 1,750 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 2,000 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 6d-TEMP | |
Compression ratio | 16.0:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Honeywell) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN1720 (SAE 0W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 124 kg |
The Renault ZD3 202 was used across Renault's CMF-B platform with transverse mounting and shared with Nissan for select European applications. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced mounts in the Captur II and revised intake routing in the Clio V—and from early 2021 the updated EGR cooler and ECU calibration, creating minor interchange limits. Partnerships allowed Nissan's 1.5 dCi units to use the same base engine architecture. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The ZD3 202's primary reliability risk is low-pressure EGR cooler failure on early builds, with elevated incidence in stop-start urban use. Renault internal data from 2022 indicated a measurable increase in EGR-related warranty claims for vehicles under 60,000 km with predominantly city cycles, while UK DVSA MOT records show emissions-related failures rising after 80,000 km in high-idle conditions. Infrequent highway driving and thermal stress make adherence to OEM cooler specifications critical.
Analysis derived from Renault technical bulletins (2020–2023) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2021–2023). 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 ZD3 202 offers excellent urban efficiency and torque, but early models (2018–early 2021) had EGR cooler reliability concerns. Later revisions improved thermal durability. With strict adherence to oil changes (RN1720 0W-30) and use of EN 590 diesel, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km without major issues.
The top issues are low-pressure EGR cooler leakage, DPF regeneration failures in urban use, HPFP wear, and occasional timing chain tensioner rattle. These are documented in Renault service bulletins, particularly SIB 7723E for the EGR system.
The ZD3 202 powered the Renault Clio V (1.5 dCi 120) and Captur II (1.5 dCi 120) from 2019–2023. It was also used in the Nissan Juke (1.5 dCi) from 2020–2023. All variants include a DPF and meet Euro 6d-TEMP standards.
Yes, but cautiously. Stage 1 ECU remaps typically yield +10–15 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 V 1.5 dCi 120, expect ~4.2 L/100km (city) and ~3.0 L/100km (highway), or ~67 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 60–70 mpg UK if DPF regeneration cycles are completed regularly.
Yes. The ZD3 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 0W-30 synthetic oil meeting RN1720 (or newer) standard. This low-SAPS oil protects the DPF, SCR, and HPFP. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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