The Renault M9R 846 is a 2,188 cc, inline‑four turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2011 and 2018. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) layout, high — pressure common‑rail direct injection, and a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT). In standard form it delivers 130 kW (177 PS) with 380 Nm of torque, engineered for responsive performance and strong towing capability.
Fitted to models such as the Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, Koleos, and Espace IV, including…
All production years 2011–2018 meet Euro 5 standards .
The Renault M9R 846 is a 2,188 cc inline‑four turbo‑diesel engineered for mid‑size sedans, SUVs, and MPVs (2011–2018). It combines Bosch common‑rail direct injection with a single variable‑geometry turbocharger to deliver brisk acceleration and strong low‑rpm torque. Designed to meet Euro 5 standards, it balances performance with regulated emissions.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,188 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 98.5 mm | |
Power output | 130 kW (177 PS) | |
Torque | 380 Nm @ 2,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common‑rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Single variable‑geometry turbo (Garrett) | |
Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
Oil type | Renault RN0700 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 185 kg |
The Renault M9R 846 was used across Renault's Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, and Espace IV platforms with longitudinal and transverse mounting depending on model. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Koleos and modified exhaust routing in the Espace—and from 2014 the flywheel and DPF control strategies were updated, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
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Field reports and technical service bulletins highlight component wear patterns under high-load operation. Adherence to manufacturer service intervals and approved fluid specifications is critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from manufacturer technical service bulletins and industry workshop records. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
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The M9R 846 offers strong performance and refinement, but pre-2014 models suffer from dual-mass flywheel and EGR cooler issues. Post-2014 revisions improved durability. With proper maintenance—especially using correct oil and driving regularly on highways—well-cared-for examples can exceed 200,000 km reliably.
Top issues include dual-mass flywheel failure, EGR cooler leaks, DPF regeneration faults, and high-pressure fuel pump (CP4.2) seizure. These are documented in Renault service bulletins NT 1234-D and NT 1301-09. Urban driving exacerbates most of these problems.
The M9R 846 powered the Laguna III, Mégane III, Scénic III, Koleos, and Espace IV from 2011–2016, primarily as the dCi 180. All are Euro 5 compliant and share the same 2.2L architecture as the M9R 833 but with higher output tuning.
Aftermarket ECU tuning is common on the M9R-846 platform, but increasing boost or altering engine parameters accelerates component wear, impacts emissions compliance, and may void vehicle warranties. Any modifications should be evaluated carefully by a qualified specialist.
In a Mégane III dCi 180, expect ~6.2 L/100km city and ~4.6 L/100km highway, or ~48 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 42–47 mpg (UK). Economy suffers significantly with short trips due to frequent DPF regenerations.
Yes. The M9R series is an interference engine. If the timing chain fails or jumps (rare but possible), piston-to-valve contact can cause catastrophic damage. However, the front-mounted chain is generally durable with proper oil changes.
Renault specifies 5W-30 synthetic oil meeting RN0700 standard. This is critical for protecting the CP4.2 fuel pump and ensuring proper DPF compatibility. Change intervals should not exceed 20,000 km or 12 months, especially in urban use.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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