French engine excellence: Surpassing global car standards

About French cars, there are sometimes opinions that they can be prone to faults. However, there are exceptions that definitely refute this. With the right engine under the hood, a French car can compete in terms of reliability with vehicles from Japan or Germany. What are these engines?

Although the naturally aspirated engines from Citroën and Peugeot do not enjoy a reputation similar to their German or Japanese counterparts, they should be recognized as equally reliable. They are characterized by a simple design from the 90s when the priority was to create a durable engine.

Currently, TU units are mainly found in older cars, however, the EC5 model was used up until 2018 in Citroën C-Elysée and Peugeot 301 as a 1.6 VTi, with variable valve timing technology and compliance with the Euro 6 standard, although it differs from the Prince series design.

This engine is also friendly for gas installations, easy and inexpensive to maintain, with affordable parts available. The disadvantages may include ignition coil failures or throttle contamination, and in the case of severely neglected units - increased oil consumption.

The French 2.0-litre HDi is a symbol of success in the diesel engine category after the year 2000, known for its exceptional durability, despite frequent neglect from the owners. This engine was successively improved over more than two decades, meeting customer expectations and emission standards. Ford used it when the brand faced challenges with its diesels, and its reliability was also appreciated by manufacturers such as Volvo or Suzuki.

Although there are stories of this engine failing, they are the exception among thousands of satisfied users. Its advantage is also the economy, even with intensive exploitation. Although repairs of newer versions can be expensive, this engine is worth choosing for those looking for a diesel.

Another diesel, with more than twenty years of tradition, had difficult beginnings, but over time, it gained a reputation for being refined and durable. It is especially appreciated for its economy, placing it at the forefront of its class.

Currently, problems with bearing seizure or injection and turbo failures are rare. The latest versions are free of serious issues, and this engine has been found to be applicable not only to Renault and Nissan but also to Mercedes vehicles under the designation OM 607 DE 15 LA.

The successor of the 1.9 dCi series proved to be a noteworthy construction, despite initial problems with bearing durability. These flaws were quickly addressed, and the engine entered the new decade as a proven motor. It was still offered recently in Renault and Nissan cars, offering great performance.

Regular oil changes are recommended to maintain bearing durability, but other than that, the engine features low failure rates and high reliability. It is a good choice for those looking for a car with a 2.0 dCi engine.

Though small, it is an exceptionally successful and reliable engine. Designed just over a decade ago and offered until recently, this engine amazes with durability exceeding 200,000 kilometres despite its small capacity and three cylinders. It was designed in the era of downsizing but managed to avoid direct fuel injection, which allows the use of LPG installations. Its successor, the 1.0 H4Dt, similarly impresses with its design, not requiring a particulate filter. Defects such as coolant leaks or higher oil consumption occur sporadically.