Renault is a leading manufacturer of diesel trucks for distribution and long-haul travel. Its AdBlue engines meet the latest Euro standards, while older engines, such as the Renault Midlum 190 DXi, power established fleets.
Its 2024 truck range includes Trucks D Wide (rigids and tractors from 16 to 26 t) and Trucks D (rigids from 7.5 to 18 t).
The Truck D Wide engine range is as follows:
- DTi 8: 250/280/320 hp
- DE 11: 380/430 hp
- CNG: 320 hp
- Full electric
The Trucks D engine range is less potent for the smaller bodies:
- DTi 5: 210/240 hp
- DTi 8: 250/280 hp
- Full electric
Renault also has a long-haul truck range. Its ‘Trucks T High’ models have more powerful engines, including:
- DE13: 440/480/520 hp
- DE13 Turbo Compound: 440/480
Those ‘full electric’ models offer alternative power with a battery capacity of 280-565 kWh and a range of up to 650 km. They support a GVW of up to 16 tonnes, achieving a real-world range within 20% of quoted figures.
But Renault’s diesel engines power most trucks. The DTi and DE range powers distribution vehicles throughout the UK and Europe, with excellent torque and efficiency for long-haul travel and transporting goods.
Join us below to learn more about Renault truck engines.
Legacy engines
Midlum 190 DXi 5
This robust 4-cylinder unit is found across countless distribution fleets. The 2008 model balances power and efficiency, utilising AdBlue technology to meet Euro 4 standards while delivering consistent performance for medium-duty applications.
Midlum DCI 180 Non-AdBlue
Pre-AdBlue technology makes this Euro 3 engine simpler to maintain. Distribution companies value their reliability record and straightforward servicing requirements, with many units surpassing 500,000 kilometres in regular service.
Related: Perkins engines: A guide to industrial engines
Midlum DCI 180 Euro 3
Built for durability, this variant of the DCI 180 shares the same robust architecture. Thanks to its mechanical simplicity, maintenance costs stay lower, while fuel consumption remains competitive for urban distribution work.
Modern powertrains
DTI 11 range
With 380, 430, and 460 hp variants, your heavy-duty needs are covered.
These units deliver maximum torque at low revs, which is perfect for distribution and construction. Advanced engine management systems ensure Euro VI compliance without compromising performance.
Related: What engine do Scania trucks use?
DTI 13 series
The in-line 6-cylinder configuration offers 440, 480, and 520 hp options, matching competitors while maintaining Renault’s reputation for fuel efficiency. Smart features like predictive cruise control optimise fuel use across varied terrain.
Renault, Iveco, or Perkins – which engines are best?
Renault’s truck engines focus on distribution and long-haul transport, while Iveco offers broader applications, including agricultural use. Perkins specialises in industrial equipment like tractors and generators.
Though all three prioritise reliability, Renault and Iveco target road transport specifically, while Perkins dominates off-road and stationary applications. So, there isn’t a ‘best’ truck engine, just the right engine for every use case.
Additional reading: A rundown of popular DAF Paccar Cummins truck engines
