The Renault 25 (B29) 2.0 i 12V, produced between 1988 and 1993, represented a significant offering in Renault’s upper-midsize range. Positioned as a more performance-oriented variant within the B29 generation, it aimed to provide a balance between comfort and driving enjoyment. The 25, intended as a replacement for the Renault 20/30, was Renault’s flagship saloon and hatchback, competing with vehicles like the Ford Granada and Opel/Vauxhall Senator in the European market. This 2.0-liter, 12-valve engine and 5-speed manual transmission combination offered a step up in power compared to the base models, appealing to drivers seeking a more engaging experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Renault |
| Model | 25 |
| Generation | 25 (B29) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i 12V (140 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1988 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.6 l/100 km (18.7 US mpg, 22.4 UK mpg, 7.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 203 km/h (126.14 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.1 kg/Hp, 110.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.2 kg/Nm, 138.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 70.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 176 Nm @ 4300 rpm (129.81 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | J7R12S |
| Engine displacement | 1995 cm3 (121.74 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88 mm (3.46 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.3:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 3 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.3 l (5.6 US qt | 4.66 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1270 kg (2799.87 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1710 kg (3769.9 lbs.) |
| Max load | 440 kg (970.03 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 440 l (15.54 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1240 l (43.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 72 l (19.02 US gal | 15.84 UK gal) |
| Length | 4715 mm (185.63 in.) |
| Width | 1805 mm (71.06 in.) |
| Height | 1415 mm (55.71 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2725 mm (107.28 in.) |
| Front track | 1495 mm (58.86 in.) |
| Rear track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Drum |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic |
| Tires size | 195/60 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Renault 25 variant is the J7R12S engine, a 1995cc inline-four cylinder unit. This engine featured a 12-valve configuration (three valves per cylinder) and utilized multi-port fuel injection. The engine’s design prioritized a balance between power and fuel efficiency, typical for European engines of the era. The 9.3:1 compression ratio was relatively moderate, contributing to the engine’s usability on lower octane fuels. The engine’s longitudinal mounting within the front-wheel-drive chassis was a notable design characteristic, requiring a complex drivetrain layout to transmit power to the front wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission offered precise control and allowed the driver to fully exploit the engine’s powerband. Gear ratios were tuned for a blend of acceleration and highway cruising, with a relatively tall fifth gear to improve fuel economy at higher speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 i 12V offered a noticeable improvement in performance over the lower-displacement Renault 25 models. Acceleration to 60 mph in around 9.4 seconds and a top speed of 126 mph were respectable for the late 1980s and early 1990s. The engine delivered a smooth power delivery, with peak torque arriving at 4300 rpm. While not a sports car, the 2.0-liter engine provided sufficient power for confident overtaking and comfortable highway cruising. Compared to the more powerful V6 versions, the 2.0 i 12V felt less stressed and more refined, offering a more relaxed driving experience. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver involvement, while the relatively long-travel suspension provided a comfortable ride, albeit with some body roll in corners.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 i 12V typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included central locking, electric front windows, and a basic stereo system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded velour or leather available. Dashboard design was functional and straightforward, with clear instrumentation. Optional extras included air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded sound systems. The trim level often dictated the exterior detailing, with higher-spec models featuring alloy wheels and body-colored bumpers.
Chassis & Braking
The Renault 25 B29 utilized a relatively conventional chassis design, with independent coil spring suspension at the front and a coil spring rear axle. The front suspension geometry was designed to provide good handling and ride comfort. Braking was accomplished via disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was often included as standard equipment, enhancing safety. The steering was rack and pinion, providing precise and responsive control. The 195/60 R15 tires offered a good balance between grip and ride comfort.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Renault 25 2.0 i 12V was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and relatively strong performance. However, some critics noted that the styling was somewhat conservative compared to its rivals. Compared to the V6 models, the 2.0 i 12V offered better fuel economy and lower running costs, making it a more practical choice for many buyers. The 2.0-liter engine proved to be reliable, although regular maintenance was essential. The manual transmission was generally preferred by enthusiasts for its greater driver involvement.
Legacy
The Renault 25, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, remains a fondly remembered example of a spacious and comfortable European saloon/hatchback. The J7R12S engine, when properly maintained, proved to be a durable and reliable unit. Today, the Renault 25 2.0 i 12V is becoming increasingly sought after by classic car enthusiasts. Parts availability can be a challenge, but a dedicated community of owners and specialists exists to support the preservation of these vehicles. The 2.0 i 12V represents a sweet spot in the Renault 25 lineup, offering a good balance of performance, economy, and reliability.
