With the 130hp output of a 1.8-litre powerplant and the 190Nm torque of a 2-ltre engine, this new 1.4-litre unit yields C-segment CO2 emission levels that are just below those of a 1.6-litre engine.

Like its smaller sibling, the TCe 100, the TCe 130 combines a small engine with a low-inertia turbocharger that is responsive even at low engine speeds.

Its very low fuel consumption and environmental credentials ensure that the TCe engine anticipates the potential resurgence of interest in petrol engines that the introduction of the Euro 5 emission standard is likely to trigger.

Developed as part of the Renault-Nissan Alliance the TCe 130 is a perfect illustration of the synergies between the partners’ engineering expertise: Nissan’s lies in developing petrol engines, while Renault has built up experience in combustion and turbocharging.

The new TCe 130 has an aluminium sump and a single-flow turbocompressor. The profile of its inlet ports has been redesigned compared with those of the normally-aspirated engine. The new ports create a swirling inflow, which mixes fuel and air more evenly, so improving combustion.

Thanks to this tumbling flow of air the combustion flame propagates more efficiently, improving torque at low revs without impairing performance at higher engine speeds. A continuous camshaft angle variator at the intake port improves performance at all engine speeds and helps reduce fuel consumption. The engine has a timing chain that which not only cuts noise but is also reliable and durable.