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Renault 30: V6 luxury hatchback from the 1970s
The Renault 30 — a more luxurious sibling of the Renault 20 produced from 1975 to 1984 with a V6 engine. This is a rare classic front-wheel-drive hatchback that you'll only find in isolated examples in Lithuania today. We look at the engines, trims, and what to check before buying.
Renault 30 in brief
The Renault 30 was the top-of-the-line offering from Renault in this class: essentially the same five-door hatchback as the Renault 20, but with a more powerful V6 engine, luxurious trim, and a fuller feature set. The car also stands out with a different front end featuring rectangular headlights.
Produced until 1984, it was never a mass-market model, making it a rarity today. It's sought after by those who appreciate 1970s French comfort and want something unique.
Which trim to choose
The Renault 30 was produced in one generation, with trims differing by equipment and engine. The main petrol versions are the TS and the more luxurious TX, while in some markets a turbodiesel was also offered.
If you're after comfort and a full feature set, go for the TX. The TS is praised for its simpler equipment and often lower price. Diesel versions are even rarer and are more suited to enthusiasts.
Engines and gearboxes
The Renault 30's engine is a 2.7-litre V6, developed with other manufacturers and used in several luxury models of the time. It delivers around 130–140hp and provides smooth, quiet driving.
Transmission — manual (5-speed) or automatic. The automatic, often offered in more luxurious versions, allows for a more relaxed drive, but in the case of an older car, its condition is crucial.
What to check when buying a used Renault 30
First, inspect the body — for dents, wheel arches, and the floor of the boot. Corrosion is the biggest issue with older Renaults, and bodywork repairs often cost more than the car itself.
Check the cooling system of the V6 engine and ensure the engine doesn't overheat. Also, pay attention to the electrical equipment and transmission, as they affect daily driving comfort.
Parts availability is limited, so before buying, find out where you can source them. It's also important that the car has clean paperwork and a clear history.
Trim levels
Names and equipment vary by market and year; we list the most commonly found trims in Europe.
TS
1975–1984The base V6 version with decent comfort.
- 2.7-litre V6 engine
- Often — simpler interior trim
- Often — manual transmission
TX
1975–1984The luxury version with more equipment.
- Often — electric windows
- Often — higher-quality interior trim
- Often — automatic transmission
TD
Later yearsTurbo-diesel version in some markets.
- Mostly a 2.1-litre turbo-diesel
- Lower fuel consumption
- Less common offering
Comparing versions
| TS | TX | TD | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Who it suits | A straightforward classic design | Comfort and luxury | Enthusiasts seeking a diesel |
| Engine | 2.7-litre V6 petrol | 2.7-litre V6 petrol | Turbo-diesel |
| Interior | Simpler | More luxurious | Depends on the trim |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | €€ | €€ | €€ |
For most buyers, the TX is the pick of the bunch — it offers the most comfort. The TS is cheaper, while the TD is only really worth considering for enthusiasts due to its rarity.
Pros
- A rare and distinctive classic car
- Smooth V6 engine
- Comfortable ride
- Spacious interior and practical hatchback
Cons
- Rust and worn-out parts
- Very limited parts availability
- High fuel consumption with the V6
Frequently asked questions
How does the Renault 30 differ from the Renault 20?
The Renault 30 has a V6 engine, more luxurious trim and a different front end, while the Renault 20 has four-cylinder engines and simpler equipment.
Is the Renault 30 reliable?
Like any car over forty years old, its reliability depends on the condition of the specific example and its service history.
Is the Renault 30 suitable for daily use?
A well-maintained example might do the job, but parts availability, lack of modern safety features, and the upkeep required for an older car make it more of a hobby car than a daily driver.
Updated 2026-10-19 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
