Opel says diesel engines have contributed significantly to the success story of the Opel Insignia. More than 57 per cent of all European orders for the Opel flagship model are for the diesel variant.
A team of Opel engineers tells us it has improved the existing spectrum of diesel engines ready for 2012. Their goal was to further cut consumption and emissions without affecting power output. The end result is that fuel consumption and CO2 emissions have been reduced by 12 per cent. However, the level of comfort for driver and passengers has been raised as the engines have also been made quieter.
The duo of 2.0 litre Insignia engines are now equipped with start/stop technology. Fuel consumption of the engines has been reduced by 0.6 litres per 100 kilometres. The 118kW/160hp variant of the 2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX consumes 4.3 l/100 km, while emitting 115g/km of carbon-dioxide.
Opel Ireland says all versions of the 2.0 CDTI Insignia are equipped with the innovative “Clean Tech” technology. The combustion process is optimised by cylinder-integrated pressure sensors, and they say the end result is a significant reduction of nitrogen oxide and soot particulates, while at the same time reaching optimal fuel economy.
All 2.0 CDTI engines are fitted with an electronically controlled exhaust gas recirculation, which means, Opel says, the exhaust gas which has been cooled is then returned to the combustion procedure, resulting in lower carbon emissions. In addition, the bearings of the dual overhead camshafts have been changed to needle bearings, thus reducing friction and consumption.
Opel engineers focused on the fuel injection strategy as a way of tackling the typical noise and vibrations associated with diesel engines. The enhancements are most noticeable in the partial load range. A third-generation common-rail system operates with injection pressures of up to 1,600 bar.
At the same time electro-magnetically-controlled injection nozzles allow multiple injections per cycle. This ensures precise combustion control. Improved kinematics between the piston and the connecting rod as well as a revised valve drive also reduce the mechanical and combustion noises. Resonance has been counter-acted by increased stiffness of engine components. The engines are additionally insulated against noise.
For those looking for performance and value within the petrol segment, Opel claims the new 1.4i 140bhp ecoFLEX turbo petrol engine with start/stop technology delivers 103kW/140bhp and replaces the equally powerful 1.8-litre aspirated version. With 200Nm maximum torque available from 1850-4900rpm, and maximum power from 4900-6000rpm, the 1.4i model offers seamless performance. Start/stop technology ensures fuel efficiency meaning CO2s are kept inside Tax Band B, currently qualifying for the second lowest rate of VRT and road tax.
