Opel is launching three new engine families and 13 new engines between 2013 and 2016, renewing 80 percent of its engine portfolio. In the same period the company will also launch a host of new transmissions. Opel is beginning the renewal of its powertrain portfolio now, by introducing 1.6-liter gasoline and diesel engines, together with next generation five and six-speed gearboxes. They will be joined by the end of 2013 by a new small-displacement gasoline engine family.
The new 1.6 SIDI Turbo gasoline engine
Featuring Spark Ignition Direct Injection (SIDI), this all-new, four-cylinder gasoline engine comes in two configurations. The Eco Turbo version, delivering 125 kW/170 hp and 280 Nm peak torque, is focused on optimized fuel economy, high low-end torque and elasticity. The Performance Turbo, packing 147 kW/200 hp and 300 Nm peak torque, boasts a specific power output of 125 hp per liter which is among best competitors.
Compared to Opel’s previous 1.6-liter turbo engine, CO2 emissions and fuel consumption have been cut by 13 percent, while peak power and torque are increased by up to 30 percent. The Eco Turbo’s elasticity is demonstrated by a 20 percent improvement in fifth gear acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, while the 200 hp Performance Turbo adds an even sportier edge to the new engine’s character.
Technical highlights include:
Only engine in its class to feature balance shafts for smooth running. Thin-wall cylinder block with mass-saving, two-piece crankcase and die-cast aluminum bedplate. Host of ‘sound engineering’ measures for low noise and vibration, including fine-tuning for specific vehicle applications.
- Spark plug/fuel injector units centrally located at top of combustion chamber.
- Fast throttle response: dynamic turbocharger boost strategy giving rapid response comparable to twin-scroll design, plus improved packaging. Compressor with low and high-pressure resonators to suppress airborne hiss and pulsation noise.
The all-new 1.6 CDTI diesel engine
Opel’s 1.6-liter turbo diesel is launched in the Zafira Tourer and will be rolled out to replace the current 1.7-liter and lower powered 2.0-liter diesel engines in a wide range of Opel models, with even more powerful versions to come.
Packing 100 kW/136 hp and strong torque of 320 Nm, Opel’s first all-aluminum diesel engine boasts a power density of 85 hp per liter. Its low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions are already demonstrated by the Zafira Tourer’s figures.
In common with its gasoline counterpart, the 1.6 CDTI benefits from a series of ‘sound engineering’ measures in its design and fine-tuning to minimize noise, vibration and harshness. It has recorded the lowest sound ratings in testing with the Zafira Tourer against other vehicles using 1.6-liter turbo diesel engines.
With Opel’s BlueInjection selective catalytic reduction (SCR) system or lean nox trap (LNT) technology enabling compliance with Euro 6 emissions standards, the 1.6 CDTI is as clean as a gasoline engine in operation.
Technical highlights include:
- Aluminum cylinder block and bedplate, saving more than 20 kilograms in weight.
- Optimized performance with closed-loop combustion control and multiple fuel injections, up to 10 per cycle, for efficient, clean and quiet running.
- Rapid throttle response with variable geometry, water-cooled turbocharger operating at high peak boost pressure of 1.7 bar.
- Low internal engine friction rating, switchable water pump and variable displacement oil pump all contribute to fuel economy and reduced CO2 emissions.
