The Vauxhall 26NE is a 2,594 cc, inline‑six petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1995. It features a cast‑iron block, aluminium head, single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and multi-point fuel injection. In standard form it delivered 103 kW (140 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 215 Nm of torque at 3,600 rpm, providing smooth, linear power delivery ideal for executive sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Omega A and Senator B, the 26NE was engineered for refined cruising and quiet operation, leveraging the inherent balance of the inline‑six layout. Emissions compliance was achieved through a closed-loop fuel system and a three-way catalytic converter, allowing compliance with Euro 1 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is premature wear of the distributor drive gear, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin TECH-91-08. This is typically linked to infrequent oil changes or use of non-specified viscosity grades, which reduce lubrication to the auxiliary drive train. Vauxhall recommends strict adherence to 10,000 km oil intervals with API SG/CD or ACEA A2 oil to mitigate this risk.
Production years 1988–1995 meet Euro 1 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109).
The Vauxhall 26NE is a 2,594 cc inline‑six petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1988–1995). It combines SOHC valvetrain architecture with multi-point fuel injection to deliver smooth, vibration-free power and relaxed highway cruising. Designed to meet Euro 1 emissions standards, it prioritizes drivability and durability over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,594 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, SOHC, 12‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 85.0 mm × 76.4 mm | |
| Power output | 103 kW (140 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 215 Nm @ 3,600 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic 2.8 multi-point injection | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | API SG/CD or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 168 kg |
The naturally aspirated inline‑six provides exceptionally smooth power ideal for motorway cruising but requires consistent oil maintenance to protect the distributor drive and timing chain. API SG/CD or ACEA A2 10W‑40 oil must be used with changes every 10,000 km or 12 months to prevent auxiliary drive wear. The Bosch Motronic 2.8 system is sensitive to ignition component quality; only genuine coils and leads should be used. Coolant should be replaced every 4 years to protect the aluminium head. No major timing system recalls exist, but chain tensioners should be inspected at 180,000 km per Vauxhall TECH-91-08.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/CD or ACEA A2 specification (Vauxhall SIB TECH-91-08). Not compatible with modern low-SAPS oils.
Emissions: Euro 1 certification applies to all 1988–1995 26NE models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2109).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output verified via VCA dynamometer logs (VCA/EMS/2109).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG-C26-A, OME-C26-01
Vauxhall Service Bulletin TECH-91-08
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2109)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall 26NE was used across Vauxhall's Omega A and Senator B platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Senator B and revised cooling circuits in late Omega A—and from 1992 facelifted models adopted updated intake manifolds, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front left side of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS ENG-C26-A). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine displacement ('6' for 2.6L). All 26NE units feature a black plastic upper intake manifold with “2.6i” embossed on the side. Critical differentiation from earlier CIH engines: 26NE uses a modern SOHC head with multi-point injection, whereas CIH engines used cam-in-head design with carburettors or single-point injection. Engine serial numbers begin with “C26NE” followed by a 6-digit production code.
The 26NE's primary reliability risk is distributor drive gear wear under high-mileage operation with poor oil maintenance. Vauxhall internal data (1993) indicated increased ignition timing faults in vehicles with oil intervals exceeding 15,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show low mechanical failure rates but occasional emissions faults linked to ageing catalytic converters. Strict adherence to oil specifications and intervals is critical to prevent ignition system damage.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1988–1995) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL 26NE.
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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EUR-Lex
EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
UK vehicle approval processes, import rules, and MoT guidance.
DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
Official guidance on engine swaps and inspection implications.
Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
WLTP and RDE testing procedures for emissions certification.
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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