The Vauxhall A20NFT is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2017. It features direct fuel injection (SIDI), dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and variable valve timing (DCVCP). In the Insignia OPC it delivered 239 kW (325 PS) and 400 Nm of torque, enabling strong performance with everyday usability.
Fitted exclusively to the Insignia OPC (A‑body, 2009–2017) and its VXR twin, the A20NFT was engineered for high‑output driving dynamics without sacrificing daily refinement. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise combustion control and a close‑coupled three‑way catalytic converter, meeting Euro 5 standards across all production years.
One documented concern is high‑pressure fuel pump (HPFP) wear, noted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑11‑045. This issue stems from metallurgical fatigue in early‑production HPFP plungers under sustained high load. From mid‑2013, revised pump internals were introduced to improve durability.
All production years 2009–2017 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2047).
The Vauxhall A20NFT is a 1,998 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engineered for performance sedans and estates (2009–2017). It combines spark‑ignited direct injection (SIDI) with a twin‑scroll turbocharger to deliver strong mid‑range thrust and high‑rev responsiveness. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances track‑capable output with road manners.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min, RON 98 recommended) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged (twin‑scroll) | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 239 kW (325 PS) @ 5,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2,400–4,800 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high‑pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled with dual‑circuit thermostat | |
| Turbocharger | Twin‑scroll Garrett GT2260V | |
| Timing system | Chain‑driven (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | DEXOS2 5W‑40 (ACEA C3) | |
| Dry weight | 172 kg |
The twin-scroll turbo and SIDI system deliver responsive power but require high-quality fuel (RON 98 recommended) to avoid knock under load. DEXOS2 5W-40 oil is essential to protect turbo bearings and maintain chain tensioner lubrication. Extended oil intervals increase HPFP wear risk—service every 15,000 km or 12 months. Carbon buildup on intake valves is minimal due to direct injection, but the PCV system should be inspected regularly to prevent crankcase pressure issues. The front-mounted timing chain is robust, but HPFP failures (pre-2013 builds) may cause hard starts or limp mode per TSB‑11‑045.
Oil Specs: Requires DEXOS2 5W-40 (ACEA C3) specification (Vauxhall Owner’s Manual 2012). Not interchangeable with older GM specs.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all A20NFT models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2047). No Euro 6 variants exist.
Power Ratings: Measured under ISO 1585 standards. Full 325 PS output requires RON 98 fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. ENG‑A20NFT‑005).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs ENG‑A20NFT‑001 to ‑005
Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑11‑045
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2047)
ISO 1585: Road vehicles — Engine test code
The Vauxhall A20NFT was used exclusively in Vauxhall's Insignia A platform with longitudinal mounting and shared with Opel as the Insignia OPC. This engine received platform-specific adaptations-reinforced engine mounts, performance cooling pack, and a stiffer subframe-and from 2013 the facelifted Insignia OPC retained the same core engine but with HPFP and ECU updates, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Vauxhall TIS ENG‑A20NFT‑001). The 7th VIN digit for UK OPC models is 'L' (indicating A20NFT). Visual cues: black valve cover with 'OPC' logo, twin‑scroll turbo with silver heat shield, and dual‑exit exhaust manifold. Critical differentiation from non‑OPC 2.0T: A20NFT has larger intercooler, reinforced conrods, and specific Bosch MED17.5.5 ECU. HPFP part numbers changed in 2013—pre‑2013 units (Bosch 0 261 500 052) are not interchangeable with post‑2013 (0 261 500 078) per TSB‑11‑045.
The A20NFT's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure on pre-2013 builds, with elevated incidence in high-load or track use. Vauxhall internal data (2014) indicated HPFP replacements in ~12% of early OPCs before 80,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalyst design. Sustained high RPM and poor fuel quality accelerate HPFP wear, making fuel grade and service adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2011–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL INSIGNIA-OPC.
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