The Vauxhall S9W 700 is a 2,993 cc, V6 turbo‑diesel engine produced between 2010 and 2018 under licence from Renault. It features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), 24 valves, and twin variable geometry turbochargers (VGT) with intercooler. In standard form it delivered 173 kW (235 PS) at 3,800 rpm and 450 Nm of torque at 1,800 rpm, providing refined high — output performance for executive MPVs and crossovers.
Fitted to models such as the Zafira Tourer and Insignia, the S9W 700…
All production years 2010–2018 meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7340).
The Vauxhall S9W 700 is a 2,993 cc V6 turbo‑diesel engine engineered for executive MPVs and large crossovers (2010–2018). It combines DOHC 24-valve architecture with twin variable geometry turbochargers to deliver smooth, high-torque performance with low vibration. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances premium drivability with operational efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,993 cc | |
Fuel type | Diesel | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Twin-turbocharged (VGT) | |
Bore × stroke | 84.0 mm × 90.0 mm | |
Power output | 173 kW (235 PS) @ 3,800 rpm | |
Torque | 450 Nm @ 1,800 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch CP4.2 common-rail (up to 1,800 bar) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 15.8:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | Twin variable geometry turbos (Garrett VNT17) | |
Timing system | Chain (maintenance-free design) | |
Oil type | ACEA B4 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 210 kg |
The Vauxhall S9W 700 was used across Vauxhall's Zafira Tourer and Insignia platforms with transverse mounting and licensed from Renault. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Insignia for NVH control and compact accessory layout in the Zafira Tourer—and from 2014 the high-pressure pump drive was upgraded to address coupling failures, creating service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The S9W 700's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump drive coupling failure, with elevated incidence in sustained high-load use such as motorway towing. Vauxhall internal data from 2015 noted increased stalling complaints on Insignia models under 90,000 km in fleet service, while UK DVSA MOT records show EGR-related emissions failures as a recurring cause in executive MPVs. Frequent high-load operation and delayed oil changes accelerate mechanical wear, making scheduled maintenance critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2010–2016) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
The most common questions about engine codes, what they mean, how to find them and how this database works
The S9W 700 offers refined V6 diesel performance but requires disciplined maintenance. Its chain-driven valvetrain avoids timing belt costs, but the high-pressure pump drive is prone to fatigue under sustained load. Using ACEA B4 oil and servicing every 15,000 km or annually helps prevent most issues. Post-2014 revisions improved pump drive longevity.
Top issues include high-pressure fuel pump drive failure, EGR cooler leaks, turbo actuator faults, and rear main seal leaks. These are well-documented in Vauxhall service bulletins, especially TIS-15-04-16. Most are preventable with quality diesel, correct oil, and regular servicing.
It was used in the Zafira Tourer (2011–2018) and Insignia (2010–2017), both with 235 PS output. This is a licensed Renault S9W variant. All variants meet Euro 5 emissions standards per VCA approval.
Modest gains are possible via ECU remap (+15–20 kW), but the CP4.2 pump and twin-VGT system limit potential. Over-tuning risks premature pump or turbo failure. Most owners prioritise reliability over tuning due to the engine’s executive orientation.
In an Insignia 3.0 CDTI, typical consumption is ~8.5 L/100km (city) and ~6.2 L/100km (highway), or about 36 mpg UK combined. Real-world figures range 32–40 mpg (UK) depending on load and driving style.
Yes. The S9W 700 is an interference engine. However, it uses a durable timing chain with no scheduled replacement. Chain failure is rare, but if it occurs, valve-to-piston contact can cause major damage.
Vauxhall specifies ACEA B4 (SAE 5W‑30) diesel-rated oil. This is critical for protecting the Bosch CP4.2 high-pressure pump. Change intervals should not exceed 15,000 km or 12 months, especially in severe service.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
Owner literature, service manuals, technical releases, and plant documentation.
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)
UK type-approval authority for automotive products.
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
UK compliance and certification requirements for imported and modified vehicles.
VCA Certification Portal
Type-approval guidance and documentation.
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