The Vauxhall X20XEV is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1996 and 2003. It features multi-point fuel injection, dual overhead camshafts (DOHC), and 16 valves. In standard form it delivers 100 kW (136 PS) and 190 Nm of torque, with smooth power delivery and refined high‑rpm character typical of GM’s Ecotec architecture.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra B, Astra G, and Zafira A, the X20XEV was engineered for mid‑range performance, refinement, and compliance with Euro 3 emissions standards. Emissions control was achieved through precise electronic throttle control, sequential fuel injection, and a three‑way catalytic converter, enabling adherence to regulatory requirements across EU markets.
One documented concern is premature wear of the plastic thermostat housing, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 06‑024. This issue is linked to thermal cycling and material fatigue, leading to coolant leaks and potential overheating. From 2001, revised all‑metal housings were introduced to improve durability.
Production years 1996–2003 meet Euro 3 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1542).
The Vauxhall X20XEV is a 1,998 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact and mid‑size models (1996–2003). It combines sequential multi-point fuel injection with DOHC architecture to deliver linear power and high‑rpm refinement. Designed to meet Euro 3 standards, it balances performance with emissions compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 100 kW (136 PS) @ 5,600 rpm | |
| Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Sequential multi-point fuel injection (SMPI) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 3 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Variable valve timing | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, non‑interference design) | |
| Oil type | ACEA A3/B3 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 128 kg |
The DOHC 16-valve layout provides smooth, linear power ideal for mixed driving but demands adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using ACEA A3/B3 10W‑40 oil to maintain camshaft and tappet longevity. The non-interference chain design eliminates catastrophic failure risk, though chain tensioners may rattle with age. Frequent short trips accelerate carbon buildup in the intake. Post-2001 engines include an all-metal thermostat housing per Vauxhall SIB 06 024. Fuel must meet EN 228 standards to protect injectors and catalyst longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires ACEA A3/B3 (10W-40) specification (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V19030).
Emissions: Euro 3 certification applies to all 1996–2003 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1542).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output validated on EU95 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V19050).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V19010, V19015, V19020, SIB 06 024
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/1542)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall X20XEV was used across Vauxhall's Astra G, Vectra B, and Zafira A platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Zafira A and revised coolant routing in the Vectra B—but retained consistent architecture across applications. All units are mechanically identical and share service parts. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crankshaft pulley (Vauxhall TIS V19080). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('X' for X20 series). All X20XEV units feature a black aluminium valve cover with “X20XEV” embossed. Critical differentiation from earlier C20XE: X20XEV has coil-on-plug ignition, no distributor, and a plastic (pre-2001) or metal (post-2001) thermostat housing. Service parts for thermostat housings differ before and after production date 08/2001 (Vauxhall SIB 06 024).
The X20XEV's primary reliability risk is plastic thermostat housing failure, with elevated incidence in vehicles beyond 100,000 km or 8 years of service. Vauxhall internal data from 2004 indicated a measurable uptick in coolant leaks linked to housing cracks, while UK MOT records show no significant emissions-related failures due to the engine’s robust three-way catalyst design. Adherence to correct oil specification and timely housing replacement is critical to prevent overheating.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2003–2006) and UK MOT failure statistics (2005–2015). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-20-XEV.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
Independent Technical Reference
EngineCode.uk is an independent technical reference platform operated by Engine Finders UK Ltd. We are not affiliated with VAUXHALL or any other manufacturer. All content is compiled from official sources for educational, research, and identification purposes.
Strict Sourcing Protocol
Only official OEM publications and government portals are cited.
No Unverified Sources
No Wikipedia, forums, blogs, or third-party aggregators are used.
Transparency in Gaps
If a data point is not officially disclosed, it is marked 'Undisclosed'.
Regulatory Stability
EU regulations are referenced using CELEX identifiers for long-term stability.
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.
Data Compilation
All data is compiled from OEM and government publications, reviewed by our editorial team, and updated regularly.
Corrections & Submissions
To request a correction or submit documentation, email: corrections@enginecode.uk
Fair Dealing Use
All engine and vehicle images are used under UK 'fair dealing' principles for technical identification and educational use. Rights remain with their respective owners.
Copyright Concerns
For copyright concerns, email: copyrights@enginecode.uk
GDPR Compliance
EngineCode.uk complies with UK GDPR. We do not collect personal data unless explicitly provided.
Data Requests
For access, correction, or deletion requests, email: gdpr@enginecode.uk
Trademark Notice
All trademarks, logos, and engine codes are the property of their respective owners. Use on this site is strictly for reference and identification.
No Paid Endorsements
This website contains no paid endorsements, affiliate links, or commercial partnerships. We do not sell parts or services.
Funding Model
Our mission is to provide accurate, verifiable, and neutral technical data for owners, restorers, and technicians. This site is self-funded.
All specifications and compatibility data verified against officialVAUXHALL documentation and EU/UK regulatory texts. Where official data is unavailable, entries are marked “Undisclosed“ .
All external links open in new tabs. Please verify current availability of resources.
