The Vauxhall X 22 SE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2003. It features multi‑point fuel injection, a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), and 8 valves. In standard form it delivers 98 kW (133 PS) at 5,200 rpm and 190 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, offering smooth and linear power delivery for mid‑size sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Omega B and Vectra B, the X 22 SE was engineered for relaxed motorway cruising, relia…
All production years (1995–2003) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2233).
The Vauxhall X 22 SE is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive sedans and estates (1995–2003). It combines multi‑point fuel injection with SOHC architecture to deliver dependable highway performance and torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical robustness and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,198 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol (RON 95 min) | |
Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 94.6 mm | |
Power output | 98 kW (133 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
Torque | 190 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi‑point fuel injection) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 9.4:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt‑driven SOHC (replace every 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
Oil type | ACEA A2/B2 or GM 9310M (10W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 124 kg |
The Vauxhall X 22 SE was used across Vauxhall's Omega B and Vectra B platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Omega B estate and modified accessory drive routing in the Vectra B—and from 1999 received updated timing belt tensioner kits, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The X 22 SE's primary reliability risk is timing belt tensioner and idler pulley failure under sustained motorway use or infrequent servicing, with elevated incidence in pre-1999 builds. Vauxhall internal data from 2002 indicated a measurable uptick in belt-related breakdowns for early units before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related MOT failures due to robust catalyst design. Infrequent oil changes and low-quality oil increase upper valvetrain and timing component stress, making maintenance adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2008). 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 X 22 SE is generally dependable with proper maintenance, but early models (1995–1998) had tensioner pulley concerns under sustained motorway use. Post-1999 revisions improved timing system durability significantly. With regular oil changes (10W‑40 ACEA A2/B2) and timely timing belt replacement, these engines can exceed 200,000 km reliably.
Top issues include timing belt tensioner/idler pulley seizure (pre-1999), timing belt failure if neglected, throttle body carbon buildup, and water pump coolant leaks. All are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins and repair manuals.
This 2.2L petrol appears in the Omega B (1995–2003) and Vectra B (1995–2002), both in the 133 PS variant. It is not used in commercial vehicles or non-Vauxhall GM brands under this code.
Limited potential. Basic tuning (performance exhaust, cold air intake) can yield +8–12 kW (145–150 PS) safely. The SOHC head flows modestly, and aggressive tuning is not recommended due to marginal fuel system capacity. Always use RON 98 fuel with tuned maps.
In an Omega 2.2i, expect ~10.5 L/100km (city), ~7.2 L/100km (highway), or ~32 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 28–34 mpg UK, depending on conditions and driving style.
Yes. The X 22 SE is an interference design. If the timing belt fails, pistons can strike open valves, causing severe internal damage. This underscores the critical importance of replacing the belt every 60,000 km or 4 years.
Vauxhall specifies ACEA A2/B2 or GM 9310M 10W‑40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil. Full synthetic is acceptable if it meets the same specification. Never use low-viscosity oils (e.g., 0W‑20), as they may not provide adequate valvetrain protection.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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)
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
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