The Vauxhall X 22 XE is a 2,198 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2003. It features single overhead camshaft (SOHC), multi‑point fuel injection, and an 8‑valve configuration. In standard form it delivers 98 kW (133 PS) and 200 Nm of torque, providing smooth and linear performance for mid‑size sedans and estates.
Fitted to models such as the Vectra B, Omega B, and Frontera B, the X 22 XE was engineered for durability, towing capabili…
All production years (1995–2003) meet Euro 2 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/1345).
The Vauxhall X 22 XE is a 2,198 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for mid-size sedans, estates, and SUVs (1995–2003). It combines multi-point fuel injection with SOHC 8-valve architecture to deliver predictable power and robust low-end torque. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and serviceability over high output.
| 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 | 200 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch MPFI (multi‑point fuel injection) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Belt (front‑mounted, service interval 60,000 km or 4 years) | |
Oil type | GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
Dry weight | 118 kg |
The Vauxhall X 22 XE was used across Vauxhall's Vectra B, Omega B, and Frontera B platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Frontera for off-road durability and modified accessory brackets in the Omega—and from 1998 minor camshaft updates were introduced to address lobe wear, creating service part interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The X 22 XE's primary reliability risk is exhaust camshaft lobe wear in early builds, with elevated incidence in sustained high-rpm or towing use. Vauxhall internal data from 2001 indicated a measurable uptick in camshaft replacements before 120,000 km for 1995–1997 units, while UK DVSA records show catalytic converter degradation as the second-most common emissions fault in high-mileage examples. Extended oil intervals and incorrect viscosity amplify cam and timing belt stress, making adherence to GM‑LL‑A‑001 oil and belt replacement critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1996–2003) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2003–2013). 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 XE is generally dependable when maintained properly, but early models (1995–1997) had exhaust camshaft lobe wear concerns. Post-1998 revisions improved cam durability. Using GM‑LL‑A‑001 oil and adhering to the 60,000 km timing belt interval greatly enhances longevity.
Top issues include exhaust cam lobe wear, timing belt failure if neglected, catalytic converter degradation, and vacuum leaks from aging hoses. These are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins like PI0108 and supported by DVSA MOT data.
The X 22 XE powers the Vectra B (1995–2002), Omega B (1995–2003), and Frontera B (1998–2003) in 133 PS form. All are longitudinally mounted Euro 2-compliant petrol engines with SOHC 8-valve architecture and multi-point fuel injection.
Modest gains are possible. The SOHC 8-valve design limits airflow; ECU remaps yield only +5–8 kW. Bolt-on upgrades (intake, exhaust) offer slight improvements, but cost-effectiveness is low due to the engine's age and modest base output.
In a Vectra 2.2i, expect ~10.2 L/100km (city), ~6.8 L/100km (highway), or ~29 mpg UK combined. Real-world mixed driving typically returns 26–32 mpg UK. Fuel economy is modest by modern standards due to older engine technology.
Yes. The X 22 XE is an interference design. If the timing belt fails, pistons can contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. Strict adherence to the 60,000 km or 4-year belt replacement is critical.
Vauxhall specifies GM‑LL‑A‑001 (SAE 10W‑40) oil. This ensures proper cam lobe and valve train protection. Change every 10,000 km or 12 months. Avoid non-approved oils to prevent premature wear.
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.