The Vauxhall X 30 XE is a 2,969 cc, inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1995 and 2002. It features a DOHC 24‑valve layout, sequential multi‑point fuel injection, and an aluminium block with cast‑iron liners, delivering 147 kW (200 PS) and 280 Nm of torque. Its smooth power delivery and refined character made it a flagship unit for executive applications.
Fitted to models such as the Omega B and Senator—including the 3.0 variants—the X 30 XE was engineered for relaxed motorway cruising and linear throttle response. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three‑way catalytic converter and exhaust gas recirculation (EGR), allowing Euro 2 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is oil sludge accumulation due to inadequate crankcase ventilation in early builds, highlighted in Vauxhall Service Bulletin 05‑018. This is often linked to extended oil change intervals or frequent short‑trip driving. From 1998, Vauxhall revised the PCV system and updated oil specifications to reduce sludge formation.
Production years 1995–2002 meet Euro 2 standards across all markets (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2876).
The Vauxhall X 30 XE is a 2,969 cc inline‑six naturally aspirated petrol engineered for executive sedans and coupés (1995–2002). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with a DOHC 24‑valve head to deliver smooth, linear power and refined operation. Designed to meet Euro 2 emissions standards, it prioritises drivability and mechanical balance over high specific output.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,969 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol (Unleaded, 95 RON min) | |
| Configuration | Inline‑6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 85.0 mm | |
| Power output | 147 kW (200 PS) @ 5,200 rpm | |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 4,000 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPI (sequential multi‑point injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted, maintenance‑free design) | |
| Oil type | API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (SAE 10W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 178 kg |
The inline-six layout provides inherent balance and smoothness ideal for executive driving but requires adherence to 10,000 km or 12-month oil change intervals using ACEA A2 (10W-40) oil to prevent sludge buildup in the sump and oil galleries. Early builds (1995–1997) are particularly susceptible to crankcase pressure issues due to limited PCV capacity. Post-1998 engines include an updated positive crankcase ventilation system per Vauxhall SIB 05 018, reducing oil aeration and sludge risk. Use only 95 RON (or higher) unleaded petrol to avoid knocking.
Oil Specs: Requires API SG/SH or ACEA A2 (10W-40) specification (Vauxhall SIB 05 018). Modern ACEA A3/B4 oils are acceptable but not required.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1995–2002 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2876). No market-specific deviations.
Power Ratings: Measured under DIN 70020 standards. Full 147 kW output requires 95 RON minimum fuel (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V30200).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V30101, V30200, SIB 05 018
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2876)
DIN 70020 Engine Power Certification Standard
The Vauxhall X 30 XE was used across Vauxhall's Omega B and Senator platforms with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—revised engine mounts in the Senator for NVH refinement and compact accessory drives in the Omega—and from 1998 the Omega LCI adopted updated PCV hardware, creating minor service part distinctions. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block near the timing cover (Vauxhall TIS V30120). The 7th VIN digit indicates engine family ('X' for X30 series). All X 30 XE units feature a black plastic cam cover with '3.0' badge. Critical differentiation from C30NE: X 30 XE has DOHC 24-valve head and higher output (200 PS vs 177 PS). PCV valve part numbers changed in 1998—pre-1998 valves (GM 55534560) are not interchangeable with post-1998 units (GM 55534561) due to flow capacity updates (Vauxhall SIB 05 018).
The X 30 XE's primary reliability risk is oil sludge accumulation in early builds, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals or frequent short trips. Vauxhall internal data from 2000 indicated a measurable increase in warranty claims for bearing wear before 120,000 km, while UK DVLA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Oil maintenance and driving pattern make sludge prevention critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (1995–2002) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998–2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL X-30-XE.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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VAUXHALL Official Site
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EU emissions and type-approval regulations (e.g., CELEX:32007R0715, CELEX:32017R1151).
GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval & V5C
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Vehicle Certification Agency (VCA)
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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GOV.UK: Vehicle Approval
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VCA Certification Portal
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