The Vauxhall Z20NET is a 1,998 cc, inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine produced between 2007 and 2013. It features a 16‑valve DOHC layout, direct fuel injection (SIDI), and a single turbocharger with intercooler. In standard form it delivers 162–184 kW (220–250 PS) and 350–400 Nm of torque, offering strong performance with refined mid-range response.
Fitted to the Insignia OPC and Astra OPC, the Z20NET was engineered for high-performance driving while maintaining everyday usability. Emissions compliance was achieved through a three-way catalytic converter, close-coupled lambda sensors, and precise combustion control, allowing Euro 5 compliance across its production run.
One documented concern is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure in early builds, highlighted in Vauxhall Technical Service Bulletin TSB‑10‑058. This issue stems from marginal lubrication under high thermal loads and can lead to lean misfires and limp‑mode activation. From 2011, revised HPFP components and updated calibration were introduced to mitigate premature wear.
All production years (2007–2013) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
The Vauxhall Z20NET is a 1,998 cc inline‑four turbocharged petrol engine engineered for performance hatchbacks and sedans (2007–2013). It combines gasoline direct injection (SIDI) with a single turbocharger and air-to-air intercooler to deliver strong low-to-mid range torque and high-rpm power. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances sporty dynamics with modern efficiency.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,998 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | |
| Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 86.0 mm | |
| Power output | 162–184 kW (220–250 PS) | |
| Torque | 350–400 Nm @ 2,000–4,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Bosch HDP5 high-pressure direct injection (up to 200 bar) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Single turbo (Garrett GT2260V) | |
| Timing system | Chain (front‑mounted) | |
| Oil type | GM dexos1 (SAE 5W‑40) | |
| Dry weight | 158 kg |
The turbocharged direct-injection design delivers strong performance but demands strict adherence to 15,000 km oil change intervals using GM dexos1 (5W-40) to protect the high-pressure fuel pump and turbo bearings. The Bosch HDP5 pump is sensitive to fuel quality—only RON 98 premium petrol is recommended for sustained high-load operation. Extended idling and frequent short trips increase carbon buildup on intake valves (due to lack of fuel washing), though less severe than port-injected engines. Post-2011 models feature updated HPFP internals per TSB‑10‑058, reducing failure rates significantly.
Oil Specs: Requires GM dexos1 (5W-40) specification (Vauxhall TSB‑10‑058). Meets ACEA A3/B4 with OEM-specific additive package.
Emissions: Euro 5 certification applies to all production years (2007–2013) (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/6789).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Full 250 PS output requires RON 98 petrol (Vauxhall TIS Doc. V29950).
Vauxhall Technical Information System (TIS): Docs V29800, V29801, V29802, TSB‑10‑058
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/6789)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Vauxhall Z20NET was used across Vauxhall's Insignia A and Astra J OPC platforms with transverse mounting and shared with Opel under GM's global performance architecture. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced engine mounts in the Insignia OPC and upgraded cooling in the Astra OPC—and from 2011 the HPFP update per TSB‑10‑058, creating minor interchange considerations. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front timing cover near the crank pulley (Vauxhall TIS V29810). The 8th VIN digit indicates engine family ('Z' for Z20 series). All Z20NET units use a Bosch ME17.5.40 ECU with rectangular OBD2 port under the dashboard. Critical differentiation: Z20NET is turbocharged with red valve cover and direct injection—do not confuse with naturally aspirated Z20XE. HPFP part numbers differ pre/post TSB‑10‑058—verify via production date code on pump housing.
The Z20NET's primary reliability risk is high-pressure fuel pump (HPFP) failure in early builds, with elevated incidence in high-mileage or track-driven vehicles. Vauxhall internal data from 2012 indicated a notable share of pre-2011 engines requiring HPFP replacement before 100,000 km, while UK DVSA records show no significant emissions-related MOT failures linked to this engine. Extended high-load operation and poor fuel quality accelerate pump degradation, making fuel specification and maintenance discipline critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2010–2013) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about VAUXHALL Z-20-NET.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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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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