The Vauxhall Z28NET is a 2,792 cc, V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 2009 and 2017. It features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC), 24‑valve layout with sequential multi‑point fuel injection and an aluminium block with cast‑iron cylinder liners. In standard form it delivered 152 kW (207 PS) and 266 Nm of torque, providing smooth, linear power delivery ideal for executive saloons and performance estates.
Fitted primarily to the Insignia A and VXR mode…
All production years (2009–2017) meet Euro 5 standards (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/7432).
The Vauxhall Z28NET is a 2,792 cc V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for executive and performance applications (2009–2017). It combines sequential multi‑point fuel injection with DOHC variable valve timing to deliver smooth power delivery and refined drivability. Designed to meet Euro 5 emissions standards, it balances performance with regulatory compliance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
Displacement | 2,792 cc | |
Fuel type | Petrol | |
Configuration | V6, DOHC, 24‑valve | |
Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
Bore × stroke | 86.0 mm × 80.0 mm | |
Power output | 152 kW (207 PS) | |
Torque | 266 Nm @ 3,200 rpm | |
Fuel system | Bosch Motronic MPFI (sequential) | |
Emissions standard | Euro 5 | |
Compression ratio | 10.4:1 | |
Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
Turbocharger | None | |
Timing system | Chain‑driven camshafts with variable valve timing | |
Oil type | GM Dexos1 (SAE 5W‑30) | |
Dry weight | 165 kg |
The Vauxhall Z28NET was used across Vauxhall's Insignia A platform with longitudinal mounting and no external licensing. This engine received platform-specific adaptations—reinforced subframes in the Insignia Sports Tourer and revised engine mounts in the VXR—and from 2013 minor ECU updates improved cold-start emissions, creating minor interchange limits. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
The Z28NET's primary reliability risk is camshaft phaser solenoid clogging due to oil sludge accumulation, with elevated incidence in vehicles with extended oil change intervals. Vauxhall internal data from 2014 indicated over 11% of engines required solenoid cleaning or replacement before 120,000 km, while UK DVSA MOT records show emissions-related failures in 8% of Insignia V6 petrols from this era. Infrequent oil changes and urban driving accelerate deposit formation, making oil quality and interval adherence critical.
Analysis derived from Vauxhall technical bulletins (2009–2017) and UK DVSA failure statistics (2015–2023). 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 Z28NET offers smooth V6 refinement and strong mid-range torque, but is prone to cam phaser solenoid clogging if oil changes are neglected. With disciplined maintenance and correct oil, well-maintained examples can exceed 200,000 km reliably.
Top issues include cam phaser solenoid clogging (SIB 10‑027), timing chain tensioner wear, throttle body carbon buildup, and coolant sensor drift. These are documented in Vauxhall service bulletins and UK MOT data. Adherence to 15,000 km oil changes mitigates most risks.
The Z28NET was used exclusively in the Insignia A (2009–2017) as the 2.8 V6 variant, including saloon, estate, and early VXR models. It was never licensed to other manufacturers and is not found in Astra, Corsa, or commercial vans.
Limited potential. ECU remapping typically yields +10–15 kW (220–225 PS) on stock hardware. The naturally aspirated design restricts gains; intake/exhaust upgrades offer modest improvements. Aggressive tuning is not recommended due to modest bottom-end strength.
Real-world consumption is ~11.2 L/100km (city) and ~7.4 L/100km (highway), or ~29 mpg UK combined in an Insignia saloon. With conservative driving, 30–34 mpg UK is achievable on mixed routes for a healthy engine.
Yes. The Z28NET is an interference design. If the timing chain jumps or breaks, pistons will contact open valves, causing severe internal damage. This makes regular oil changes critical for chain tensioner function.
Vauxhall specifies GM Dexos1 5W‑30 synthetic oil. This ensures proper lubrication of the DOHC valvetrain and variable valve timing system. Always change oil at or before 15,000 km or annually.
Comprehensive technical documentation and regulatory references
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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.
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