Opel’s engine manufacturing plant in Kaiserslautern, Germany, has begun producing the new 2.0-liter diesel engine that debuted at this year’s Paris Auto Show.
Available on the Opel Insignia and Zafira Tourer, the Euro 6-compliant engine produces 170PS (168hp) and 400Nm (295lb-ft) of torque and features “considerably reduced consumption and emissions,” according to Opel. However, the company hasn’t yet released fuel economy and CO2 emissions figures.
Noise and vibration levels have been lowered, with Opel promising “smoothness previously unknown in this segment.” In idle mode, the new diesel is five decibels quieter than its predecessor, the 2.0 CDTi with 163PS (161hp) and 380Nm (280lb-ft) of torque.
The new unit also marks the start of a new generation of large diesel engines, which will be developed by engineers in Torino and Rüsselsheim, with assistance from the team in North America.
“The plant in Kaiserslautern is making a valuable contribution to Opel’s powertrain offensive by producing the youngest member of the two-liter diesel engine family. We are proud to have been chosen to build this high-tech engine. The experienced team will master this task and deliver in the usual high quality,” said Peter Winternheimer, provisional plant manager of Opel Kaiserslautern.
The plant in Kaiserslautern has built over 9 million engines since 1980 and has been producing diesel engines since 1982. In 1996, a new diesel engine plant was built and production increased. The plant also produces bodywork and chassis components.
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