The Vauxhall Omega B 2.5 TD is a large family car produced by Vauxhall, the British arm of General Motors, between 1994 and 1999. Representing the second generation of the Omega, the ‘B’ series was a significant step forward in terms of refinement, technology, and overall build quality. While not officially sold in the United States, the Omega B was a popular executive car in the United Kingdom and mainland Europe, competing with models like the Ford Mondeo, BMW 5 Series, and Audi A6. The 2.5 TD variant, powered by a turbocharged diesel engine, offered a blend of performance and economy aimed at drivers covering long distances.
Vauxhall Omega B 2.5 TD: An Overview
The Omega B was designed to replace the outgoing Omega A, addressing criticisms of its somewhat dated styling and interior. The new model featured a more aerodynamic shape, a more spacious interior, and a wider range of engines. The 2.5 TD model specifically catered to those seeking a fuel-efficient and capable long-distance cruiser. It was positioned as a practical and comfortable alternative to more expensive premium brands. The Omega B, in general, was known for its robust construction and relatively low running costs, making it a popular choice for fleet operators and private buyers alike.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Omega B 2.5 TD is a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine, designated 25DT or X25DT. This engine produces 130 horsepower at 4500 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque at 2200 rpm. The engine utilizes a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. The power-to-weight ratio is 12 kg/Hp, or 83.6 Hp/tonne, providing adequate acceleration for a vehicle of its size. Maximum speed is rated at 200 km/h (124.27 mph). Fuel consumption is rated at 9 liters per 100 kilometers in urban driving (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l). The engine features a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout and rear-wheel drive configuration contribute to balanced handling characteristics.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Omega B is a four-door sedan with a traditional three-box design. Its styling, while conservative, was considered modern for its time, with a focus on aerodynamic efficiency, evidenced by its drag coefficient of 0.29. The interior prioritizes space and comfort, offering seating for five passengers. Key features included power steering, central locking, and electric windows. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern vehicles, included an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The Omega B’s trunk (boot) offers a generous 530 liters (18.72 cu. ft.) of storage space. The vehicle’s dimensions are substantial, measuring 4787 mm (188.46 in.) in length, 1786 mm (70.31 in.) in width, and 1455 mm (57.28 in.) in height. The wheelbase is 2730 mm (107.48 in.).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Omega |
| Generation | Omega B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 TD (130 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9 l/100 km (26.1 US mpg, 31.4 UK mpg, 11.1 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 52.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2200 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | 25DT, X25DT |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 (152.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 80 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.8 mm (3.26 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 22:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 10.2 l (10.78 US qt | 8.97 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1555-1569 kg (3428.19 – 3459.05 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 496-510 kg (1093.49 – 1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 75 l (19.81 US gal | 16.5 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4787 mm (188.46 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1960 mm (77.17 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2730 mm (107.48 in.) |
| Front track | 1514 mm (59.61 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1528 mm (60.16 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1140 mm (44.88 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.29 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 10.2 m (33.46 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Rear wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
The Vauxhall Omega B 2.5 TD, while never officially available in the US market, represents a well-engineered and comfortable executive car that was popular in Europe. Its blend of diesel efficiency, spaciousness, and robust build quality made it a practical choice for both private and fleet buyers.
