2006-2011 Opel Vivaro A (facelift ) 2.5 CDTI (146 Hp)

The Opel Vivaro A, particularly the facelifted version introduced in 2006, represents a significant entry in the mid-size van segment. While not officially sold in the United States, the Vivaro is a popular commercial and passenger vehicle in Europe, known for its practicality, versatility, and relatively efficient diesel powertrains. This generation of the Vivaro, produced from 2006 to 2011, was the result of a collaborative effort between Opel (and its sister brands Peugeot and Citroën), sharing a common platform and many components with the Peugeot Expert and Citroën Dispatch of the same era. The 2.5 CDTI variant, equipped with a 146 horsepower engine, was a common configuration, balancing performance with fuel economy for both commercial and family use.

Opel Vivaro A (Facelift 2006) 2.5 CDTI: An Overview

The Vivaro A facelift, launched in July 2006, brought subtle styling updates and, crucially, the introduction of more advanced diesel engines meeting stricter emissions standards. The 2.5 CDTI engine became a mainstay, offering a good compromise between power and fuel efficiency for a vehicle primarily designed for carrying passengers or cargo. The van’s design focused on maximizing interior space and usability, making it a popular choice for businesses needing a reliable workhorse and for families seeking a spacious and adaptable vehicle. Its 9-seat configuration made it suitable for larger families or shuttle services.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the 2006 Opel Vivaro A 2.5 CDTI is a 2.5-liter inline-six cylinder diesel engine, designated the G9U 630. This engine produces 146 horsepower at 3500 rpm and 320 Nm (236.02 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1500 and 2250 rpm. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system and is equipped with a turbocharger and intercooler to enhance performance and efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a 5-speed manual transmission. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 13.1 seconds, while 0 to 60 mph is achieved in approximately 12.4 seconds. The van has a maximum speed of 163 km/h (101.28 mph). The engine’s specific output is 59.3 horsepower per liter, demonstrating a reasonable level of efficiency for a diesel engine of this size and era. The weight-to-power ratio is 13.2 kg/Hp, and the weight-to-torque ratio is 6 kg/Nm.

Design & Features

The Opel Vivaro A is a front-engine, front-wheel-drive minivan with a four-door configuration. Its design prioritizes practicality and interior space. The van’s body measures 4782 mm (188.27 in.) in length, 1904 mm (74.96 in.) in width, and 1982 mm (78.03 in.) in height. The wheelbase is 3098 mm (121.97 in.). The interior is designed for flexibility, with the ability to configure seating to accommodate up to nine passengers. The rear cargo area offers a minimum of 1200 liters (42.38 cu. ft.) of space, expanding to a maximum of 3100 liters (109.48 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded or removed. Safety features for this era included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The van’s relatively simple design focused on durability and ease of maintenance, making it a cost-effective option for commercial operators. A particulate filter was included to reduce emissions, meeting Euro 5 standards.

Technical Specifications