The Vauxhall Omega B 2.5 TD Automatic, produced between 1994 and 1999, represents a significant evolution in the Omega lineage. As the flagship model of Vauxhall (a British brand under the Stellantis umbrella), the Omega B aimed to provide a spacious, comfortable, and technologically advanced executive car experience. While not officially sold in the United States, the Omega B was a popular choice in Europe, particularly in the United Kingdom and Germany, competing with vehicles like the Ford Executive, BMW 5 Series, and Mercedes-Benz E-Class. This variant, powered by a 2.5-liter turbocharged diesel engine, offered a blend of performance and fuel economy geared towards long-distance driving.
Vauxhall Omega B 2.5 TD: An Overview
The Omega B generation, launched in 1994, marked a substantial departure from its predecessor, the Omega A. It featured a more aerodynamic design, improved interior space, and a wider range of engine options. The 2.5 TD model specifically catered to buyers seeking a diesel-powered vehicle with ample torque for effortless cruising. The automatic transmission further enhanced its appeal for those prioritizing convenience. The Omega B was known for its robust build quality and relatively affordable price point within the executive car segment.
Engine & Performance
The heart of the Omega B 2.5 TD is its 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 use of a turbocharger and intercooler significantly boosts power output and improves throttle response. The engine’s longitudinal front-engine layout and rear-wheel drive configuration contribute to balanced handling. The 4-speed automatic transmission provides smooth gear changes, although it’s not as efficient as modern multi-gear automatics. The vehicle achieves a maximum speed of 195 km/h (121.17 mph). The weight-to-power ratio of 11.9 kg/Hp and weight-to-torque ratio of 6.2 kg/Nm demonstrate a reasonable balance between engine output and vehicle mass. The engine utilizes a diesel commonrail fuel injection system for optimized combustion and reduced emissions for its time.
Design & Features
The Vauxhall Omega B is a four-door sedan with a classic, understated design. Its aerodynamic shape, evidenced by a drag coefficient of 0.29, contributes to improved fuel efficiency and reduced wind noise. The interior is spacious and well-appointed, offering comfortable seating for five passengers. Key features included power steering, central locking, and electric windows. Safety features, while not as comprehensive as modern standards, included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System). The trunk offers a generous 530 liters (18.72 cu. ft.) of cargo space. The Omega B’s design prioritized practicality and comfort over outright sportiness, making it a suitable vehicle for families and long-distance commuters. The vehicle’s dimensions – 4787 mm (188.46 in.) in length and 1786 mm (70.31 in.) in width – reflect its status as a large executive car.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Vauxhall |
| Model | Omega |
| Generation | Omega B |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5 TD (130 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 1994 |
| End of production | 1999 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.3 l/100 km (20.8 US mpg / 25 UK mpg / 8.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.9 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 | 1545-1575 kg (3406.14 – 3472.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2065 kg (4552.55 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490-520 kg (1080.27 – 1146.4 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 | 4 gears, automatic 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 Automatic, while not a performance car, offered a compelling package of comfort, space, and fuel efficiency for its time. Its robust engineering and relatively affordable price made it a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and practical executive vehicle in the European market.
