Opel will unveil a new turbocharged 1.0-litre three–cylinder petrol engine at this year’s Frankfurt International Motor Show, ahead of its debut in the company’s Adam city car.
The first of a new, modular range of three and four-cylinder gasoline engines, the 12-valve, 1.0 SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) unit produces the same 85 kW (115 hp) as the naturally aspirated 1.6-litre engine that it replaces, while developing almost 30 percent more torque at 166 Nm. Teamed with a new six-speed manual transmission designed specifically for medium torque applications, Opel has managed to construct a gearbox with a dry weight of 37 kg that is 30 percent lighter than its predecessor and packaged within a unit measuring just 375 mm across its axis.
Notable factors contributing to the all-aluminium powerplant’s efficiency include a cylinder head with integrated exhaust manifold, which is bolted directly to the turbocharger. This compact installation results in the delivery of a fast boost charge for strong, low-end power. The unrefined tag associated with three-cylinders has been dealt with thanks partly to the installation of a chain-driven balance shaft in the oil sump. The counter-rotating shaft spins at the same speed as the crankshaft, offsetting any inherent vibrations. Covers for the engine, manifold and camshaft housing, along with a low-hiss turbo compressor and specially designed oil pan ensure noise levels lower than its turbocharged 1.6-litre counterparts.
No specific numbers were released, but Opel stated that this new engine not only requires 20 percent less fuel than its predecessor, but that CO2 emissions are significantly lower than 100 g/km.
[Source: Opel]