VAUXHALL has doubled service intervals for most of its engine range from 10,000 miles to 20,000 miles or one year. The move is intended to help fleets cut running costs and follows a move to synthetic oils and the addition of a brake pad wear indicator to all models that have been upgraded.

The changes affect the Agila, Corsa, Astra, Astra Coupe, Zafira, Vectra and Omega range. Vauxhall's engine range has been upgraded and improved to raise emission standards for most models to Euro IV regulations.

The 2.2-litre unit, already in the Omega and the VX220, is transferred to the Astra, Zafira and the Vectra and replaces the current 2.0-litre engines, which remain in use in the Astra Turbo 2.0-litre. V6 engines have increased in size to 2.6-litres from 2.5-litres for Vectra and Omega, while Omega customers will also have the choice of a 3.2-litre engine in spring next year. A new 2.2-litre diesel engine is also being introduced and will be provided for the Vectra, offering 125bhp and 199 lb-ft of torque at 1,500rpm, and Omega.

A battle for business in the van sector has prompted Vauxhall to launch longer service intervals and better warranties on its LCVs. After launching a three-year/60,000-mile warranty for car users earlier this month, the firm announced van users would receive three-year/100,000-mile warranties. The new 2.8-tonne Vivaro was launched with new 20,000-mile two-year service intervals, along with two new 1.9-litre common rail turbodiesel engines. A new 2.5-litre version planned after the van goes on sale in spring.