MORE powerful diesel and petrol engines are to be introduced in the Vauxhall car and van range over the next year. Timings have yet to be announced, but the 2.2-litre 16-valve petrol unit, first seen in the Astra Coupe and now powering the VX200, is likely to become available in the Astra, Zafira and Vectra by the autumn.

The premium over 2.0-litre units will be about £250. Fitted in Zafira, the 2.2 will provide 0-60mph acceleration of nine seconds and 31.7mpg combined cycle fuel economy. The seven-seater compact people carrier will also have the choice of a 100bhp 2.0-litre direct injection diesel to replace the 82bhp unit. The 2.0 DTi 16v will also be used in Vectra, giving sub-10 seconds 0-60mph sprint times.

Both Vectra and Omega will also have a 120bhp 2.2-litre DTi, which in the Omega replaces the less torquey 130bhp 2.5-litre turbodiesel. A new 2.6-litre V6 will replace the 2.5 V6 in Vectra and Omega models and the Astra Coupe will receive a new 190bhp turbo in October. Replacement diesel premiums of £200 are expected.