Opel 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC is Engine of the Year 2005

Opel's state-of-the-art 1.3 CDTI common-rail turbo-diesel unit from the ECOTEC engine family is 'Engine of the Year 2005'. The International Engine of the Year Award jury, made up of motoring journalists from 26 countries, chose the compact engine developed by GM Powertrain as winner in the 1.0- to 1.4-litre displacement class.

Opel offers the 1.3 CDTI unit with a power output of 70 bhp and a maximum torque of 170 Nm. This engine is available in the Corsa model, which can be viewed at United Automobile Limited, Opel's agents in Malta. All those interested in this vehicle can also book a test drive to sample the performance of this world-leading engine.

The jury cited the 1.3 CDTI's smooth performance, high refinement and exemplary economy as the main reasons for voting it 'Engine of the Year'. Thanks to its design, the diesel unit proved superior not only to petrol engines, but also to hybrid concepts from competitors. The engine complies with Euro 4 emission standards.

Hans H. Demant, managing director, Adam Opel AG and GME vice-president, Engineering, welcomed the 1.3 CDTI ECOTEC engine's victory. "We are very proud of this respected award. It recognises the innovative excellence of our engineers, and once again underlines our position as a leading manufacturer of diesel engine cars."

"Winning the 'Engine of the Year Award' is a fantastic achievement for Opel," United Automobile Limited managing director Edmund Gatt Baldacchino said.

"Opel currently has a number of offers on its whole range of Opel vehicles, including the Corsa, so drivers have the opportunity to buy the car with the best engine at an excellent price."

United Automobile Limited can be contacted at their showroom in Abate Rigord Street, Ta' Xbiex, or on tel: 2132-0560.