Diesel engines are self-igniting and don't require spark plugs. To achieve self-ignition, diesel engines require a compression ratio up to double that of a typical petrol engine and this higher compression ratio leads to better efficiency. Diesel engines do not use a throttle valve in the intake system to control air flow into the engine. This equates to much higher efficiency compared to a petrol engine at part pedal operation such as city traffic driving.
Available on Holden passenger cars; Cruze, diesel engines are up to 20% more fuel efficient than their petrol counterparts.
Today's diesel engines are engineered to deliver potent turbocharged performance. The exceptional amount of torque available at low revs adds to the driving experience, particularly when driving up hills, overtaking and towing.
Future-driven, advanced diesel technology generally has less impact on the environment with diesel engines typically emitting less CO2 than their petrol equivalents. Significant fuel savings also help conserve the world's precious energy resources.
Diesel engines can travel much further on a tank of fuel than an equal sized petrol engine in an equivalent vehicle. A greater fuel range means fewer trips to the service station.
All diesel powered Holden Captiva, Cruze and Colorado vehicles utilise common rail fuel delivery, one of the most important new technologies in diesel engines. It supplies diesel directly to each engine cylinder at constant high pressure, regardless of engine speed, which results in smoother, quieter running with higher power and torque outputs, and better fuel efficiency.
The Holden diesel Captiva and Cruze passenger cars are fitted with diesel particulate filters, which trap particulate matter (soot) from the diesel exhaust before it can enter the atmosphere. By adding a particulate filter it is estimated that you can cut more than 80% of particle emissions.
Are diesel engines noisy?
Modern diesel engines are not loud. New diesel technology and improved modern manufacturing techniques has led to a significant noise reduction.
Do diesel vehicles have as much power as petrol vehicles?
Yes, in fact diesel engines generally have more torque in the lower rev ranges than petrol cars.
Diesel fuel is a great alternative when fuel prices are soaring as it is more fuel efficient than petrol. Because it has a higher energy density, more energy can be extracted from diesel fuel and therefore higher mileage achieved. In fact, a litre of diesel will usually drive a car 20%-30% further than petrol.
The use of BioDiesel containing up to 5% fatty acid methyl ester ("FAME") also known as "B5" is also permitted provided that the FAME meets the Euro Standard EN14214, and the resultant B5 blend meets Euro Standard EN590. Do not use marine diesel oils or heating oils.
