The Saab 2∙2 TiD

Chef uses Saab’s 2∙2 litre TiD engine, which is similar to the 2∙0 DTi engine used in similar aged Astras and Vectras. This engine was manufactured by Isuzu, part of the General Motors Group. Since Saab is also a part of General Motors, that answers why it’s under the bonnet.

The TiD is a drive-by-wire design using an electronic control unit. This computer is fed information from a number of sensors dotted around the vehicle, including (but not limited to) the accelerator and clutch pedals, the steering system, the coolant temperature, the air intake temperature, the road speed, the engine speed, and the oxygen sensor. It uses the information in order to compute the precise quantity of petrol to squirt into each cylinder. The system puts emission control as the first priority.

Variants

Chef’s TiD is the first generation 2∙2 engine, with fixed geometry turbocharged turbine blades.

The later 2∙2 TiD has variable geometry turbine blades and produces more power and torque, up to 125 brake horsepower and 206 foot pounds of torque in the Saab 9-3.

Mechanical Reliability

The TiD’s main reliability weakness is the air mass meter. When this fails, engine output is dramatically reduced. Saab charge over £200 for the part although fitting takes all of five minutes.

Tuning

Within just a handful of days after buying the Saab, I had a DieselTune VP44 unit installed.