The Opel Insignia Country Tourer (B) 1.5 Turbo (165 hp) Automatic, produced from October 2017 to June 2018, represents a specific configuration within the second generation of Opel’s flagship Insignia model. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Country Tourer lineup – Opel’s all-road variant of the Insignia Sports Tourer (estate) – this version combined a downsized turbocharged gasoline engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, aiming to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for long-distance touring and light off-road capability. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the Insignia competed with vehicles like the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, Skoda Octavia Scout, and Ford Mondeo Vignale.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Country Tourer (B) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.5 Turbo (165 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | October, 2017 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg, 35.3 UK mpg, 12.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg, 49.6 UK mpg, 17.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9 kg/Hp, 111.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.9 kg/Nm, 169.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 165 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 110.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 2000-4500 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B15XFT |
| Engine displacement | 1490 cm3 (90.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86.6 mm (3.41 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.1:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1477 kg (3256.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 633 kg (1395.53 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1665 l (58.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1405 kg (3097.49 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 740 kg (1631.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 5004 mm (197.01 in.) |
| Width | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2093 mm (82.4 in.) |
| Height | 1525 mm (60.04 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2829 mm (111.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1002 mm (39.45 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1173 mm (46.18 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.74 m (38.52 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/50 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Insignia Country Tourer is the B15XFT, a 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel’s wider family of small-displacement, direct-injected turbocharged engines designed to improve fuel economy and reduce emissions. Direct injection is a key feature, allowing for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger with intercooling to boost power output. The valvetrain employs four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and performance. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle.
The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, specifically a General Motors 6T40/6T45 unit. This transmission is known for its smooth shifting characteristics and relatively quick response. It features electronically controlled shift points and adaptive learning capabilities to optimize performance based on driving style. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it provides convenient automatic operation for everyday driving.
Driving Characteristics
The 165 hp and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the 1.5 Turbo engine provide adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and top speed is limited to 130 mph. The automatic transmission is tuned for comfort and fuel efficiency, resulting in relatively relaxed gear changes. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine options available in the Insignia range, this variant feels noticeably less responsive, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. However, the engine delivers sufficient torque for comfortable cruising on highways and provides a relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are optimized for fuel economy, meaning it doesn’t always select the most aggressive gear for maximum acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Country Tourer trim level, even with the 1.5 Turbo engine, came reasonably well-equipped. Standard features typically included alloy wheels, roof rails, all-wheel drive (a key feature of the Country Tourer), automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, heated seats, and a premium audio system. The Country Tourer trim focused on providing a more rugged and versatile vehicle compared to the standard Insignia models.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Country Tourer features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride quality. The all-wheel-drive system utilizes a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction in slippery conditions. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
Critics generally viewed the 1.5 Turbo Automatic Insignia Country Tourer as a sensible and practical choice for buyers prioritizing fuel economy and comfort over outright performance. Fuel economy figures of around 36.2 US mpg combined were competitive within its class. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter variants, this version offered a lower price point but sacrificed performance. The 1.9-liter diesel options provided superior fuel economy and torque but came with the potential for higher maintenance costs associated with diesel particulate filters.
Legacy
The B15XFT engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit occasional issues with timing chain wear in some instances. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally durable, but regular fluid changes are crucial for maintaining its longevity. In the used car market, the 1.5 Turbo Automatic Insignia Country Tourer represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Insignia range. Its combination of practicality, comfort, and reasonable fuel economy makes it a popular choice for families and long-distance commuters. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for timing chain issues and ensure the transmission has been regularly serviced.
