The Opel Insignia Country Tourer (B) 1.6 Turbo, produced from June 2018 to September 2019, represents a specific variant within the broader Insignia B generation (2017-2022). Positioned as a more rugged, all-weather oriented version of the standard Insignia Sports Tourer, the Country Tourer aimed to blend estate car practicality with a degree of off-road capability and a more premium feel. This particular 1.6 Turbo configuration, delivering 200 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, occupied a mid-range position in the Country Tourer lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel efficiency, and price. It was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile family vehicle capable of handling diverse driving conditions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Country Tourer (B) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (200 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | June, 2018 |
| End of production | September, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3 l/100 km (28.3 US mpg, 34 UK mpg, 12 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 156 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 227 km/h (141.05 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.5 kg/Hp, 132.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 185.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 125.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1650-4500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1650-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16SHT |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1507 kg (3322.37 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2160 kg (4761.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 653 kg (1439.62 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%) | 1450 kg (3196.7 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 5004 mm (197.01 in.) |
| Width | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1941 mm (76.42 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| 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 | 8J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia Country Tourer (B) 1.6 Turbo, launched in 2018, built upon the success of the original Insignia, offering a more versatile and capable estate car. The “Country Tourer” designation signified a focus on all-weather performance and a slightly more rugged aesthetic. This variant, powered by the 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was a key offering in the lineup, targeting families and individuals who needed a practical, comfortable, and reasonably efficient vehicle for both everyday commuting and longer journeys. It sat within the Insignia B range, which utilized the GM’s E2 platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform, shared with other vehicles like the Buick Regal.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia Country Tourer 1.6 Turbo lies the D16SHT engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine equipped with direct injection and a turbocharger. This engine is part of Opel’s Small Displacement Gasoline (SDG) family. Direct injection allows for precise fuel delivery, improving efficiency and reducing emissions. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosts power output by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 200 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1650 and 4500 rpm. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth operation and efficiency. It features adaptive shift patterns, adjusting to driving style and conditions. The transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, prioritizing comfortable cruising rather than outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Turbo automatic powertrain delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not particularly sporty, it provides adequate acceleration for everyday driving situations. The 0-60 mph time of around 8 seconds is respectable, and the engine offers sufficient torque for overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission shifts smoothly, and the adaptive shift program helps to maintain the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engine available in other Insignia variants, the 1.6 Turbo feels less urgent, but it offers better fuel economy. Against the diesel options, like the 1.6 TDI, the 1.6 Turbo provides a more responsive and refined feel, albeit with slightly higher fuel consumption. The Country Tourer’s all-wheel-drive system (available on some trims, but not standard with this engine) further enhances traction and stability in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia Country Tourer 1.6 Turbo typically came well-equipped, reflecting its positioning as a premium estate car. Standard features often included alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, dual-zone climate control, and a suite of safety features such as automatic emergency braking and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or leatherette, with higher trims offering full leather options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, heated seats, and a premium sound system. The Country Tourer trim also added unique exterior styling elements, such as silver-colored underbody protection and distinctive alloy wheel designs.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Country Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension is tuned to prioritize comfort over outright sportiness, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. The Country Tourer’s increased ride height, compared to the standard Insignia, provides slightly improved ground clearance for tackling rougher terrain, although it’s not a dedicated off-road vehicle.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia Country Tourer 1.6 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter engine could feel underpowered when the car was fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 2.0-liter turbocharged variants, the 1.6 Turbo offered a more affordable entry point into the Country Tourer range, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. In terms of reliability, the 1.6 Turbo engine has proven to be generally dependable, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure long-term durability. Fuel economy figures of around 34.6 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia Country Tourer 1.6 Turbo represents a well-rounded and practical estate car that offered a compelling blend of comfort, versatility, and efficiency. While the Insignia line has been discontinued, these models remain relatively common on the used car market. The 1.6 Turbo powertrain, when properly maintained, has proven to be reliable, making these vehicles a sensible choice for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable family car. Its blend of practicality and reasonable running costs ensures it continues to hold appeal for those seeking a versatile and dependable vehicle.
