The Opel Insignia Grand Sport (B) 1.6 Turbo, produced from June 2018 to September 2019, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s flagship D-segment hatchback. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the broader Insignia B lineup, this variant combined a turbocharged four-cylinder engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, aiming to deliver a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort. It was primarily marketed in Europe, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. The Insignia Grand Sport, replacing the previous Insignia A, focused on a more dynamic design and improved interior space, appealing to families and drivers seeking a practical yet stylish vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Grand Sport (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 | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.1-8.3 l/100 km (29 – 28.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4-5.7 l/100 km (43.6 – 41.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4-6.7 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.1 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 146-153 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 232 km/h (144.16 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.4 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.3 kg/Nm |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| 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 | 1477 kg (3256.23 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2110 kg (4651.75 lbs.) |
| Max load | 633 kg (1395.53 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1450 l (51.21 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 | 730 kg (1609.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4897 mm (192.8 in.) |
| Width | 1863 mm (73.35 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2093 mm (82.4 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2829 mm (111.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 990 mm (38.98 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1078 mm (42.44 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 | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo is the D16SHT engine, a 1.6-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine belongs to Opel’s family of small displacement, direct-injection turbocharged engines. Direct injection, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, allows for a good balance of power and efficiency. The engine produces 200 horsepower at 5500 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1650 and 4500 rpm. The engine features a timing chain for durability and a relatively high 9.5:1 compression ratio. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, is designed for smooth shifting and optimized fuel economy. It features adaptive shift patterns that adjust to driving style and conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Turbo automatic powertrain delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 8 seconds. While not as quick as the higher-powered variants like the 2.0-liter turbo, the 1.6 Turbo provides sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving experience, particularly in urban environments. However, some drivers may find the transmission hesitant during quick downshifts. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offers less driver engagement but greater convenience. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Turbo variant typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered upgrades like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on base models, with leather options available on higher trims. Dashboard configurations were consistent across the range, featuring a modern and ergonomic design.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Grand Sport utilizes a front-wheel-drive platform with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension employs MacPherson struts, while the rear features a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable family car. It was praised for its spacious interior, refined ride, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or during spirited driving. Compared to the 2.0-liter turbo variants, the 1.6 Turbo offered lower running costs but less performance. The 1.6 Turbo’s fuel economy figures of 6.4-6.7 l/100 km (36.8 – 35.1 US mpg) were competitive within its segment. Reliability reports suggest that the D16SHT engine is generally reliable, although regular maintenance is crucial.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo represents a solid offering in the D-segment hatchback market. While not the most exciting variant in the lineup, it provided a compelling combination of practicality, comfort, and efficiency. On the used car market, these models offer good value for money, particularly for buyers seeking a spacious and well-equipped family car. The D16SHT engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a durable and reliable unit. The Insignia Grand Sport, as a whole, helped to establish Opel as a competitive player in the European market, offering a stylish and technologically advanced alternative to established rivals.
