The Opel Insignia A, produced from July 2010 to June 2013, represented a significant step forward for Opel in the mid-size segment. This generation, available as a hatchback, sedan, and wagon, aimed to compete with established rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. The 2.0 CDTI (160 hp) DPF 4×4 Automatic variant occupied a mid-range position within the Insignia lineup, offering a blend of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. It was positioned above the base 1.6L petrol and lower-powered diesel models, but below the more potent 2.8L V6 petrol and higher-output 2.0 BiTurbo diesel options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Hatchback (A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (160 Hp) DPF 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2010 |
| End of production | June, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1956 cm3 (119.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1613 kg (3556.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2135 kg (4706.87 lbs.) |
| Max load | 522 kg (1150.81 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 520 l (18.36 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1465 l (51.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4830 mm (190.16 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2737 mm (107.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Rear track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Insignia variant is the A20DTH, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of the GM/Fiat family of common rail diesel engines, known for its robust construction and relatively straightforward maintenance. The A20DTH utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. Fuel is delivered via a Bosch common rail direct injection system, operating at very high pressures to ensure efficient combustion. The engine features an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smoothness and reliability. It features adaptive shift patterns, adjusting to driving style and conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque provided by the A20DTH engine, coupled with the all-wheel-drive system, delivered a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10 seconds, which was adequate for everyday driving but not particularly sporty. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers compared to the more responsive manual transmission options. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction in inclement weather, making it a practical choice for drivers in regions with harsh winters or slippery road conditions. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, rather than outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI 4×4 Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as SE and Elite, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a navigation system, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia A utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The all-wheel-drive system employed a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles as needed. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia, and specifically the 2.0 CDTI 4×4 Automatic, received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the steering lacked some feel. Compared to the 1.8L petrol versions, the 2.0 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy and torque, making it a more practical choice for long-distance driving. The 2.0 BiTurbo diesel provided more power but came at a higher price point. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common concern with modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia A 2.0 CDTI 4×4 Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle in the used car market. The A20DTH engine, when properly maintained, can withstand high mileage. The automatic transmission is also known for its longevity. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. Today, these Insignias represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient family car with all-wheel-drive capability.
