The Opel Insignia Sedan (A, facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) Ecotec start/stop represents a mid-cycle refresh of Opel’s flagship D-segment sedan. Introduced in 2013 and continuing through June 2015, this variant aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency within the Insignia lineup. Positioned as a higher-output diesel option, it catered to drivers seeking more power than the base engines while still benefiting from the economy associated with a diesel powerplant. The facelift brought styling updates and technological enhancements to the original Insignia, solidifying its position as a competitive offering in the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sedan (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (195 Hp) Ecotec start/stop |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.1 l/100 km (57.4 US mpg, 68.9 UK mpg, 24.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 125 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 195 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTR |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1015 l (35.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4842 mm (190.63 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm (82.05 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2737 mm (107.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Insignia variant is the A20DTR, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Opel/Vauxhall’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The A20DTR utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, provides a broad torque curve and responsive power delivery. The engine also incorporates Opel’s Start/Stop system, automatically shutting off the engine when the vehicle is stationary to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with full control over gear selection. The engine’s valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, contributing to its breathing efficiency and overall performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 195 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.0 CDTI engine provided a noticeable step up in performance compared to the lower-powered diesel options available in the Insignia range. Acceleration from 0-60 mph in around 8.3 seconds was respectable for a D-segment sedan. The engine’s peak torque, available from 1750-2500 rpm, meant that strong pulling power was readily accessible for overtaking and highway cruising. The 6-speed manual transmission allowed for precise gear changes, although the gear ratios were tuned more for fuel economy than outright performance. Compared to the 260 hp 2.8L V6 petrol engine, the 2.0 CDTI lacked the V6’s immediate responsiveness and refined power delivery, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The handling was typical of front-wheel-drive sedans, with a tendency towards understeer when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) variant typically came equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as SE and Elite, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium audio system, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sedan’s chassis featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to balance ride comfort with body control. Braking duties were handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were standard, enhancing braking performance and stability in challenging conditions. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, good fuel economy, and comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the interior design, while functional, lacked the premium feel of some of its competitors. Compared to other D-segment sedans like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the Insignia offered a compelling combination of value and features. The 2.0 CDTI engine provided a good balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice for drivers who covered long distances.
Legacy
The A20DTR engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent DPF issues. Today, used examples of the Insignia 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) can be found at reasonable prices, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Insignia’s spacious interior, comfortable ride, and decent fuel economy continue to appeal to those seeking a practical and affordable family sedan. The facelifted model, with its updated styling and improved technology, remains a competitive offering in the used car market.
