The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (A) 2.0 CDTI 130 hp Automatic, produced from February 2009 to June 2013, represents a key variant within the first generation (A) of Opel’s Insignia model line. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this station wagon (estate) combined a fuel-efficient diesel engine with the convenience of an automatic transmission, targeting buyers seeking practicality and comfort. It was a significant model for Opel, aiming to compete with established players in the European mid-size wagon segment, such as the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. The Insignia, in general, was Opel’s attempt to move upmarket and offer a more sophisticated alternative to its previous Vectra model.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (130 Hp) DPF Automatic |
| Start of production | February, 2009 |
| End of production | June, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.7 l/100 km (41.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 151 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.6 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 407 Nm @ 1750 rpm (300.19 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DT |
| 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 | 16.5:1 |
| 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 | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1633 kg (3600.15 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2300 kg (5070.63 lbs.) |
| Max load | 667 kg (1470.48 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1530 l (54.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4908 mm (193.23 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2737 mm (107.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 225/55 R17; 245/45R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (A) 2.0 CDTI Automatic, launched in 2009, was a crucial part of Opel’s strategy to revitalize its image and compete more effectively in the D-segment. Built on the GM Delta II platform (also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform), the Insignia aimed to offer a blend of style, practicality, and technology. The Sports Tourer body style, the wagon variant, was particularly important in European markets where estate cars remain popular. The 2.0 CDTI engine with 130 horsepower, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, was designed to provide a balance between performance and fuel economy, appealing to a broad range of customers.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Insignia variant is the A20DT 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and improving efficiency. The valvetrain employs an overhead camshaft (OHC) configuration. The 130 hp output was achieved through careful calibration of the engine management system. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth operation and efficiency. It featured adaptive shift patterns, adjusting to driving style and conditions. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to prioritize fuel economy and comfortable cruising, rather than outright acceleration.
Driving Characteristics
The 130 hp 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. While not particularly sporty, it provided adequate power for everyday driving and long-distance journeys. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.1 seconds, and top speed was limited to 198 km/h (123 mph). The automatic transmission contributed to a relaxed driving style, particularly in urban traffic. Compared to the manual transmission version of the same engine, the automatic offered less driver involvement but greater convenience. Higher-output versions of the 2.0 CDTI (160 hp and 195 hp) and the 2.8L V6 petrol engine provided significantly more performance, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows, power steering, a CD/radio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as Cosmo and Sport, added features like leather upholstery, a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced infotainment system. Optional extras included navigation, heated seats, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on the base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sports Tourer featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll. The suspension tuning was geared towards comfort, making it a pleasant cruiser. The weight distribution was reasonably balanced, contributing to predictable handling characteristics.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the Insignia offered a more stylish design and a slightly more affordable price point. The 1.8L petrol versions offered a different driving experience, prioritizing refinement over fuel economy, while the higher-output diesel variants provided more performance. Fuel economy was a strong point for the 2.0 CDTI, averaging around 41.3 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The A20DT 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. The six-speed Aisin automatic transmission is also considered relatively durable, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Today, used examples of the Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI Automatic are readily available and represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and comfortable family wagon. Its blend of space, fuel efficiency, and affordability continues to make it a popular choice in the used car market.
