The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer, specifically the variant equipped with the 1.6-liter Turbo Ecotec engine producing 170 horsepower and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, was a significant offering in the European D-segment station wagon market from July 2013 to January 2017. This model represented a key part of the facelifted ‘A’ generation (2013-2017) of the Insignia, building upon the original model launched in 2008. Positioned as a mid-range option, it aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and practicality for families and drivers seeking a comfortable and spacious vehicle.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (170 Hp) Turbo Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2013 |
| End of production | January, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 159 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 170 Hp @ 4250 rpm |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1650-4250 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1650-4250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A16XHT, B16SHL |
| 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.) |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt, 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 5.8 l (6.13 US qt, 5.1 UK qt) |
| 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 | 4913 mm (193.43 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm (82.05 in.) |
| Height | 1513 mm (59.57 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 Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Ecotec Automatic, introduced with the 2013 facelift, aimed to broaden the appeal of the Insignia range. The original Insignia, launched in 2008, had been a strong seller for Opel, challenging established players like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat. The facelift brought styling updates and, crucially, a new engine lineup including this 1.6-liter turbocharged unit. This variant was designed to offer a more economical and accessible entry point into the Insignia Sports Tourer range, appealing to buyers who prioritized fuel efficiency and ease of driving over outright performance. It sat below the more powerful 2.0-liter diesel and petrol options in the lineup.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Insignia variant lies the A16XHT (or B16SHL, depending on the specific production date) 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine is a member of Opel’s ‘Ecotec’ family, emphasizing efficiency and reduced emissions. It features multi-port fuel injection and a single turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output. The turbocharger provides increased power and torque compared to a naturally aspirated engine of similar displacement. The engine produces 170 horsepower at 4250 rpm and 260 Nm (191.77 lb.-ft.) of torque between 1650 and 4250 rpm. This torque curve provides good responsiveness in everyday driving situations. The engine is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, designed for smooth gear changes and ease of use. This transmission isn’t known for being particularly sporty, prioritizing comfort and fuel economy over rapid shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter Turbo Ecotec Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer delivers a comfortable and refined driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.9 seconds, and 0-100 km/h in 10.4 seconds, which is adequate for most driving situations but doesn’t offer particularly brisk performance. Compared to the 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol or diesel variants, this engine feels less powerful, especially when fully loaded or tackling steep inclines. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving style, but can sometimes feel hesitant when needing to make quick overtakes. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained at higher speeds. However, the engine’s torque delivery makes it feel more powerful than the horsepower figure suggests, providing sufficient grunt for everyday driving.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia Sports Tourer 1.6 Turbo Ecotec Automatic typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric windows, a CD/radio system with USB connectivity, alloy wheels, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as ‘SE’ or ‘Elite’ (depending on the market), added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, 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 Sports Tourer features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between comfort and handling. The suspension is tuned to prioritize ride comfort, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively. Braking is handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard. The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and easy steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.6-liter Turbo Ecotec Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical option. It offered a good level of space and comfort for families, with a large boot capacity. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 34.6 US mpg. Compared to the more powerful Insignia variants, it was seen as a more sensible choice for drivers who didn’t prioritize performance. However, some reviewers criticized the automatic transmission for being somewhat sluggish and the engine for lacking outright punch. The 2.0-liter diesel variants offered better fuel economy and more torque, while the 2.0-liter petrol provided more power.
Legacy
The 1.6-liter Turbo Ecotec engine proved to be generally reliable, although regular servicing is essential. Common issues include occasional turbocharger problems and oil leaks. The six-speed automatic transmission is also generally reliable, but can be expensive to repair if it fails. In the used car market, this variant of the Insignia Sports Tourer represents a good value proposition, offering a spacious and comfortable estate car at an affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and reasonable running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. While not the most exciting Insignia variant, it remains a practical and dependable choice for those seeking a family-friendly station wagon.
