The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer, specifically the 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) AWD Ecotec Automatic variant produced from 2013 to June 2015, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size wagon offering. This model falls within the ‘A’ generation of the Insignia, benefitting from a facelift introduced in 2013 that refined both its aesthetics and technology. Positioned as a higher-trim level, it catered to buyers seeking a blend of practicality, performance, and all-weather capability within the European market. The Sports Tourer body style, Opel’s designation for a station wagon, aimed to compete with established players like the Ford Mondeo Estate and Volkswagen Passat Variant.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (195 Hp) AWD Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.6 l/100 km (27.4 US mpg, 32.8 UK mpg, 11.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 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 | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 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.) |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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) |
| 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 (Back) track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| 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 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI AWD lies the A20DTR engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel’s Ecotec family, emphasizing efficiency and refinement. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance, boosting power output to 195 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet Euro 5 emission standards. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, chosen for its smooth operation and ease of use, particularly appealing to drivers prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 195 hp and all-wheel-drive configuration of this Insignia Sports Tourer provided a confident and capable driving experience. While not a sports car, the engine delivered ample power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t particularly quick to downshift, resulting in a slightly less responsive feel compared to the manual transmission options available. The all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a multi-plate clutch, provided excellent traction in adverse weather conditions, making it a practical choice for regions experiencing rain or snow. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance between fuel efficiency and usable power, prioritizing mid-range torque over high-revving performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI AWD Automatic trim typically included a generous level of standard equipment. This often encompassed features such as dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette, with higher-spec models offering full leather options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and upgraded audio systems. The facelifted 2013 model benefited from revised interior trim and improved infotainment options compared to earlier Insignia models.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sports Tourer’s chassis was designed to provide a comfortable yet controlled ride. The front suspension utilized MacPherson struts, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, coupled with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS). The all-wheel-drive system added to the vehicle’s stability, particularly during braking on slippery surfaces. Steering was electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI AWD Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and strong performance. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the fuel economy, while respectable, wasn’t class-leading. Compared to the lower-powered 1.8L petrol versions, the 2.0 CDTI offered significantly more torque and better fuel efficiency. Against the higher-output 2.0 BiTurbo diesel, it provided a more affordable entry point with a good balance of performance and economy. Reliability reports generally indicated good dependability, although DPF issues were a common concern with diesel engines of this era.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI AWD Automatic has established itself as a reliable and practical used car option. The A20DTR engine, while requiring regular maintenance (particularly regarding the DPF), is generally considered durable. The all-wheel-drive system remains a valuable asset for drivers in inclement weather. Today, these vehicles can be found at reasonable prices, offering a compelling combination of space, comfort, and capability for those seeking a well-equipped and versatile station wagon. The Insignia, in general, helped to elevate Opel’s brand image and demonstrated the company’s ability to compete with established European automakers in the mid-size segment.
