The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer OPC 2.8 V6, produced from September 2013 to January 2017, represented the high-performance variant of Opel’s flagship wagon. Positioned as the top-tier trim level within the facelifted ‘A’ generation (2013-2017) Insignia range, the OPC (Opel Performance Center) model aimed to deliver a blend of practicality, space, and genuine performance. It competed with other high-performance estates like the Audi S4 Avant and BMW 3 Series Touring, offering a more affordable alternative while still providing a compelling driving experience. This particular version, equipped with the 2.8-liter V6 Turbo Ecotec engine and a six-speed automatic transmission, was marketed as the “Unlimited” version, signifying the removal of the electronic speed limiter.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | OPC 2.8 V6 (325 Hp) AWD Turbo Ecotec Automatic Unlimited |
| Start of production | September, 2013 |
| End of production | January, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.7 l/100 km (14.1 US mpg, 16.9 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 259 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 270 km/h (167.77 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 435 Nm @ 5250 rpm (320.84 lb.-ft. @ 5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A28NER, B28NER |
| Engine displacement | 2792 cm3 (170.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 74.8 mm (2.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1878 kg (4140.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2490 kg (5489.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 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) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4908 mm (193.23 in.) |
| Width | 1858 mm (73.15 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.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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
The heart of the Insignia OPC was the A28NER (and later B28NER) 2.8-liter V6 engine. This engine, part of Opel’s Ecotec family, featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized direct injection combined with a twin-scroll turbocharger. The twin-scroll design aimed to reduce turbo lag and improve responsiveness. The engine produced 325 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 435 Nm (320.84 lb-ft) of torque at the same engine speed. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was specifically tuned for the OPC model to provide quicker shifts and more aggressive downshifts. While a manual transmission was available in some European markets, the automatic was the standard offering in many regions, including the US (where the Insignia was sold as the Buick Regal GS).
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the powerful V6 engine, all-wheel drive, and the automatic transmission resulted in a surprisingly capable performance car. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph was achieved in around 5.7 seconds, and the electronically limited top speed of 155 mph was removed in the “Unlimited” version, allowing for a maximum speed of 270 km/h (167.77 mph). The all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a multi-plate clutch, provided excellent traction in various conditions. However, the automatic transmission, while improved over standard Insignia automatics, wasn’t as engaging as a manual gearbox. Gear changes were generally smooth, but lacked the immediacy desired by some enthusiasts. The OPC’s suspension was also stiffer than other Insignia models, providing more controlled handling but at the expense of some ride comfort.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia OPC came standard with a comprehensive list of features. Interior appointments included sport seats upholstered in Morrocana (a leatherette material) with OPC branding, aluminum pedals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Standard exterior features included a unique OPC body kit with aggressive front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and a rear spoiler. Optional extras included adaptive dampers (FlexRide), a panoramic sunroof, and a premium sound system. The “Unlimited” package specifically removed the speed limiter and often included upgraded brakes.
Chassis & Braking
The OPC featured a modified chassis compared to standard Insignia models. Stiffer springs and dampers, along with a lowered ride height, contributed to improved handling. The front suspension utilized the HiPerStrut design, which aimed to reduce torque steer and improve steering precision. Brakes consisted of ventilated discs all around, with larger front rotors and multi-piston calipers for enhanced stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, as was electronic stability control.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia OPC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, spacious interior, and relatively affordable price compared to its German rivals. However, some reviewers criticized the automatic transmission for lacking the engagement of a manual gearbox and noted that the ride quality could be firm on rough roads. Compared to the standard Insignia models, the OPC offered a significant performance upgrade, but at the cost of increased fuel consumption and a higher purchase price. The 1.8L and 2.0L turbo models offered better fuel economy and were more affordable, but lacked the OPC’s outright performance. The diesel variants, like the 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI, provided strong torque and good fuel economy, but didn’t offer the same level of excitement as the V6.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 has developed a cult following among enthusiasts. The 2.8L V6 engine, while complex, has proven to be relatively reliable when properly maintained. Common issues include oil leaks and occasional turbocharger problems, but these are generally not catastrophic. On the used car market, the OPC commands a premium over other Insignia models, reflecting its performance and exclusivity. The Insignia OPC represents a bold attempt by Opel to create a genuinely engaging and practical performance car, and it remains a compelling option for those seeking a spacious and powerful estate.
