2018-2020 Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) 2.0d (170 Hp)

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) 2.0d (170 hp) represents a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size station wagon, produced from April 2018 to February 2020. Positioned as a practical and efficient option within the Insignia B range, this variant aimed to balance fuel economy with respectable performance for family and long-distance driving. It built upon the success of the original Insignia, offering increased space, improved technology, and a more refined driving experience. The Sports Tourer body style, or estate as it’s known in some markets, was a key selling point, providing a large cargo capacity that appealed to buyers needing versatility. This model is based on the GM/Opel’s Epsilon II platform.

Technical Specifications

INTRODUCTION

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) 2.0d 170 hp, launched in 2018, was a key variant in Opel’s lineup, designed to appeal to buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and relatively economical family vehicle. It represented a mid-range offering within the broader Insignia B range, slotting between the lower-powered diesel options and the more performance-focused petrol variants. The “B” designation signifies the second generation of the Insignia, which brought with it a lighter chassis, updated styling, and a host of new technologies. The Sports Tourer body style, a station wagon, was particularly popular in Europe, offering a compelling alternative to traditional SUVs.

Powertrain & Engine Architecture

At the heart of the Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0d (170 hp) lies the D20DTH engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel’s modern diesel engine family, utilizing a common-rail direct injection system for optimized fuel delivery and combustion. The D20DTH features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 170 horsepower at 3750 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine incorporates 16 valves (four per cylinder) and a compression ratio of 16.5:1. A diesel particulate filter (DPF) is standard, ensuring compliance with stringent Euro 6d-Temp emissions regulations. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard gearbox for this variant, offering a balance between fuel efficiency and driver engagement.

Driving Characteristics

The 170 hp diesel engine, paired with the 6-speed manual transmission, provided a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the engine delivered ample torque for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were well-chosen to maximize fuel efficiency and provide smooth acceleration. Compared to the higher-output diesel variants (like the BiTurbo), the 170 hp model felt less urgent, but it offered a more relaxed and refined driving experience. The manual transmission allowed for greater driver control, but it lacked the convenience of an automatic option. The front-wheel-drive configuration provided predictable handling, although it could exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.

Equipment & Trim Levels

The Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0d (170 hp) typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as Business Edition or Elite, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a navigation system, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather options available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was modern and ergonomically designed, with a focus on ease of use.

Chassis & Braking

The Insignia Sports Tourer (B) utilized a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, making it well-suited for long-distance journeys. Braking duties were handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) were standard safety features. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.

Market Reception & Comparison

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0d (170 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or tackling steep hills. Compared to the more powerful diesel variants, the 170 hp model offered a more affordable entry point into the Insignia range. Its fuel economy was competitive with other mid-size station wagons in its class, and its reliability was generally considered to be good. The manual transmission was seen as a positive by driving enthusiasts, but some buyers preferred the convenience of an automatic.

Legacy

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0d (170 hp) remains a popular choice in the used car market. The D20DTH engine is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs, provided it has been properly serviced. The availability of spare parts is generally good. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues, particularly if the vehicle has been primarily used for short journeys. Overall, the Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0d (170 hp) represents a practical and reliable family vehicle that offers a good balance of comfort, economy, and space.