The Opel Insignia Country Tourer, specifically the 2.0 CDTI (163 hp) AWD Ecotec Automatic variant produced from September 2013 to June 2015, represents a niche offering within the broader Insignia range. Positioned as a more rugged, all-weather capable version of the standard Insignia Sports Tourer (wagon), the Country Tourer aimed to blend estate car practicality with a degree of off-road ability. This particular engine and transmission combination occupied a mid-range position in the Country Tourer lineup, offering a balance between performance, fuel economy, and cost. It was part of the A generation Insignia, benefitting from the 2013 facelift which brought styling and technological updates.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Country Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (163 Hp) AWD Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 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 | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTH |
| 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 | 4920 mm (193.7 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Height | 1522 mm (59.92 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 Country Tourer 2.0 CDTI is the A20DTH engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel/Vauxhall’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The A20DTH utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wide rev range. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm. This torque figure is particularly important for a wagon intended for towing or carrying loads. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet Euro 5 emission standards.
The automatic transmission paired with this engine is a six-speed unit. While not known for being the sportiest automatic, it prioritizes smooth shifts and fuel efficiency. The transmission is electronically controlled, adapting shift points based on driving conditions and throttle input. The all-wheel-drive system is an electronically controlled, on-demand system. Under normal driving conditions, the system primarily operates in front-wheel drive to conserve fuel. However, when wheel slip is detected, it seamlessly engages the rear wheels to provide enhanced traction.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp 2.0 CDTI automatic powertrain delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 10.8 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly brisk performance. The strength of this setup lies in its mid-range torque, making it easy to overtake and maintain speed on highways. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving style, particularly in urban environments. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 BiTurbo diesel or the petrol variants, this version feels less urgent, but it offers a significant fuel economy advantage. The all-wheel-drive system provides enhanced stability and grip, especially on slippery surfaces, making it a suitable choice for drivers in regions with inclement weather.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Country Tourer trim level generally included a higher level of standard equipment compared to the base Insignia models. Standard features typically included alloy wheels, roof rails, front fog lights, automatic climate control, and a touchscreen infotainment system. Interior upholstery was usually a cloth or a combination of cloth and leatherette. Optional extras available for this trim included leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning, and a premium audio system. The Country Tourer also featured unique exterior styling elements, such as body cladding and a raised ride height, to emphasize its rugged character.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Country Tourer’s chassis is based on the Opel/Vauxhall’s flexible ‘Delta’ platform. The suspension is comprised of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The Country Tourer variant typically featured slightly stiffer spring rates and dampers compared to the standard Insignia to cope with the increased weight and potential for off-road use. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). The steering is electrically assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia Country Tourer, and specifically the 2.0 CDTI Automatic variant, was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and all-weather capability. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the overall driving experience wasn’t as engaging as some of its rivals. Compared to the higher-output diesel variants, the 163 hp version offered better fuel economy and lower running costs, making it a more practical choice for drivers who prioritize efficiency. Against competitors like the Volkswagen Passat Alltrack and the Audi A6 allroad, the Insignia Country Tourer offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting them in price while providing a similar level of practicality and features.
Legacy
The A20DTH engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the DPF system. Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent DPF blockages. The six-speed automatic transmission is also relatively robust, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. In the used car market, the Insignia Country Tourer 2.0 CDTI Automatic represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and capable wagon. Its all-wheel-drive system and diesel engine make it well-suited for a variety of driving conditions, and its relatively affordable price point makes it an attractive alternative to more expensive premium brands.
