The Opel Insignia Grand Sport (B) 1.6 Turbo, produced from June 2018 to September 2019, represents a significant iteration of Opel’s flagship D-segment hatchback. Positioned as a mainstream offering within the Insignia B range, it aimed to balance performance and fuel efficiency for the average European driver. This variant utilized a direct-injection turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 200 horsepower and serving as a popular alternative to the more expensive and performance-focused trims, as well as the diesel options. It was a key model in Opel’s lineup during a period of transition under PSA Group ownership.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Grand Sport (B) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (200 Hp) |
| Start of production | June, 2018 |
| End of production | September, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.7-8.0 l/100 km (30.5 – 29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.3 l/100 km (46.1 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1-6.3 l/100 km (38.6 – 37.3 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 139-145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 235 km/h (146.02 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 7.1 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1650-4500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1650-4500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16SHT |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1428 kg (3148.2 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2090 kg (4607.66 lbs.) |
| Max load | 662 kg (1459.46 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1450 l (51.21 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1410 kg (3108.52 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 730 kg (1609.37 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4897 mm (192.8 in.) |
| Width | 1863 mm (73.35 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2093 mm (82.4 in.) |
| Height | 1455 mm (57.28 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2829 mm (111.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 990 mm (38.98 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1078 mm (42.44 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.74 m (38.52 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo lies the D16SHT engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel’s Small Displacement Gasoline (SDG) family, known for its combination of direct injection, turbocharging, and variable valve timing. The direct injection system, coupled with the turbocharger, allows for efficient combustion and a broad torque curve. The engine utilizes a single-scroll turbocharger to minimize turbo lag and improve responsiveness. The engine’s valvetrain features dual overhead camshafts (DOHC) and four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for increased power output. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement. While an automatic transmission was offered on other Insignia variants, it wasn’t typically paired with this specific 200 hp engine.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Turbo engine delivers a respectable 200 horsepower and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque, providing adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes approximately 7.7 seconds. The engine’s peak torque is available from a relatively low 1650 rpm, offering good responsiveness in typical driving situations. Compared to the higher-output 2.0-liter turbocharged engine found in the Insignia GSi, the 1.6 Turbo feels less potent, particularly at higher speeds. However, it offers a more fuel-efficient and refined driving experience. The 6-speed manual transmission provides precise shifts, and the gear ratios are well-matched to the engine’s power delivery. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, although it can exhibit some torque steer under hard acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo typically came equipped with a generous amount of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features such as leather upholstery, heated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on 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 Grand Sport features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable and controlled ride. The suspension is tuned to balance ride comfort and handling. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) are standard features, enhancing safety and stability. The chassis is relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its larger counterparts. Compared to the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine, the 1.6 Turbo offered better fuel economy but less exhilarating acceleration. The 1.6 Turbo also provided a more affordable entry point into the Insignia range, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. Compared to diesel variants, the 1.6 Turbo offered a smoother and quieter driving experience, albeit with slightly higher fuel consumption.
Legacy
The D16SHT engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, with few widespread issues reported. However, like all turbocharged engines, it requires regular maintenance, including oil changes and inspections of the turbocharger and intercooler. On the used car market, the Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Turbo represents a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and well-equipped hatchback at an affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for those seeking a practical and economical family car. The Insignia, in general, helped to establish Opel as a competitor in the D-segment, offering a compelling alternative to established rivals like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat.
