The Opel Insignia Hatchback (A, facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTI (195 Hp) Ecotec Automatic represents a significant iteration of Opel’s mid-size offering, positioned as a premium variant within the Insignia range. Introduced with the facelift in 2013 and continuing through June 2015, this model aimed to combine fuel efficiency with respectable performance, appealing to drivers seeking a comfortable and capable family vehicle. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where Opel held a strong presence, competing with vehicles like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. This specific configuration, pairing the 2.0-liter CDTI diesel engine with a six-speed automatic transmission, offered a balance between refinement and usability, making it a popular choice for long-distance commuting and family travel.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Hatchback (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (195 Hp) Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 195 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 99.7 Hp/l |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| 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 | 530 l (18.72 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1470 l (51.91 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4842 mm (190.63 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm (82.05 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 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.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia 2.0 CDTI Automatic lies the A20DTR engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The A20DTR utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 195 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This broad torque curve contributes to strong mid-range acceleration, making it well-suited for everyday driving. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was chosen for its smooth shifting characteristics and responsiveness. It’s programmed to prioritize fuel economy while still providing adequate performance when needed.
Driving Characteristics
The 195 hp 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia offers a comfortable and composed driving experience. While not as overtly sporty as some of its rivals, it provides ample power for overtaking and highway cruising. The automatic transmission contributes to a relaxed driving style, particularly in urban environments. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes approximately 8.4 seconds, which is respectable for a vehicle of this size and weight. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6 CDTI variants, the 2.0 CDTI offers a noticeable improvement in performance, especially when fully loaded. However, it doesn’t match the outright acceleration of the higher-output petrol engines available in the Insignia range. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel slightly strained when pushed hard, but the transmission generally selects the appropriate gear for the driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI Automatic trim typically sat in the mid-range of the Insignia lineup. Standard equipment generally included features such as air conditioning, a CD/MP3 stereo system, alloy wheels, electric windows, and remote central locking. Higher trim levels, such as the Cosmo and Elite, added features like leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, heated seats, and advanced safety systems like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and parking sensors.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Hatchback utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, resulting in a relatively soft ride quality. Braking systems varied depending on the specific trim level, but the 2.0 CDTI Automatic typically featured disc brakes on all four wheels, along with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and electronic stability control. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. The automatic transmission was noted for its smoothness, although some reviewers found it to be slightly hesitant at times. Compared to other trims in the Insignia lineup, the 2.0 CDTI Automatic offered a compelling combination of performance and economy. It was more expensive than the 1.6 CDTI variants, but provided a noticeable improvement in power and refinement. Fuel economy figures of around 40.6 US mpg combined were competitive for its class.
Legacy
The A20DTR engine, while generally reliable, is known to require regular maintenance, particularly regarding the diesel particulate filter (DPF). Proper servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are crucial to prevent DPF issues. The six-speed Aisin automatic transmission is also considered to be durable, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Today, used examples of the Insignia 2.0 CDTI Automatic represent a relatively affordable option for buyers seeking a spacious and comfortable family car. Its fuel efficiency and decent performance continue to make it a practical choice, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the diesel engine and DPF system.
