The Opel Insignia OPC (known as the Vauxhall VXR in the UK) was the high-performance variant of the Insignia model range, launched in 2008 and receiving a significant facelift in 2013. The 2.8 V6 OPC, produced from September 2013 to January 2017, represented the pinnacle of the Insignia’s performance capabilities. This model aimed to compete with premium performance hatchbacks like the Audi S3 and BMW 335i, offering a compelling blend of power, practicality, and relative affordability. It was positioned as the flagship model within the Insignia lineup, offering significantly more performance than the standard trims and the 2.0-liter turbocharged options.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Hatchback (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | OPC 2.8 V6 (325 Hp) AWD Turbo Ecotec |
| Start of production | September, 2013 |
| End of production | January, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 15.8 l/100 km (14.9 US mpg, 17.9 UK mpg, 6.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.6 l/100 km (30.9 US mpg, 37.2 UK mpg, 13.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.6 l/100 km (22.2 US mpg, 26.6 UK mpg, 9.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 249 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 | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 185.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 248.6 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 | 1750 kg (3858.09 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2330 kg (5136.77 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| 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) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2000 kg (4409.25 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4842 mm (190.63 in.) |
| Width | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm (82.05 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 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 | 11.7 m (38.39 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia OPC, launched in 2013 following a facelift of the original A-generation model, was designed to be a performance flagship for the Insignia range. Built on the GM’s Epsilon II platform (internal code 1HX0/A3), the OPC aimed to deliver a compelling combination of performance, practicality, and technology. The 2.8-liter V6 Turbo Ecotec engine, coupled with all-wheel drive, was the centerpiece of this high-performance variant. It was marketed towards drivers seeking a sporty and capable vehicle that could also function as a comfortable daily driver. The OPC was a key model in Opel’s attempt to elevate its brand image and compete more effectively in the European market.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Insignia OPC is the A28NER/B28NER 2.8-liter V6 engine. This engine is a 60-degree V6, utilizing a cast aluminum block and cylinder heads. It features direct injection combined with multi-port fuel injection, optimizing both power and efficiency. The engine is turbocharged, employing a twin-scroll turbocharger to minimize turbo lag and improve responsiveness. The engine management system is a Bosch ME9. The engine produces 325 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 435 Nm (320.84 lb-ft) of torque at the same engine speed. The engine’s architecture is designed for durability and high output, with strengthened internal components to handle the increased stress. The OPC was exclusively offered with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering direct control to the driver. The transmission is robustly built to handle the engine’s torque output.
Driving Characteristics
The Insignia OPC delivers a surprisingly engaging driving experience, considering its size and weight. The all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a multi-plate clutch, provides excellent traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 5.7 seconds, and the car has an electronically limited top speed of 155 mph. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, and the engine provides a broad torque curve, making it responsive in various driving situations. Compared to the standard Insignia models, the OPC features a significantly stiffer suspension setup, reducing body roll and improving handling. However, this comes at the expense of some ride comfort. The steering is direct and well-weighted, providing good feedback to the driver. While not as nimble as smaller hot hatches, the OPC offers a confident and capable driving experience, particularly on winding roads.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia OPC came generously equipped as standard. Key features included sport seats upholstered in Morrocana (a leatherette material) with OPC branding, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedal covers. The interior also featured unique OPC-specific trim elements. Standard equipment also included automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system. The OPC’s interior was designed to convey a sporty and premium feel, differentiating it from the lower trim levels.
Chassis & Braking
The OPC’s chassis was significantly upgraded compared to the standard Insignia. It featured a stiffer suspension setup with recalibrated dampers and springs. The front suspension utilized the HiPerStrut system, designed to minimize torque steer and improve handling. The rear suspension featured a multi-link design. Braking performance was also enhanced, with larger ventilated discs on all four wheels. The OPC also featured Brembo-sourced calipers for improved stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced safety and control. The car’s weight distribution was optimized for balanced handling, contributing to its overall stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia OPC received generally positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its powerful engine, all-wheel-drive system, and spacious interior. However, some critics noted its relatively high weight and the slightly firm ride. Compared to other trims in the Insignia lineup, the OPC offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was also considerably lower than the more economical engine options. Compared to rivals like the Audi S3 and BMW 335i, the OPC offered a compelling value proposition, providing similar performance for a lower price. However, it lacked the brand prestige of its German competitors.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia OPC, particularly the 2.8 V6 variant, has gained a following among enthusiasts. The engine is known for its reliability and tunability, with many owners opting for aftermarket modifications to further increase power output. While not as common as some other performance cars, the OPC has established itself as a capable and enjoyable driving machine. On the used car market, well-maintained examples of the OPC command a reasonable price, reflecting its performance capabilities and relative rarity. The OPC represents a bold attempt by Opel to create a genuinely competitive performance car, and it remains a fondly remembered model within the Insignia range.
