The Opel Insignia OPC 2.8 V6, produced from September 2013 to January 2017, represented the high-performance variant of the Insignia A hatchback, particularly after its facelift. Positioned as the flagship model, it aimed to deliver a blend of practicality, comfort, and substantial performance, competing with rivals like the Ford Mondeo ST and Volkswagen Passat R36. This variant was exclusively offered with a turbocharged V6 engine, all-wheel drive, and a six-speed automatic transmission, making it a unique offering in the European market. The “Unlimited” designation referred to the removal of the electronic speed limiter, allowing for a higher top speed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Hatchback (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | OPC 2.8 V6 (325 Hp) AWD Turbo Ecotec Automatic Unlimited |
| 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) | 16.1 l/100 km (14.6 US mpg, 17.5 UK mpg, 6.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.5 l/100 km (31.4 US mpg, 37.7 UK mpg, 13.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 10.7 l/100 km (22 US mpg, 26.4 UK mpg, 9.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 251 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 | 270 km/h (167.77 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.4 kg/Hp, 184.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 246.5 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 | 1765 kg (3891.16 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2355 kg (5191.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 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%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 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 | 6 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia OPC 2.8 V6, launched after the 2013 facelift, was the performance halo car for the Insignia A range. Built on the GM’s Epsilon II platform (internal codes 1HX0/A3), it aimed to provide a compelling alternative to more established premium performance cars. The OPC (Opel Performance Center) designation signified a focus on enhanced performance and handling. The hatchback body style was particularly popular in Europe, offering a blend of practicality and sporty aesthetics. The removal of the speed limiter, signified by the “Unlimited” suffix, was a key selling point for enthusiasts.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia OPC lay the A28NER (and later B28NER) 2.8-liter V6 engine. This engine was a naturally aspirated 90-degree V6, boosted by a twin-scroll turbocharger and intercooler. It featured direct injection and variable valve timing on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The engine produced 325 horsepower at 5250 rpm and 435 Nm (320.84 lb-ft) of torque at the same engine speed. The six-speed 6T70 automatic transmission, sourced from General Motors, was the sole transmission option. This transmission featured manual shift mode and adaptive learning to optimize shift points based on driving style. The all-wheel-drive system utilized a multi-plate clutch to distribute torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability.
Driving Characteristics
The Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 delivered brisk acceleration, achieving 0-60 mph in around 5.7 seconds and a top speed of 167.77 mph (270 km/h). The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as responsive as a dual-clutch transmission found in some competitors. However, it provided comfortable cruising and effortless highway driving. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent grip in various conditions, making the car feel planted and secure. Compared to lower-powered Insignia variants, the OPC offered a significantly more engaging driving experience, with sharper steering and a more controlled ride, thanks to its stiffer suspension setup. The exhaust note was also more aggressive, adding to the sporty character.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia OPC came generously equipped as standard. Key features included sports seats upholstered in Morrocana (a leatherette material), a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and aluminum pedal covers. Infotainment was provided by Opel’s IntelliLink system with a touchscreen display. Optional extras included adaptive cruise control, a panoramic sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The interior trim was generally dark-themed, with accents of red stitching to emphasize the car’s performance credentials. Exterior styling cues included a unique front bumper with larger air intakes, a rear spoiler, and quad exhaust outlets.
Chassis & Braking
The OPC featured a specially tuned chassis with stiffer springs and dampers compared to standard Insignia models. The front suspension utilized the HiPerStrut system, designed to minimize torque steer and improve steering precision. At the rear, a multi-link suspension provided excellent wheel control. Braking duties were handled by large ventilated discs all around, providing ample stopping power. The OPC also featured an electronic stability control system (ESP) with a sport mode, allowing for a degree of controlled oversteer.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission wasn’t as engaging as a manual gearbox, and the fuel economy was relatively poor. Compared to the standard Insignia models, the OPC offered a significant performance upgrade, but it came at a higher price. Against rivals like the Ford Mondeo ST and Volkswagen Passat R36, the OPC offered a compelling blend of performance and value, although it lacked the brand prestige of some competitors.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 has developed a following among enthusiasts. The 2.8L V6 engine, while not the most fuel-efficient, is known for its reliability and tunability. The all-wheel-drive system provides excellent traction in all weather conditions. On the used car market, OPC models tend to command a premium over standard Insignia variants. Maintenance costs can be higher due to the complexity of the engine and drivetrain, but the car’s overall build quality is generally good. The Insignia OPC represents a bold attempt by Opel to create a genuinely engaging and capable performance car, and it remains a distinctive and desirable model today.
