The Opel Insignia Sedan (A) 2.0 CDTI 110 hp variant, produced from July 2010 to June 2013, represented an entry-level diesel offering within the first generation (A) Insignia lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, it aimed to broaden the Insignia’s appeal beyond the more powerful and premium trims. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, where diesel sedans held a significant market share, offering a balance between economy and usability for family and business users. It was built on the GM Epsilon II platform, shared with other vehicles like the Chevrolet Malibu and Saab 9-3.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sedan (A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (110 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | July, 2010 |
| End of production | June, 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 14.7 kg/Hp, 68.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 161.2 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 56.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 260 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (191.77 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTL |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| 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) |
| Kerb Weight | 1613 kg (3556.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.) |
| Max load | 527 kg (1161.84 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1010 l (35.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4830 mm (190.16 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 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 | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 225/55 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Insignia variant is the A20DTL 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine belongs to the Opel/Fiat family of common rail direct injection diesels. It features a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The A20DTL utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine employs an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, contributing to its relatively efficient operation. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, chosen for its fuel efficiency and lower cost compared to the optional automatic. The engine’s design prioritized torque delivery at low to mid-range RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving and providing adequate pulling power.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 hp output, coupled with the 6-speed manual transmission, resulted in a driving experience focused on fuel economy and practicality rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 11.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 190 km/h (118 mph). The engine’s torque peak of 260 Nm (191.77 lb-ft) available from 1750-2500 rpm provided sufficient power for overtaking and highway cruising. Compared to the more powerful 160 hp or 195 hp versions of the 2.0 CDTI, this variant felt noticeably slower, particularly during acceleration. The gear ratios were tuned for economy, meaning the engine often needed to be revved to maintain speed when fully loaded or climbing hills. The manual transmission offered precise shifts, but the overall driving experience was geared towards comfort and efficiency.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI 110 hp Insignia Sedan typically came with a base level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an audio system with CD player. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but relatively basic design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, a more advanced audio system, parking sensors, and a sunroof. Higher trim levels, such as the Cosmo or Sport, added features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and upgraded infotainment systems, but these were not standard on the 110 hp model.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sedan (A) featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The 110 hp variant typically used smaller wheels (16 or 17 inch) with tires sized 215/60 R16 or 225/55 R17. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension setup was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering, but the overall handling characteristics were more suited to relaxed cruising than aggressive driving.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI 110 hp was generally well-received as a practical and fuel-efficient option. Critics praised its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and good fuel economy (around 53.5 US mpg). However, it was often criticized for its relatively slow acceleration and lack of excitement compared to higher-powered variants. Compared to the 160 hp or 195 hp versions, the 110 hp model offered significantly lower running costs but at the expense of performance. The 1.9 CDTI models, while offering similar fuel economy, were often seen as a more refined and quieter alternative. The 110 hp variant appealed to buyers prioritizing economy and practicality over driving thrills.
Legacy
The A20DTL 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 blockages. The 6-speed manual transmission is also considered durable and reliable. In the used car market, the Insignia 2.0 CDTI 110 hp represents a relatively affordable entry point into the Insignia range. Its fuel efficiency and practicality continue to make it a popular choice for budget-conscious buyers seeking a comfortable and spacious sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the DPF and ensure the vehicle has been properly serviced throughout its life.
