The Opel Insignia Sedan (A) 2.0 CDTI, producing 160 horsepower, was a key variant in the first generation of the Insignia, launched in November 2008 and remaining in production until 2013. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Insignia lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance for European drivers. The Insignia itself represented a significant departure for Opel, moving towards a more modern and sophisticated design language, and competing directly with established players like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. This particular 2.0 CDTI model was a popular choice, offering a diesel engine known for its torque and economy, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sedan (A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (160 Hp) DPF |
| Start of production | November, 2008 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 218 km/h (135.46 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 99.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTH |
| 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 | 18:1 |
| 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.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 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; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17; 18 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia 2.0 CDTI was the A20DTH engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was part of Opel’s family of common-rail direct injection diesels, known for their efficiency and refinement. The A20DTH featured a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output to 160 horsepower and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque. The common-rail direct injection system, supplied by Bosch, allowed for precise fuel delivery and optimized combustion, contributing to both performance and reduced emissions. The engine utilized an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The six-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned to maximize the engine’s torque, providing strong acceleration in everyday driving situations.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp 2.0 CDTI with the six-speed manual transmission offered a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not a sports car, the engine’s ample torque meant that overtaking maneuvers were executed with ease. The manual gearbox allowed for greater driver engagement compared to the automatic options available on other Insignia trims. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 9.5 seconds, which was competitive for its class. The long gearing, typical of diesel engines, prioritized fuel economy at cruising speeds. Compared to the more powerful 2.8L V6 Turbo petrol version, the 2.0 CDTI was noticeably slower in outright acceleration, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. Against the lower-powered 1.6L petrol variants, the 2.0 CDTI provided a more refined and effortless driving experience, particularly on longer journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia 2.0 CDTI typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Sport’ or ‘Cosmo’ variants, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a navigation system, a panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sedan (A) featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The 2.0 CDTI variant, due to its weight, benefited from the well-tuned suspension setup. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, equipped with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) as standard. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering was power-assisted, providing a light and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel-efficient engine. The diesel engine was particularly appreciated for its torque and refinement. However, some critics noted that the styling was somewhat conservative compared to some of its rivals. In terms of fuel economy, the 2.0 CDTI consistently outperformed the petrol-powered Insignia variants. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common concern with modern diesel engines. Compared to the Volkswagen Passat, the Insignia offered a similar level of practicality and refinement at a slightly lower price point.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI remains a popular choice in the used car market. The A20DTH engine, when properly maintained, is known for its durability and longevity. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced. The Insignia’s spacious interior and comfortable ride continue to appeal to buyers looking for a practical and reliable family sedan. The first-generation Insignia played a crucial role in revitalizing Opel’s image, establishing it as a competitor in the mainstream family car segment.
