The Opel Insignia Sedan (A) 2.0 CDTI 160 hp DPF 4×4 Automatic, produced from July 2010 to 2013, represented a significant offering in the mid-size sedan segment, particularly within the European market. Positioned as a more premium and technologically advanced option compared to its predecessor, the Vectra, the Insignia aimed to compete with established rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. This specific variant, combining a 2.0-liter turbocharged diesel engine with an automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, was a mid-range offering within the broader Insignia lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and all-weather capability. It was part of the A generation of the Insignia, built on the GM Delta II platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sedan (A) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (160 Hp) DPF 4×4 Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2010 |
| End of production | 2013 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.4 l/100 km (36.8 US mpg, 44.1 UK mpg, 15.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10 sec (Calculated) |
| Maximum speed | 213 km/h (132.35 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.3 kg/Hp, 97 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 212.1 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 capacity | 9 l (9.51 US qt | 7.92 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1650 kg (3637.63 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2130 kg (4695.85 lbs.) |
| Max load | 480 kg (1058.22 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 track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.8 m (35.43 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic 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 160 hp lies the A20DTH engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of the GM/Fiat family of common rail direct injection diesels. The A20DTH utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The engine employs a sophisticated common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressures for optimized combustion. The valvetrain features an overhead camshaft (OHC) design. The 6-speed automatic transmission, typically an Aisin-sourced unit, was chosen for its smoothness and efficiency. This transmission featured adaptive shift patterns, adjusting to the driver’s style and road conditions. The DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter) was a crucial component for meeting Euro 5 emission standards, trapping soot particles from the exhaust.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp output, coupled with the 350 Nm of torque available from 1750-2500 rpm, provided adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10 seconds, and the top speed was 132 mph. While not a sports car, the Insignia 2.0 CDTI offered a comfortable and relaxed driving experience. The automatic transmission, while smooth, could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 195 hp version of the 2.0 CDTI, this variant felt noticeably less responsive. The all-wheel-drive system provided enhanced traction, particularly in inclement weather, making it a safer and more confident option than front-wheel-drive Insignias. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, prioritizing comfortable cruising over outright acceleration.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia 2.0 CDTI 160 hp Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows, power steering, a CD/radio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as SE or Elite, added features like leather upholstery, heated seats, a navigation system, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth on base models, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia’s chassis was designed to provide a balance of comfort and handling. The front suspension utilized MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a multi-link setup. This configuration helped to absorb bumps and provide a stable ride. The 160 hp variant typically featured ventilated front disc brakes and solid rear discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning was generally softer than that of the higher-powered Insignia models, prioritizing ride comfort over sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI 160 hp Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could be slow to respond at times. Compared to the 195 hp version, this variant offered a more affordable entry point into the Insignia range, but at the expense of performance. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 36.8 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the DPF system, a common problem with modern diesel vehicles.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia, and specifically the 2.0 CDTI 160 hp Automatic variant, has proven to be a relatively reliable and durable vehicle. On the used car market, these models represent a good value proposition, offering a comfortable and well-equipped sedan at an affordable price. The A20DTH engine, while requiring regular maintenance (particularly regarding the DPF), is known for its longevity. The Insignia helped to establish Opel as a serious contender in the mid-size sedan segment, and its blend of style, comfort, and technology continues to appeal to buyers today.
