The Opel Insignia Sedan (A, facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) Ecotec Automatic represents a mid-cycle refresh of Opel’s flagship D-segment sedan. Introduced in 2013 and continuing through June 2015, this variant aimed to balance performance, fuel efficiency, and comfort within the Insignia lineup. Positioned as a higher-trim level, it offered a step up from the base engine options while remaining more accessible than the range-topping models. The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the original Insignia, launched in 2008, solidifying its presence in the competitive European market. It was built on the GM Delta II platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sedan (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (195 Hp) Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 7.9 l/100 km (29.8 US mpg, 35.8 UK mpg, 12.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.8 l/100 km (40.6 US mpg, 48.7 UK mpg, 17.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 154 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 230 km/h (142.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 195 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 99.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTR |
| 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.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| 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) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1015 l (35.84 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4842 mm (190.63 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm (82.05 in.) |
| Height | 1498 mm (58.98 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2737 mm (107.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1590 mm (62.6 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 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, automatic transmission |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia Sedan, particularly the 2.0 CDTI (195 hp) Ecotec Automatic variant introduced with the 2013 facelift, represented Opel’s attempt to deliver a refined and capable mid-size sedan. This model year saw updates to the exterior styling, interior materials, and technology, aiming to enhance the Insignia’s appeal in a segment dominated by rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. The 2.0 CDTI with 195 horsepower and an automatic transmission was positioned as a sweet spot in the range, offering a good balance of performance and fuel economy for drivers prioritizing comfort and ease of use. It was a key offering in European markets, where diesel engines and automatic transmissions were increasingly popular.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Insignia variant lies the A20DTR engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel/Fiat’s family of common-rail direct injection diesel engines. The A20DTR utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output to 195 hp (145 kW) at 4000 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The common-rail direct injection system, supplied by Bosch, delivers fuel directly into the cylinders at extremely high pressure, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a timing chain for durability. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and convenient gear changes. This transmission isn’t known for being particularly sporty, prioritizing comfort and fuel efficiency over rapid shifts.
Driving Characteristics
The 195 hp 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 8.4 seconds, and it reaches a top speed of 143 mph. While not a sports sedan, the engine provides sufficient power for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat hesitant at times, particularly when downshifting. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the same engine, the automatic sacrifices some responsiveness. The higher-output 2.0 BiTurbo diesel (200 hp) offered significantly more performance, but at a higher price point. The lower-powered 1.6 CDTI variants were more fuel-efficient but lacked the punch of the 2.0-liter engine. The gear ratios are tuned for relaxed cruising, making it a good choice for long-distance journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia typically came well-equipped, reflecting its position as a mid-to-high trim level. Standard features often included dual-zone climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, alloy wheels, and cruise control. Higher trim levels added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a premium sound system, and advanced safety technologies such as lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and parking assist. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on lower trims, upgrading to leather on higher specification models. The dashboard layout was generally functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sedan’s chassis is comprised of a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The 2.0 CDTI Automatic variant typically featured front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, although some higher trim levels were equipped with rear disc brakes. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system, providing reasonably precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI 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 and that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.6 CDTI, the 2.0 CDTI offered noticeably more power and refinement. Against competitors like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the Insignia offered a compelling value proposition, often undercutting them on price while providing a similar level of equipment. Fuel economy was competitive, averaging around 40.6 US mpg in combined driving.
Legacy
The A20DTR 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 issues. The six-speed automatic transmission is also relatively robust, but fluid changes should be performed according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Today, used examples of the 2013-2015 Insignia 2.0 CDTI Automatic can be found at reasonable prices, making them an attractive option for buyers seeking a comfortable and fuel-efficient mid-size sedan. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with diesel engines and automatic transmissions, and a thorough inspection is recommended before purchase.
