The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer, specifically the 2.0 CDTI (120 hp) Ecotec ecoFLEX start/stop variant, was produced from July 2013 to June 2015. This model represents a facelift of the original Insignia A, introduced in 2008, and falls within the broader A-segment of Opel’s lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient option within the Insignia range, it aimed to provide a practical and economical choice for families and drivers prioritizing space and lower running costs. The Sports Tourer body style, Opel’s designation for a station wagon, was a key selling point, offering increased cargo capacity compared to the hatchback version.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (120 Hp) Ecotec ecoFLEX start/stop |
| Start of production | July, 2013 |
| End of production | June, 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.7 l/100 km (50 US mpg, 60.1 UK mpg, 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTE |
| 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.) |
| 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 | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1530 l (54.03 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4913 mm (193.43 in.) |
| Width | 1856 mm (73.07 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm (82.05 in.) |
| Height | 1513 mm (59.57 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 | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Insignia variant is the A20DTE engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel’s Ecotec range, known for its focus on efficiency and reduced emissions. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine produces 120 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The ‘ecoFLEX’ designation indicates the inclusion of fuel-saving technologies, including the start/stop system which automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, reducing idle fuel consumption. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the only transmission option available with this engine configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp 2.0 CDTI with a manual transmission delivers adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.8 seconds, and top speed is limited to 118 mph. The focus is on fuel economy rather than outright speed. The engine provides sufficient torque for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers, but requires downshifting for quicker responses. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, with a relatively long sixth gear to reduce engine speed at highway speeds. Compared to the more powerful 163 hp or 195 hp versions of the 2.0 CDTI, this variant feels noticeably less responsive. However, it offers a more relaxed driving experience and significantly better fuel economy. The manual transmission provides a more engaging driving experience than an automatic would, allowing the driver to maintain control over gear selection and engine speed.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.8L Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system with auxiliary input, and basic safety features like ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as SE or Elite, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and upgraded interior upholstery. The interior generally featured cloth upholstery, with options for leather available on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a focus on ergonomics. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and heated seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. The suspension was tuned to balance comfort and stability, making it suitable for both city driving and long-distance journeys. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and ESP (Electronic Stability Program) are standard features, enhancing safety and control. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The steering is electric power-assisted, providing a light and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 120 hp 2.0 CDTI Insignia Sports Tourer was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical option. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful variants. Compared to the 163 hp version, the 120 hp model offered a noticeable improvement in fuel economy, but at the expense of performance. The 1.9 CDTI models, while offering similar power, were often considered less refined. The Insignia Sports Tourer competed with other mid-size station wagons such as the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Peugeot 508 SW.
Legacy
The A20DTE engine, while not known for being exceptionally robust, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys, and occasional turbocharger failures. The Insignia Sports Tourer, in general, has maintained a decent reputation for reliability, although some electrical issues have been reported. On the used car market, this variant represents a relatively affordable entry point into Insignia ownership, appealing to buyers prioritizing fuel efficiency and practicality. Its continued availability and relatively low running costs make it a viable option for those seeking a spacious and economical family vehicle.
