The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer, specifically the 2.0 CDTI (163 hp) Ecotec Automatic variant, was produced from July 2013 to June 2015 as part of the A generation’s facelift. This model represented a key offering within Opel’s lineup, aiming to provide a practical and efficient station wagon option for European families and business users. Positioned as a mid-range trim, it bridged the gap between the more economical base models and the higher-performance versions. The Insignia Sports Tourer competed directly with rivals like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, and Peugeot 508 SW.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (163 Hp) Ecotec Automatic |
| 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) | 8.1 l/100 km (29 US mpg, 34.9 UK mpg, 12.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.9 l/100 km (39.9 US mpg, 47.9 UK mpg, 16.9 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 155 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| 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.) |
| 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 | Automatic 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 A20DTH 2.0-liter four-cylinder diesel engine. This engine is a member of Opel’s Ecotec family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. The A20DTH utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 4,000 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque band provides good responsiveness for everyday driving. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle. Paired with the engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, designed to provide smooth gear changes and contribute to fuel efficiency. This transmission isn’t known for particularly sporty shifts, prioritizing comfort and ease of use.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.6 seconds, which is adequate for most driving situations but doesn’t offer particularly brisk performance. The automatic transmission, while smooth, can feel somewhat hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. The focus is on providing a relaxed and efficient cruise. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 BiTurbo or the petrol-powered versions, this variant lacks the outright punch, but it compensates with significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as high as it could, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, electric windows, a CD/radio system with auxiliary input, alloy wheels, and basic safety equipment like ABS and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, available as options, added features like leather upholstery, a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, parking sensors, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, though not overly luxurious.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sports Tourer’s chassis is designed to balance comfort and handling. The front suspension utilizes MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a good level of ride comfort while maintaining reasonable body control. The front brakes are ventilated discs, providing adequate stopping power. Rear brakes were typically solid discs on higher trims, but many base models featured drum brakes. The steering is electrically assisted, offering a light and easy feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and efficient family car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and good fuel economy. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times and that the engine lacked the excitement of more powerful alternatives. Compared to the 1.6 CDTI models, the 2.0 CDTI offered a noticeable performance improvement, while still maintaining competitive fuel economy. Against rivals like the Ford Mondeo Estate, the Insignia offered a more stylish design and a slightly more refined interior.
Legacy
The A20DTH engine, when properly maintained, has proven to be a relatively reliable unit. Common issues include diesel particulate filter (DPF) clogging, particularly on vehicles used primarily for short journeys, and occasional problems with the turbocharger. The six-speed automatic transmission is generally robust, but regular fluid changes are essential to prevent issues. Today, the 2.0 CDTI Automatic Insignia Sports Tourer represents a good value proposition on the used car market, offering a spacious and practical estate car at an affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a sensible family vehicle.
