The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer, specifically the 2.0 CDTI (163 hp) Ecotec Start/Stop variant produced from July 2013 to June 2015, represents a significant offering in the European D-segment station wagon market. This model falls within the A generation (facelift) of the Insignia, built on the GM Delta platform (often referred to as the 1HX0/A3 platform). Positioned as a mid-range option within the Insignia lineup, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency, practicality, and reasonable performance for family and business users. The Sports Tourer body style, Opel’s designation for a station wagon, provided increased cargo capacity compared to the hatchback version, making it a popular choice for those needing versatile space.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (163 Hp) Ecotec 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) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 215 km/h (133.59 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 83.3 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.) |
| 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 | 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 |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Insignia Sports Tourer lies the A20DTH engine, a 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel/Vauxhall’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 pressures for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler further enhances performance by forcing more air into the cylinders. The engine produces 163 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This torque band provides good mid-range acceleration, making it suitable for everyday driving and hauling loads. The Start/Stop system, a key feature of this variant, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which was the standard offering for this configuration.
Driving Characteristics
The 163 hp 2.0 CDTI with the six-speed manual transmission delivers a balanced driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.4 seconds, and top speed is rated at 133.59 mph. While not a performance-oriented variant, the engine provides sufficient power for comfortable cruising and overtaking. The manual gearbox allows for greater driver control and engagement compared to an automatic. The gear ratios are well-chosen to maximize fuel efficiency and provide adequate acceleration in most driving situations. Compared to the higher-output 195 hp version of the 2.0 CDTI, this variant feels less urgent, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. It also provides a more relaxed driving experience, making it ideal for long journeys.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI (163 hp) variant typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, alloy wheels, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as SE or Elite, added features like dual-zone climate control, parking sensors, a touchscreen infotainment system, and leather upholstery. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, although leather was available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with clear instrumentation and intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sports Tourer’s chassis is comprised of independent suspension at the front (MacPherson strut) and a semi-independent torsion beam setup at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are typically solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Electric power steering offers a light and precise feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort, but the Insignia still offers a reasonably engaging driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI (163 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and fuel efficiency. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel a bit underpowered when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other D-segment station wagons, such as the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, the Insignia offered a competitive package in terms of price, features, and practicality. The 1.8L petrol version offered less torque but a more responsive feel, while the higher-output 195 hp diesel provided more performance but at the cost of fuel economy.
Legacy
The A20DTH engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including occasional problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the turbocharger. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial to ensure long-term reliability. Today, the Insignia Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI (163 hp) represents a good value proposition in the used car market. It offers a practical and comfortable driving experience at an affordable price. Its fuel efficiency and spacious interior make it a suitable choice for families and those who frequently travel long distances. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance costs associated with the diesel particulate filter and turbocharger.
