The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer OPC 2.8 V6, produced from September 2013 to January 2017, represented the high-performance variant of Opel’s flagship wagon. Positioned as the top-tier trim level within the facelifted ‘A’ generation Insignia range, it aimed to deliver a blend of practicality, space, and genuine performance. This model was primarily marketed in Europe, offering a compelling alternative to more established premium brands. The “OPC” designation (Opel Performance Center) signified a focus on enhanced driving dynamics and a more powerful engine compared to the standard Insignia Sports Tourer models.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (A, facelift 2013) |
| Type (Engine) | OPC 2.8 V6 (325 Hp) AWD Turbo Ecotec Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2013 |
| End of production | January, 2017 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 16.7 l/100 km (14.1 US mpg, 16.9 UK mpg, 6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 7.8 l/100 km (30.2 US mpg, 36.2 UK mpg, 12.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 11 l/100 km (21.4 US mpg, 25.7 UK mpg, 9.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 259 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 5.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 250 km/h (155.34 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 5.8 kg/Hp, 173.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.3 kg/Nm, 231.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 325 Hp @ 5250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 116.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 435 Nm @ 5250 rpm (320.84 lb.-ft. @ 5250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A28NER, B28NER |
| Engine displacement | 2792 cm3 (170.38 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 89 mm (3.5 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 74.8 mm (2.94 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.3 l (6.66 US qt | 5.54 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.7 l (7.08 US qt | 5.9 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1878 kg (4140.28 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2490 kg (5489.51 lbs.) |
| Max load | 612 kg (1349.23 lbs.) |
| 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) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg (3527.4 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Length | 4908 mm (193.23 in.) |
| Width | 1858 mm (73.15 in.) |
| Height | 1520 mm (59.84 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2737 mm (107.76 in.) |
| Front track | 1585 mm (62.4 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1587 mm (62.48 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 the Insignia OPC was the 2.8-liter V6 engine, specifically the A28NER or B28NER engine code depending on the exact production date. This engine featured a 60-degree V-angle and utilized a twin-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power output to 325 horsepower and 435 Nm (320.84 lb-ft) of torque. The engine employed multi-port fuel injection and benefited from direct injection technology for improved efficiency and responsiveness. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was specifically tuned for the OPC model to provide quicker shifts and better handling of the increased power. This transmission featured a manual shift mode for greater driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The combination of the 325 hp V6 and the all-wheel-drive system resulted in a surprisingly capable performance car. Acceleration from 0 to 62 mph (0-100 km/h) took approximately 6 seconds. While not a dedicated sports car, the Insignia OPC offered a strong surge of power throughout the rev range, making it adept at both highway cruising and spirited driving. The automatic transmission, while smooth, wasn’t as engaging as a dual-clutch system, but it provided a comfortable and convenient driving experience. Compared to the lower-powered 1.6L or 2.0L diesel and gasoline variants, the OPC offered a significantly more dynamic driving experience, albeit at the cost of fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The OPC trim level came generously equipped. Standard features included sport seats upholstered in Morrocana (a leatherette material), a flat-bottomed steering wheel, aluminum pedals, and unique OPC badging both inside and out. The infotainment system typically included a touchscreen display with navigation and connectivity options. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and upgraded audio systems. The interior generally featured a dark color scheme with contrasting stitching to emphasize the sporty character of the vehicle.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia OPC featured a specially tuned chassis with stiffer springs and dampers compared to the standard Insignia Sports Tourer. The front suspension utilized the HiPerStrut system, designed to minimize torque steer and improve handling. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs all around, providing ample stopping power. The all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a multi-plate clutch, distributed power between the front and rear axles as needed, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia OPC was generally well-received by automotive critics, who praised its performance, spaciousness, and value for money. It was often compared to more expensive rivals from Audi and BMW. However, some critics noted that the automatic transmission wasn’t as responsive as some competitors, and the fuel economy was relatively high. Compared to the more economical diesel variants of the Insignia, the OPC appealed to a different type of buyer – one prioritizing performance over fuel efficiency. The 2.0L Turbo models offered a compromise, providing more power than the diesels but with better fuel economy than the V6.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 remains a relatively sought-after vehicle in the used car market, particularly among enthusiasts looking for a practical and capable performance wagon. The 2.8L V6 engine, while complex, has proven to be reasonably reliable with proper maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential oil leaks. The automatic transmission is generally durable, but regular fluid changes are essential. The Insignia OPC represents a bold attempt by Opel to compete in the premium performance segment, and it continues to offer a unique blend of practicality, performance, and style.
