The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) 1.6d (136 hp) Automatic, produced between April 2018 and February 2020, represents a key variant within the second generation of Opel’s flagship D-segment wagon. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with acceptable performance for family and long-distance driving. This model, built on the 1HX0 platform, was primarily marketed in Europe as a practical and comfortable alternative to more performance-focused or premium-trimmed Insignia models. It offered a compelling package for buyers prioritizing economy and space over outright speed.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (B) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6d (136 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2018 |
| End of production | February, 2020 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.6-7.0 l/100 km (35.6 – 33.6 US mpg, 42.8 – 40.4 UK mpg, 15.2 – 14.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.5-4.6 l/100 km (52.3 – 51.1 US mpg, 62.8 – 61.4 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.3-5.5 l/100 km (44.4 – 42.8 US mpg, 53.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 18.9 – 18.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 139-145 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 202 km/h (125.52 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11 kg/Hp, 91.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.5 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D16DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.1 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6 l (6.34 US qt | 5.28 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1492 kg (3289.3 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2160 kg (4761.98 lbs.) |
| Max load | 668 kg (1472.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1660 l (58.62 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| AdBlue tank | 15 l (3.96 US gal | 3.3 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1300 kg (2866.01 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4986 mm (196.3 in.) |
| Width | 1863 mm (73.35 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1941 mm (76.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2093 mm (82.4 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2829 mm (111.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 990 mm (38.98 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1167 mm (45.94 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.74 m (38.52 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 |
| Front brakes | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16; 215/55 R17; 225/55 R17; 245/45 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 17; 8.5J x 18 |
INTRODUCTION
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) 1.6d Automatic, launched in 2018, is a front-wheel-drive station wagon belonging to the second generation of the Insignia model line. This variant was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient vehicle for both daily commuting and longer journeys. The ‘B’ designation refers to the second generation of the Insignia, which brought significant improvements in weight reduction, aerodynamics, and interior refinement compared to its predecessor. The 1.6-liter diesel engine paired with an automatic transmission offered a balance between performance and economy, making it a popular choice in European markets.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Insignia Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic lies the D16DTH engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel’s ‘Whisper Diesel’ family, known for its relatively quiet operation and efficiency. It utilizes a common-rail direct fuel injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine benefits from a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and improving torque delivery. The engine produces 136 horsepower at 3500-4000 rpm and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque between 2000-2250 rpm. The engine also incorporates a diesel particulate filter (DPF) to meet stringent Euro 6d-Temp emission standards. The automatic transmission is a six-speed unit, providing smooth gear changes and contributing to the vehicle’s overall refinement. While not a dual-clutch transmission, it’s tuned for comfortable cruising and efficient operation.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6d Automatic variant delivers a comfortable, rather than sporty, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 11.2 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but noticeably slower than the more powerful petrol or diesel options available in the Insignia range. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s torque curve, providing sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers on the highway. Gear ratios are optimized for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev excessively at cruising speeds. Compared to the manual transmission versions of the 1.6d, the automatic offers greater convenience, particularly in urban traffic. However, it does slightly diminish fuel economy and responsiveness. The steering is light and precise, making the car easy to maneuver, while the suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Insignia Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic typically came equipped with a respectable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, cruise control, and front and rear electric windows. Safety features such as ABS, electronic stability control, and multiple airbags were also standard. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Design’ or ‘Elegance’, added features like leather upholstery, heated front seats, a larger touchscreen display, and advanced driver-assistance systems like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, adaptive cruise control, and a premium sound system.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia Sports Tourer features a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The chassis was designed to minimize weight, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and agility. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The suspension setup is tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over aggressive handling. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and comfortable family wagon. It was praised for its spacious interior, generous boot capacity, and fuel-efficient engine. However, some reviewers noted that the 1.6-liter diesel engine lacked the punch of the larger 2.0-liter diesel or petrol options. Compared to the 2.0-liter diesel variants, the 1.6d offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. Against competitors like the Ford Mondeo Estate and Volkswagen Passat Variant, the Insignia offered a competitive package in terms of price, space, and equipment. Its fuel economy was comparable to other diesel-powered wagons in its class.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 1.6d Automatic has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle in the used car market. The D16DTH engine, while requiring regular maintenance (including DPF regeneration), is generally robust. The automatic transmission has also demonstrated good durability. Common issues reported by owners include occasional problems with the infotainment system and wear and tear on suspension components. Today, these vehicles represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and fuel-efficient station wagon at an affordable price. The Insignia Sports Tourer, in general, helped solidify Opel’s reputation for building practical and well-equipped family cars.
