The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) GSi 2.0 BiTurbo, produced from September 2017 to April 2019, represents a performance-oriented variant of Opel’s flagship station wagon. Positioned as a near-premium offering, the GSi aimed to blend practicality with engaging driving dynamics. This specific configuration, featuring a 2.0-liter twin-turbo diesel engine producing 210 horsepower and paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive, occupied the upper echelon of the Insignia Sports Tourer lineup, serving as a competitor to vehicles like the Volkswagen Passat GT and Ford Mondeo ST. It was part of the B generation of the Insignia, built on the GM Epsilon II platform, also known as the 1HX0/A3 platform.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (B) |
| Type | GSi 2.0 BiTurbo (210 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | September, 2017 |
| End of production | April, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.9 l/100 km (26.4 US mpg, 31.7 UK mpg, 11.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg, 38.7 UK mpg, 13.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 192 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 231 km/h (143.54 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.2 kg/Hp, 121.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 3.6 kg/Nm, 277.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 210 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 107.4 Hp/l |
| Torque | 480 Nm @ 1500 rpm (354.03 lb.-ft. @ 1500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B20DTR |
| 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.) |
| Compression ratio | 16.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | BiTurbo, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.9 l (5.18 US qt | 4.31 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.9 l (6.23 US qt | 5.19 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1732 kg (3818.41 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2370 kg (5224.96 lbs.) |
| Max load | 638 kg (1406.55 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 560 l (19.78 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1665 l (58.8 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 62 l (16.38 US gal | 13.64 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 90 kg (198.42 lbs.) |
| Length | 4998 mm (196.77 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 | 1490 mm (58.66 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2829 mm (111.38 in.) |
| Front track | 1607 mm (63.27 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1610 mm (63.39 in.) |
| Front overhang | 1000 mm (39.37 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1169 mm (46.02 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.74 m (38.52 ft.) |
| Drive wheel | All wheel drive (4×4) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Insignia GSi 2.0 BiTurbo is the B20DTR engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes a sophisticated twin-turbocharger setup, employing a low-inertia turbocharger for immediate response and a larger turbocharger for peak power. The common-rail direct injection system, operating at a high pressure of 1650 bar, ensures efficient fuel atomization and combustion. The engine boasts a relatively high compression ratio of 16.5:1, contributing to its thermal efficiency. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, provides smooth and relatively quick gear changes. It’s programmed for both comfort and performance, adapting to driving style. The all-wheel-drive system, featuring a multi-plate clutch, dynamically distributes torque between the front and rear axles, enhancing traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 210 horsepower and 480 Nm (354 lb-ft) of torque delivered by the B20DTR engine provide brisk acceleration. The 0-60 mph sprint takes approximately 7.5 seconds, and the car reaches a top speed of 143.54 mph. While not a sports car in the purest sense, the GSi offers a noticeably more engaging driving experience than lower-powered Insignia variants. The automatic transmission is well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, providing seamless shifts during normal driving and responsive downshifts when pushed. The all-wheel-drive system inspires confidence, providing excellent grip in various conditions. Compared to the 1.6-liter diesel models, the GSi offers significantly more power and torque, resulting in a more effortless driving experience, especially when fully loaded or towing. However, it doesn’t quite match the outright performance of the petrol-powered Insignia OPC (Vauxhall version), which offered a more raw and aggressive driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GSi trim level came generously equipped. Standard features included sports seats upholstered in Morrocana (a synthetic leather), aluminum pedals, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a touchscreen infotainment system with navigation. Exterior styling cues included a unique front grille, rear spoiler, and side skirts. Optional extras included adaptive dampers (FlexRide chassis), a panoramic sunroof, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist. The interior generally featured a dark color scheme with contrasting stitching, emphasizing the sporty character of the GSi.
Chassis & Braking
The Insignia GSi featured a sport-tuned suspension, with stiffer springs and dampers compared to standard Insignia models. The front suspension utilized MacPherson struts, while the rear employed a multi-link setup. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted on all four wheels, providing ample stopping power. The GSi also benefited from a slightly larger stabilizer bar compared to other trims, further reducing body roll during cornering. The electric power steering offered a reasonable level of feedback, although it wasn’t as communicative as a hydraulic system.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia GSi 2.0 BiTurbo was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its strong performance, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the diesel engine, while powerful, lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 32.2 US mpg. Compared to the 1.5-liter diesel and petrol variants, the GSi offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price point. The 2.0-liter petrol model offered similar power but with a different driving character. Reliability reports suggest that the B20DTR engine is generally robust, although the diesel particulate filter (DPF) can be prone to clogging if the vehicle is primarily used for short trips.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (B) GSi 2.0 BiTurbo represents a compelling blend of practicality, performance, and technology. While production was relatively short-lived, the model has established a following among enthusiasts seeking a capable and comfortable station wagon. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with low mileage and a full service history. The B20DTR engine, when properly maintained, is known for its longevity. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for DPF issues and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced according to Opel’s recommendations. The GSi variant remains a desirable option for those seeking a refined and capable family vehicle with a sporty edge.
