The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer GSi 2.0 Turbo, produced from June 2017 to June 2018, represented the performance-oriented variant of Opel’s flagship station wagon. Part of the second-generation Insignia (B) range, built on the GM Epsilon II platform, the GSi aimed to blend practicality with engaging driving dynamics. This specific configuration – the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive – positioned itself as the top-tier performance option within the Sports Tourer lineup, appealing to buyers seeking a sporty yet versatile vehicle. The Insignia, in general, was Opel’s attempt to move upmarket and compete with established players like the Ford Mondeo and Volkswagen Passat, offering a more premium experience and a wider range of technology.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Insignia |
| Generation | Insignia Sports Tourer (B) |
| Type | GSi 2.0 Turbo (260 Hp) AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | June, 2017 |
| End of production | June, 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.5 l/100 km (20.5 US mpg, 24.6 UK mpg, 8.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.1 l/100 km (33.1 US mpg, 39.8 UK mpg, 14.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 199 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 7.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 245 km/h (152.24 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.3 kg/Hp, 158.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.1 kg/Nm, 243.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 260 Hp @ 5300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 130.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 400 Nm @ 2500-4000 rpm (295.02 lb.-ft. @ 2500-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B20NFT |
| Engine displacement | 1998 cm3 (121.93 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1641 kg (3617.79 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2275 kg (5015.52 lbs.) |
| Max load | 634 kg (1397.73 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%) | 2200 kg (4850.17 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 and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Ventilated discs |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Insignia GSi was the B20NFT, a 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was a member of Opel’s family of direct-injection engines, utilizing a multi-point direct injection system for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion efficiency. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, boosted power output to 260 horsepower at 5300 rpm and 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque available from 2500 to 4000 rpm. The engine featured a variable valve timing system to optimize performance across the rev range. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Aisin, was specifically tuned for the GSi to provide quicker shifts and a more responsive driving experience. The all-wheel-drive system, utilizing a multi-plate clutch, dynamically distributed torque between the front and rear axles for enhanced traction and stability, particularly in adverse weather conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.0 Turbo AWD Automatic combination delivered a noticeably more spirited driving experience compared to lower-powered Insignia variants. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 7.1 seconds, and the car felt confident at highway speeds. The eight-speed automatic transmission generally shifted smoothly, although some drivers noted a slight hesitation during kickdown maneuvers. The all-wheel-drive system provided excellent grip, inspiring confidence in corners and during acceleration. While not a dedicated sports car, the GSi offered a good balance between performance and comfort, making it a capable and enjoyable daily driver. Compared to the manual transmission versions, the automatic offered convenience, but some purists felt it slightly dulled the driving experience.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The GSi trim level came generously equipped as standard. Interior features included sport seats upholstered in Morrocana (a synthetic leather), aluminum pedals, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Infotainment was handled by Opel’s IntelliLink system with a touchscreen display, offering navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto compatibility. Standard safety features included automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, premium audio system, and heated front seats. The GSi also featured unique exterior styling cues, such as a more aggressive front fascia, rear spoiler, and distinctive alloy wheels.
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 steering was an electric power-assisted rack and pinion system, offering a reasonably direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Insignia GSi 2.0 Turbo AWD Automatic 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 styling, while improved over previous generations, wasn’t particularly striking. Compared to rivals like the Ford Mondeo ST and Volkswagen Passat GT, the Insignia GSi offered a competitive level of performance and equipment at a similar price point. Fuel economy, at around 27 mpg combined, was respectable but not class-leading. Reliability reports were generally positive, although some owners reported minor issues with the infotainment system.
Legacy
The Opel Insignia GSi 2.0 Turbo AWD Automatic represents a solid offering from Opel’s second-generation Insignia range. The B20NFT engine, while not without its quirks, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. On the used car market, these models hold their value reasonably well, particularly those with lower mileage and a full service history. The combination of performance, practicality, and available technology continues to appeal to buyers seeking a versatile and engaging station wagon. While Opel has since been acquired by Stellantis, the Insignia GSi remains a noteworthy example of Opel’s attempt to establish itself as a more premium and dynamic automotive brand.
