Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) 4×4 StartStop

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer: A Rugged European Wagon

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) 4×4 Start/Stop represents a distinctive variant within the first generation of Vauxhall’s executive mid-size car, the Insignia. Launched in 2013 and produced until 2017, this particular model was tailored for the European market, particularly the United Kingdom, where Vauxhall serves as the British arm of the German automaker Opel (itself a subsidiary of General Motors during this period). The Country Tourer was conceived to blend the practicality of a traditional station wagon with the rugged aesthetic and enhanced capability of an all-wheel-drive (AWD) crossover, appealing to buyers seeking versatility for diverse driving conditions without fully committing to a larger SUV.

Positioned as a more adventurous and capable alternative to the standard Insignia Sports Tourer (Vauxhall’s term for a station wagon), the Country Tourer featured a raised ride height, protective body cladding, and an intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This specific iteration, equipped with the 2.0-liter CDTi ecoTEC diesel engine, aimed to deliver a compelling balance of performance, fuel efficiency, and traction, making it a popular choice for families and individuals in its primary European markets who valued both utility and a commanding presence on the road.

Engine and Performance of the Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer

At the heart of the Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) 4×4 Start/Stop lies a robust 2.0-liter (1956 cm³ or 119.36 cu. in.) inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated with the internal code A20DTH. This powerplant was engineered for efficiency and strong torque delivery, characteristic of modern European diesels. Utilizing a common rail fuel injection system, a turbocharger, and an intercooler, the engine produced a respectable 163 horsepower at 4000 rpm. Its power per liter stood at 83.3 Hp/l, showcasing a solid output for its displacement.

However, it was the torque figure that truly defined the engine’s drivability. With 350 Nm (258.15 lb.-ft.) available across a broad rev range from 1750 to 2500 rpm, the Insignia Country Tourer offered ample pulling power, crucial for both highway cruising and tackling light off-road terrain or towing. This torque made the vehicle feel responsive and capable, especially when paired with its standard 6-speed manual transmission.

The powertrain architecture featured a front, transverse engine layout, sending power to all four wheels via an intelligent all-wheel-drive system. This 4×4 capability was a key differentiator for the Country Tourer, providing enhanced grip and stability in adverse weather conditions or on unpaved roads. Performance figures included an acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in a reasonable 10.4 seconds, with a top speed of 126.76 mph (204 km/h).

Befitting its “ecoTEC” designation, the engine incorporated a Start/Stop system, which automatically shut off the engine when the vehicle was stationary and restarted it upon clutch engagement or brake release. This technology, combined with a particulate filter, contributed significantly to the vehicle’s fuel efficiency and reduced CO2 emissions. The combined fuel economy was rated at 42 US mpg (5.6 l/100 km), with CO2 emissions of 147 g/km, adhering to the Euro 5 emission standard. This made it a competitive option for environmentally conscious buyers in its segment.

Design and Features

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer distinguishes itself from its standard Insignia siblings through a series of aesthetic and functional enhancements. Its body type is a five-door station wagon (known as an “estate” in European markets), offering a practical and spacious cabin for five occupants. The exterior design was characterized by a more rugged and adventurous persona, achieved through distinct styling cues.

Key design elements included prominent plastic body cladding around the wheel arches and lower sills, adding a protective layer and a visual hint of off-road prowess. Redesigned front and rear bumpers featured integrated skid plates, further emphasizing its robust character. The ride height was notably increased compared to the standard Insignia Sports Tourer, providing better ground clearance for navigating uneven surfaces. Roof rails were standard, enhancing its utility for carrying bicycles, luggage, or other outdoor gear.

Inside, the Insignia Country Tourer maintained the comfortable and well-appointed cabin of the Insignia range. With a length of 193.7 inches (4920 mm) and a wheelbase of 107.76 inches (2737 mm), it offered generous interior space for passengers. The trunk (boot) space was particularly impressive for its class, ranging from a minimum of 19.07 cu. ft. (540 liters) with the rear seats up, expanding to a cavernous 54.03 cu. ft. (1530 liters) when the rear seats were folded down. This flexibility made it highly practical for hauling cargo, luggage, or sports equipment.

In terms of features, the Insignia Country Tourer was equipped with modern amenities for its era. Safety was a priority, incorporating standard ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a suite of airbags. The independent McPherson strut front suspension with a coil spring and anti-roll bar, combined with an independent multi-link rear suspension, ensured a comfortable ride and competent handling, both on paved roads and lighter trails. Braking was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, providing strong stopping power. The vehicle also featured a minimum turning circle of 37.4 feet (11.4 meters), making it reasonably maneuverable despite its length.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact of the Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer carved out a specific niche within the highly competitive European automotive landscape. As a direct competitor to other ruggedized wagons like the Skoda Octavia Scout, Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, and Audi A4/A6 Allroad, it offered a compelling proposition for those seeking a practical family vehicle with enhanced capabilities for light off-road excursions or challenging winter conditions. While not designed for serious rock crawling, its elevated ride height and intelligent all-wheel-drive system provided confidence and security on gravel roads, muddy tracks, or snow-covered asphalt.

In the United Kingdom, where Vauxhall has a strong brand presence, the Insignia Country Tourer was well-received for its blend of style, space, and a feeling of robustness. It offered a more distinctive visual appeal than the standard Insignia station wagon, attracting buyers who might otherwise have considered a conventional SUV but preferred the lower center of gravity and driving dynamics of a car-based platform. Its diesel powertrain, with its strong torque and commendable fuel economy, was particularly suited to European driving habits, including long-distance highway travel.

The “ecoTEC” branding and the inclusion of a Start/Stop system highlighted Vauxhall’s commitment to efficiency and lower emissions, which became increasingly important factors for European consumers and regulatory bodies during its production run. The Euro 5 emission standard compliance reflected its contemporary environmental credentials.

Ultimately, the Insignia I Country Tourer contributed to the broader trend of “crossover wagons” that gained popularity in Europe, bridging the gap between traditional sedans/wagons and full-blown SUVs. While Vauxhall (and Opel) have since transitioned under different ownership (Stellantis), the Insignia Country Tourer remains a testament to the brand’s efforts to diversify its offerings and cater to evolving consumer demands for versatile, capable, and efficient family vehicles in its primary markets. Its robust construction, spacious interior, and all-weather capability solidified its reputation as a practical and reliable choice for the discerning European buyer.