Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic

The Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback: A European Mid-Size Contender

The Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic represents a pivotal model in Vauxhall’s lineup, introduced in 2008 as the successor to the long-running Vectra. Positioned in the highly competitive European D-segment (mid-size car category), the Insignia marked a significant shift in design philosophy and market ambition for the British marque, aiming to elevate its brand image with a more premium and sophisticated offering. This first-generation Insignia, produced from 2008 to 2013, was celebrated for its striking “sculptural artistry meets German precision” design language, which garnered widespread acclaim, including the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2009.

While the Vauxhall brand itself is primarily focused on the United Kingdom, its sibling, the Opel Insignia, was sold across continental Europe. The platform and core engineering were also leveraged globally, notably as the Buick Regal in the United States and the Holden Commodore in Australia, showcasing its international relevance despite the Vauxhall badge not being directly available stateside. This article delves into the specifics of the 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic hatchback variant, a popular choice for its blend of performance, efficiency, and practicality in its primary European market.

Powertrain and Performance: The 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic

At the heart of this particular Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback lies a robust and efficient 2.0-liter (119.36 cubic inches) CDTi ecoTEC diesel engine, designated with the internal code A20DT. This inline-four cylinder unit features a DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and a sophisticated common rail direct fuel injection system, augmented by a turbocharger and an intercooler to optimize power delivery and efficiency. The engine is meticulously engineered for the European market’s preference for diesel power, offering a compelling balance of torque and fuel economy.

The powertrain delivers a respectable 130 horsepower at 4000 revolutions per minute, providing ample motivation for daily driving and highway cruising. More significantly for a diesel, it generates a substantial 221.27 pound-feet of torque, available across a broad and usable band from 1750 to 2500 rpm. This strong low-end torque is characteristic of modern diesel engines, contributing to effortless acceleration and relaxed driving dynamics, especially when paired with the smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission. The power is efficiently sent to the front wheels, adhering to a conventional front-wheel-drive architecture.

Performance figures for the Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic highlight its competency in its class. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in approximately 10 seconds, with a top speed reaching 126.76 mph. These figures underscore its role as a comfortable cruiser rather than a performance-oriented machine. The “ecoTEC” designation signifies Vauxhall’s commitment to environmental responsibility and efficiency. This is evident in its combined fuel economy rating of 34.6 US miles per gallon (30.4 US mpg in urban settings and an impressive 44.4 US mpg on the highway), making it an economical choice for long-distance travel. Furthermore, its CO2 emissions of 179 grams per kilometer and compliance with the Euro 5 emissions standard, aided by a standard particulate filter, demonstrate its commitment to cleaner operation for its era.

Design and Ergonomics

The Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback broke away from the more conservative styling of its predecessor, the Vectra, introducing a bold and dynamic aesthetic that defined Vauxhall’s design language for years to come. This particular variant is a practical 5-door hatchback, offering the versatility of a sedan with the added utility of a larger, more accessible cargo area. Its sleek profile is characterized by flowing lines, a distinctive front grille, and swept-back headlights, contributing to an impressive drag coefficient (Cd) of just 0.27, which aids both fuel efficiency and high-speed stability.

Measuring 190.16 inches in length, 73.07 inches in width (82.05 inches including mirrors), and 58.98 inches in height, the Insignia offers a substantial road presence. A generous wheelbase of 107.76 inches contributes to a spacious cabin and a comfortable ride. The interior is designed to accommodate five occupants comfortably, with attention paid to material quality and ergonomic layout. The hatchback body style provides excellent cargo flexibility, boasting a minimum trunk space of 18.36 cubic feet, which expands significantly to 51.67 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, making it highly practical for families and those needing ample luggage capacity.

Underneath its stylish exterior, the Insignia features a well-engineered chassis. The front suspension employs an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, providing responsive handling and good ride comfort. At the rear, an independent multi-link suspension further enhances stability and passenger comfort. Braking power is supplied by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for enhanced safety. Hydraulic power steering ensures a direct and communicative feel to the driver, while 215/60 R16 tires on 16-inch wheels provide a balanced grip and ride quality. The minimum turning circle of 35.73 feet indicates good maneuverability for a vehicle of its size.

Technical Specifications of the Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic

Market Positioning and Legacy

The Vauxhall Insignia I Hatchback was a crucial model for Vauxhall, tasked with revitalizing its image and competing fiercely in a segment dominated by established players like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Renault Laguna. Its bold design, which contrasted sharply with the more utilitarian aesthetics of some rivals, was a key selling point, attracting buyers looking for a blend of style and practicality.

In its primary markets, particularly the UK, the Insignia quickly gained traction, especially among fleet buyers who valued its strong diesel engines for their fuel efficiency and range, coupled with competitive pricing and a comprehensive list of standard features. The 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Automatic variant, in particular, was a popular choice, offering a comfortable and refined driving experience with the added convenience of an automatic transmission and the economic benefits of a diesel powertrain. Its Euro 5 emissions compliance and decent fuel economy made it an attractive option for both private and corporate users conscious of running costs and environmental impact.

The Insignia’s legacy extends beyond its sales success. It set a new benchmark for Vauxhall in terms of perceived quality, interior design, and technological integration, paving the way for future models to adopt a more premium stance. While it faced stiff competition, its combination of striking looks, a spacious and practical interior, and efficient powertrains ensured its position as a significant and respected contender in the European mid-size segment. The first-generation Insignia successfully moved Vauxhall away from the “repmobile” image associated with the Vectra, establishing a more aspirational brand identity that resonated with a broader audience seeking a stylish yet sensible family car or executive cruiser.