Vauxhall Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift ) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp)

Vauxhall Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift 2013)

The Vauxhall Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift 2013) represents a significant refresh of Vauxhall’s flagship D-segment (mid-size) offering in the United Kingdom and Europe. As a rebadged version of the Opel Insignia, this vehicle was a core model for General Motors’ European operations, succeeding the long-running Vectra. While the Vauxhall brand is exclusive to the UK, the Insignia platform formed the basis for various global models, though this specific iteration and powertrain were not directly offered in the United States. The 2013 facelift brought a host of updates, enhancing its appeal with refined styling, improved interior ergonomics, and—critically for the European market—more efficient powertrains like the 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC diesel engine. This particular variant, with 130 horsepower, was engineered to provide a compelling balance of performance, practicality, and fuel economy, making it a popular choice for both families and corporate fleets across its primary markets.

The Vauxhall Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift 2013) in Detail

The Insignia I Sports Tourer, in its 2013 facelift guise, continued to embody Vauxhall’s commitment to delivering a stylish yet highly functional vehicle. The “Sports Tourer” designation indicates its station wagon body style, a highly practical and favored configuration in Europe for its generous cargo capacity and comfortable ride. The facelift introduced subtle but impactful changes, including redesigned front and rear fascias, updated lighting signatures, and a revised grille, all contributing to a more modern and premium aesthetic. Inside, drivers and passengers benefited from a refreshed dashboard layout, higher-quality materials, and a significantly upgraded infotainment system, reflecting the era’s rapid advancements in in-car technology.

Engine & Performance: The 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) Powertrain

At the heart of the Vauxhall Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift 2013) discussed here is the 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC engine, a 1,956 cubic inch (2.0-liter) inline four-cylinder diesel unit. This engine was a cornerstone of the Insignia’s powertrain lineup, known for its robust torque delivery and impressive fuel efficiency. Utilizing a common rail direct fuel injection system, a turbocharger, and an intercooler, the engine produced a healthy 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm. More significantly for daily driving and hauling, it generated a substantial 221.27 pound-feet of torque available across a broad rev range, from 1750 to 2500 rpm. This low-end torque made the Insignia feel responsive and capable, particularly when loaded with passengers and cargo or when towing.

The “ecoTEC” designation underscored Vauxhall’s focus on environmental performance and economy. This particular 2.0 CDTi engine was designed to comply with Euro 5 emission standards and featured a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions. Mated to a precise 6-speed manual transmission, the front-wheel-drive Insignia achieved a combined fuel economy rating of approximately 50 US miles per gallon (4.7 liters per 100 km), an outstanding figure for a vehicle of its size and capability. Performance figures included an acceleration time from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 11 seconds, with a top speed of 124.27 mph. These numbers demonstrated that while efficiency was a priority, the Insignia 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC still offered ample power for highway cruising and confident overtaking maneuvers.

Design & Features of the Vauxhall Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift 2013)

The Insignia I Sports Tourer’s design was characterized by its sleek, aerodynamic profile, which belied its generous interior volume. Measuring 193.43 inches in length, 73.07 inches in width (82.05 inches including mirrors), and 59.57 inches in height, it commanded a strong road presence. The 107.76-inch wheelbase contributed to a stable ride and a spacious cabin for five occupants. The station wagon body style was the primary draw, offering exceptional versatility. With all seats in place, the trunk provided a substantial 19.07 cubic feet of cargo space, which could expand to a cavernous 54.03 cubic feet with the rear seats folded down, making it ideal for large shopping trips, sports equipment, or family vacations.

Underneath, the Insignia featured a sophisticated chassis designed for comfort and confident handling. The front suspension employed an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear utilized an independent multi-link system. This combination provided a refined ride quality, soaking up road imperfections effectively, while also maintaining composure during spirited driving. Braking performance was handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, complemented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, ensuring strong and stable stopping power. The vehicle rode on 17-inch wheels fitted with 225/55 R17 tires, balancing grip, comfort, and rolling resistance for optimal efficiency. Other key features for the era would have included a comprehensive suite of airbags, electronic stability control (ESC), and possibly advanced driver-assistance systems depending on the trim level, emphasizing its commitment to occupant safety.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact

The Vauxhall Insignia, particularly in its Sports Tourer configuration, carved out a significant niche in the highly competitive European D-segment. The 2013 facelift model, with its 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) engine, was a prime example of a well-rounded offering that appealed to a broad demographic. Its primary competitors included stalwarts like the Ford Mondeo Estate, Volkswagen Passat Variant, Skoda Superb Combi, and Mazda6 Tourer. Against these rivals, the Insignia distinguished itself with its striking design, comfortable ride, and particularly strong value proposition, especially for fleet operators who appreciated its low running costs and robust build quality.

The Insignia’s reputation was built on its blend of practicality, efficiency, and a refined driving experience. The diesel ecoTEC engine was a key factor in its success, offering the kind of fuel economy and torque that European drivers expected for long-distance cruising and family duties. Its spacious interior and substantial cargo capacity solidified its position as a practical family vehicle, while its sophisticated suspension setup ensured a comfortable and composed journey, even on less-than-perfect roads. The car’s strong sales performance throughout its production run, particularly in the UK, underscored its relevance and acceptance in the market.

Historically, the Insignia represented a pivotal moment for Vauxhall/Opel, moving away from the more conservative styling of its Vectra predecessor towards a more expressive and premium aesthetic. The first-generation Insignia, and especially its facelifted versions, helped to elevate the brand’s perception, showcasing its capability to produce vehicles that were not only functional but also desirable. While this specific Vauxhall model never officially made it to American shores, elements of its platform and design language found their way into other GM products globally. The Insignia I Sports Tourer (facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) remains a testament to European automotive engineering, balancing practicality, efficiency, and driving pleasure in a compelling package for its time.