Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo ecoTEC (195 Hp) 4×4 Automatic

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer: A Rugged European All-Rounder

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer represents a specialized, more adventurous iteration of Vauxhall’s popular mid-size family car, the Insignia. Introduced in 2013 and produced until 2017, this first-generation Country Tourer was specifically designed to cater to the European market’s demand for vehicles that combine the practicality of a station wagon with the enhanced capability and rugged aesthetics of an off-road-inspired crossover. As a product of General Motors’ European arm, primarily Opel in continental Europe and Vauxhall in the United Kingdom, the Insignia was a key player in the D-segment, offering a compelling package of comfort, technology, and versatility. This particular variant, the 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo ecoTEC (195 Hp) 4×4 Automatic, stood out with its powerful diesel engine, intelligent all-wheel-drive system, and automatic transmission, positioning it as a robust and efficient choice for families and individuals seeking a vehicle capable of tackling diverse driving conditions beyond paved roads.

Engine and Performance: The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer‘s Powerhouse

At the heart of the Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo ecoTEC lies a sophisticated 2.0-liter (119.36 cubic inches) inline four-cylinder diesel engine, designated A20DTR. This powerplant is a testament to modern diesel engineering, featuring a BiTurbo setup that employs two turbochargers working in sequence to deliver a broad and responsive powerband. This configuration ensures excellent low-end torque for effortless acceleration and strong mid-range pull for highway cruising.

The engine produces a robust 195 horsepower at 4000 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter output of 99.7 Hp/l, which is impressive for a diesel unit of its era. More significantly, the engine generates a substantial 295.02 lb.-ft. (400 Nm) of torque, available across a wide and accessible range from 1750 to 2500 rpm. This ample torque is crucial for the Country Tourer’s character, providing strong acceleration even when fully loaded or towing.

Power is channeled through a smooth-shifting 6-speed automatic transmission to an intelligent all-wheel-drive (4×4) system. This drivetrain architecture provides enhanced traction and stability, particularly beneficial in adverse weather conditions or on unpaved surfaces. Performance figures reflect the vehicle’s blend of power and practicality: it accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in a respectable 9.4 seconds (0-100 km/h in 9.9 seconds) and can reach a top speed of 129.87 mph (209 km/h).

Despite its performance capabilities, the 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo ecoTEC engine also emphasizes efficiency, as indicated by its “ecoTEC” designation. It achieves a combined fuel economy of 35.6 US mpg (6.6 l/100 km), with urban consumption at 26.4 US mpg (8.9 l/100 km) and extra-urban at 44.4 US mpg (5.3 l/100 km). This efficiency is complemented by a Euro 5 emission standard compliance, with CO2 emissions rated at 174 g/km, thanks in part to its common rail fuel injection system and particulate filter. The engine’s DOHC valvetrain, 4 valves per cylinder, and intercooler further contribute to its refined operation and performance.

Design and Features: Form Meets Function in the Country Tourer

The Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer distinguishes itself from its standard Sports Tourer sibling through a series of aesthetic and functional enhancements designed to project a more rugged and adventurous image. Its station wagon (estate) body type, with five doors and seating for five occupants, provides immense practicality. However, the Country Tourer adds protective body cladding around the wheel arches, side sills, and lower bumpers, along with front and rear skid plates, to guard against minor scrapes and give it a more assertive stance. The increased ride height, compared to the standard Insignia, not only enhances its visual appeal but also improves ground clearance, making it more capable on uneven terrain.

With a length of 193.7 inches, a width of 73.07 inches (82.05 inches including mirrors), and a height of 59.96 inches, the Country Tourer commands a significant road presence. Its wheelbase of 107.76 inches contributes to a stable ride and generous interior space. Practicality is a strong suit, with a minimum trunk (boot) space of 19.07 cubic feet (540 liters) that expands to a cavernous 54.03 cubic feet (1530 liters) with the rear seats folded down. This ample cargo volume makes it ideal for hauling luggage, sports equipment, or supplies for outdoor adventures.

Underneath, the Country Tourer features a robust suspension setup designed to handle varied road conditions. It employs an independent McPherson strut system with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, paired with an independent multi-link suspension at the rear. This combination provides a comfortable ride on pavement while maintaining composure on rougher surfaces. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, augmented by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) for assured stopping power. The minimum turning circle of 37.4 feet (11.4 meters) is reasonable for a vehicle of its size, aiding maneuverability in urban environments.

Technical Specifications

Legacy and Market Impact

The Vauxhall Insignia, and by extension the Vauxhall Insignia I Country Tourer, played a significant role in Vauxhall’s product lineup during its production years. In the European market, where station wagons have historically held strong appeal, the Country Tourer carved out a niche for itself as a more rugged alternative to traditional family haulers. It directly competed with established players in the “all-road” or “all-track” segment, such as the Audi A4 Allroad, Volkswagen Passat Alltrack, and Skoda Octavia Scout. While perhaps not carrying the same premium badge cachet as its German rivals, the Insignia Country Tourer offered a compelling value proposition, delivering similar levels of practicality, all-wheel-drive capability, and a distinctive aesthetic at a more accessible price point.

Its legacy is rooted in its ability to blend the best attributes of a spacious station wagon with the added versatility and confidence of an all-wheel-drive system and increased ground clearance. This made it particularly appealing to families living in rural areas, those who frequently engaged in outdoor activities, or simply drivers who desired extra traction and a more robust appearance without fully committing to a larger, less fuel-efficient SUV. The 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo ecoTEC engine further enhanced its market appeal, providing a powerful yet economical diesel option that was highly valued in Europe.

The Insignia I Country Tourer contributed to the broader automotive trend of blurring the lines between traditional body styles, anticipating the eventual rise in popularity of crossover vehicles. It demonstrated that a family-friendly station wagon could also be stylish, capable, and adventure-ready. While Vauxhall (and Opel) have since moved on to newer generations of the Insignia, the first-generation Country Tourer remains a testament to a well-executed concept, offering a practical, comfortable, and surprisingly capable vehicle for its segment. Its combination of strong diesel performance, all-weather capability, and generous cargo space ensures its enduring relevance in the used car market for those seeking a versatile and efficient European all-rounder.