Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp)

The Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) represents a significant entry in the European D-segment (mid-size car) market, serving as Vauxhall’s flagship sedan in the United Kingdom. Launched in 2008, this generation of the Insignia, known internally as the Insignia A, replaced the long-standing Vectra nameplate. As a rebadged version of the Opel Insignia, the Vauxhall model played a crucial role in the UK market, offering a blend of sophisticated design, practical utility, and efficient diesel performance. The 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC variant, specifically, was engineered to appeal to both private buyers and fleet operators seeking a balance of power and impressive fuel economy, a hallmark of its “ecoTEC” designation.

The First Generation Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp)

The Insignia I Saloon marked a departure from its predecessor with a more upscale design language, aiming to elevate Vauxhall’s presence in a highly competitive segment dominated by established German rivals. Its sleek, coupe-like silhouette and premium interior materials were designed to project a more executive image. The model was well-received upon its debut, earning the prestigious European Car of the Year award in 2009, a testament to its comprehensive improvements in design, technology, and driving dynamics.

Engine & Performance

Under the hood, the Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) featured a robust 2.0-liter (1956 cm³) inline-four diesel engine, designated A20DT. This powerplant was engineered with a common-rail fuel injection system and a turbocharger with an intercooler, delivering a respectable 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm. Torque output was a substantial 221.27 lb-ft (300 Nm), available across a broad rev range from 1750 to 2500 rpm, which contributed to its strong mid-range acceleration and flexible driving characteristics.

Paired with a 6-speed manual transmission, the front-wheel-drive Insignia was capable of accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a brisk 9.9 seconds, with a top speed of 126.76 mph (204 km/h). The “ecoTEC” branding underscored its commitment to efficiency. The engine met Euro 5 emission standards, emitting 154 g/km of CO2, and was equipped with a particulate filter to reduce harmful emissions. Fuel economy figures were particularly impressive for a vehicle of its size: an estimated 40.6 US mpg (5.8 l/100 km) combined, climbing to an excellent 49 US mpg (4.8 l/100 km) on the extra-urban cycle. This efficiency made the 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC a popular choice for long-distance commuters and company car fleets across Europe.

Design & Features

The Insignia I Saloon adopted a classic four-door sedan body type, accommodating five occupants comfortably. Its exterior design was characterized by flowing lines, a prominent grille, and distinctive headlamps, giving it a modern and assertive stance. With a length of 190.16 inches (4830 mm) and a width of 73.07 inches (1856 mm), it presented a substantial road presence. The drag coefficient of 0.27 was commendable for its segment, contributing to both its aerodynamic efficiency and reduced wind noise at higher speeds.

Inside, the cabin focused on ergonomics and comfort. While specific interior features varied by trim level, the Insignia generally offered a well-appointed environment. Safety features were a priority, including an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard, enhancing driver control during emergency braking situations. The suspension system featured an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar at the front, complemented by an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a balanced ride quality that blended comfort with responsive handling. Stopping power was provided by ventilated disc brakes at the front and disc brakes at the rear. The vehicle rode on 215/60 R16 tires with 16-inch wheel rims, providing a good balance between ride comfort and road grip. Hydraulic power steering ensured precise and communicative control.

Technical Specifications

Legacy & Market Impact

The Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon, including the 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (130 Hp) variant, carved out a significant niche in the European and UK automotive landscape. It successfully shed the somewhat utilitarian image of its Vectra predecessor, presenting a more sophisticated and aspirational offering. Its primary competitors in the D-segment included popular models like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and to some extent, entry-level premium sedans such as the BMW 3 Series, Audi A4, and Mercedes-Benz C-Class, against which the Insignia offered a compelling value proposition.

The Insignia’s elegant design, combined with its strong emphasis on efficiency (especially in its ecoTEC diesel iterations), made it a favorite among company car drivers and families. Its competitive pricing and comprehensive equipment levels further solidified its appeal. The car’s success was vital for Vauxhall, helping to maintain its position as a key player in the UK market. The first generation Insignia’s legacy is defined by its ability to blend stylish aesthetics with practical utility and economical performance, establishing a new benchmark for Vauxhall in the mid-size sedan segment and proving that mainstream brands could offer compelling alternatives to premium marques.