The Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) Automatic: A European Mainstay
The Vauxhall Insignia, a name synonymous with accessible executive-level comfort and practicality in the United Kingdom, represents a significant chapter in the brand’s modern history. The specific model under review, the Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) Automatic, emerged as a refined iteration of the first-generation Insignia. Launched in 2013, this facelifted model aimed to bolster the Insignia’s position in the highly competitive European D-segment (mid-size car category), offering a compelling blend of sophisticated design, efficient diesel powertrain technology, and a comfortable driving experience. While the Vauxhall brand itself is primarily a rebadged Opel for the British market and not sold in the United States, its engineering and market positioning mirror that of its continental European counterpart, the Opel Insignia. This particular variant, a four-door sedan (saloon in UK English), was designed to appeal to both fleet buyers and private consumers seeking a spacious, economical, and well-equipped vehicle with an automatic transmission. Production for this specific configuration ran from 2013 to 2015, marking a crucial period for the model before the introduction of the second generation.
Engine and Performance of the Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013)
At the heart of the Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) Automatic lies a robust and efficient 2.0-liter CDTi ecoTEC diesel engine, identified by the A20DTH engine code. This inline four-cylinder unit, featuring a DOHC (Double Overhead Camshaft) valvetrain and four valves per cylinder, was engineered for a balance of power, refinement, and impressive fuel economy. With a displacement of 119.36 cubic inches (1956 cm³), the engine delivers a respectable 163 horsepower at 4000 rpm, translating to a power-per-liter rating of 83.3 HP/l. More critically for a diesel of its class, it generates a substantial 258.15 lb.-ft. (350 Nm) of torque, available across a broad and usable rev range from 1750 to 2500 rpm. This ample torque, coupled with a six-speed automatic transmission, provides smooth acceleration and effortless highway cruising.
The powertrain architecture is a conventional front-engine, transverse layout, driving the front wheels. Performance figures are competitive for its segment, with the Insignia accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in a calculated 9.1 seconds (9.6 seconds for 0-62 mph or 0-100 km/h). The top speed is rated at 129.87 mph (209 km/h). The “ecoTEC” designation signifies Vauxhall’s commitment to environmental efficiency, and this is evident in the fuel consumption figures. The combined fuel economy is an impressive 44.4 US mpg (5.3 l/100 km), with extra-urban driving yielding up to 56 US mpg (4.2 l/100 km). Urban consumption stands at 32.7 US mpg (7.2 l/100 km). CO2 emissions are rated at 140 g/km, adhering to the Euro 5 emission standard, which was a significant consideration for European markets at the time. The engine also features a particulate filter as standard, further reducing harmful emissions.
Design and Features
The Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) presented a refreshed and more contemporary aesthetic compared to its pre-facelift predecessor. As a four-door sedan, it maintained its commanding presence, characterized by its flowing lines and a sophisticated profile. The facelift brought subtle but effective updates to the front and rear fascias, including revised headlights, a broader grille, and new taillight designs, giving it a more premium and cohesive look. Its dimensions are substantial for a mid-size sedan, with a length of 190.63 inches (4842 mm), a width of 73.07 inches (1856 mm), and a height of 58.98 inches (1498 mm). The generous 107.76-inch (2737 mm) wheelbase contributes significantly to its spacious interior and stable ride.
Inside, the Insignia offers seating for five occupants with a focus on comfort and ergonomics. The cabin of the facelifted model saw notable improvements, particularly in the infotainment system and material quality, aiming to elevate the perceived luxury and user experience. Practicality is a strong suit, with a minimum trunk (boot) space of 17.66 cubic feet (500 liters), expanding to an impressive 35.84 cubic feet (1015 liters) with the rear seats folded, making it suitable for family trips and cargo. The vehicle’s kerb weight is 3556.06 lbs. (1613 kg), and it has a maximum permissible weight of 4750.96 lbs. (2155 kg), allowing for a maximum load of 1194.91 lbs. (542 kg). For towing, it can handle a permitted trailer load with brakes of 3527.4 lbs. (1600 kg) and without brakes of 1653.47 lbs. (750 kg).
In terms of chassis and safety, the Insignia was well-equipped for its time. It features an independent McPherson strut front suspension with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, paired with an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup aimed to provide a comfortable yet composed ride. Braking is handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear, supported by an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) as standard. The vehicle rolls on 215/60 R16 tires mounted on 16-inch wheel rims, a common specification for models prioritizing ride comfort and efficiency.
Technical Specifications: Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) Automatic
| Category | Specification | US Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| General Information | ||
| Brand | Vauxhall | – |
| Model | Insignia | – |
| Generation | Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) | – |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) Automatic | – |
| Start of Production | 2013 year | – |
| End of Production | 2015 year | – |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine | – |
| Body Type | Sedan | – |
| Seats | 5 | – |
| Doors | 4 | – |
| Performance Specs | ||
| Fuel consumption (economy) – urban | 7.2 l/100 km | 32.7 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – extra urban | 4.2 l/100 km | 56 US mpg |
| Fuel consumption (economy) – combined | 5.3 l/100 km | 44.4 US mpg |
| CO2 emissions | 140 g/km | – |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | – |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec (Calculated by Auto-Data.net) | – |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec | – |
| Maximum speed | 209 km/h | 129.87 mph |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 | – |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.9 kg/Hp, 101.1 Hp/tonne | 21.82 lbs/Hp, 101.1 Hp/ton |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 217 Nm/tonne | 10.14 lbs/Nm, 217 Nm/ton |
| Engine Specs | ||
| Power | 163 Hp @ 4000 rpm | – |
| Power per liter | 83.3 Hp/l | – |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm | 258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse | – |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTH | – |
| Engine displacement | 1956 cm3 | 119.36 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 | – |
| Engine configuration | Inline | – |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm | 3.27 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm | 3.56 in. |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 | – |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail | – |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler | – |
| Valvetrain | DOHC | – |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l | 4.76 US qt |
| Coolant | 9 l | 9.51 US qt |
| Engine systems | Particulate filter | – |
| Space, Volume and Weights | ||
| Kerb Weight | 1613 kg | 3556.06 lbs. |
| Max. weight | 2155 kg | 4750.96 lbs. |
| Max load | 542 kg | 1194.91 lbs. |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l | 17.66 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1015 l | 35.84 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l | 18.49 US gal |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1600 kg | 3527.4 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 750 kg | 1653.47 lbs. |
| Dimensions | ||
| Length | 4842 mm | 190.63 in. |
| Width | 1856 mm | 73.07 in. |
| Width including mirrors | 2084 mm | 82.05 in. |
| Height | 1498 mm | 58.98 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2737 mm | 107.76 in. |
| Front overhang | 1027 mm | 40.43 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1078 mm | 42.44 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.4 m | 37.4 ft. |
| Drivetrain, Brakes and Suspension Specs | ||
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. | – |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive | – |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission | – |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar | – |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link suspension | – |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs | – |
| Rear brakes | Disc | – |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) | – |
| Tires size | 215/60 R16 | – |
| Wheel rims size | 16 | – |
Legacy and Market Impact
The Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon, particularly in its facelifted 2013 guise with the efficient 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC engine and automatic transmission, played a crucial role in Vauxhall’s product lineup and the broader European automotive market. As a direct competitor to established players like the Ford Mondeo (Fusion in the US), Volkswagen Passat, and to a lesser extent, entry-level premium sedans such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4, the Insignia carved out a niche as a value-oriented, spacious, and well-appointed family car. Its primary market in the UK saw it frequently appear on company car fleets due to its competitive pricing, low running costs (especially with the diesel engine), and comfortable long-distance cruising capabilities.
The Insignia’s reputation was built on its blend of practicality, understated elegance, and solid, dependable engineering. While it might not have offered the same dynamic prowess as some of its German premium rivals, it excelled in providing a smooth, quiet ride and a comfortable cabin, which were highly valued by its target demographic. The facelift in 2013 helped to keep the model fresh and competitive against newer entrants and updated rivals, ensuring it remained relevant until the arrival of the second-generation Insignia in 2017. Its impact solidified Vauxhall’s presence in a segment that was increasingly under pressure from the burgeoning SUV market, proving that a traditional sedan could still offer a compelling package for discerning European consumers. The 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC engine, in particular, was lauded for its real-world fuel efficiency, making it an economically sensible choice for high-mileage drivers. Overall, the Vauxhall Insignia I Saloon (facelift 2013) 2.0 CDTi ecoTEC (163 Hp) Automatic stands as a testament to practical, efficient, and comfortable European automotive engineering, tailored for its specific market.
