A new and more powerful four-cylinder diesel engine has landed under the hood of the Vauxhall Insignia (sold under the Opel nameplate in the rest of Europe and as the Buick Regal in North America). The 2.0-liter unit delivers an output of 195PS (198bhp) at 4,000 rpm and a healthy peak torque of 400Nm (295 lb-ft) between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm.
The new diesel engine is based on the existing 2.0 CDTi used on several Vauxhall / Opel models such as the Insignia, Astra and new Zafira Tourer range but in the Insignia BiTurbo, it gains twin-sequential turbochargers boosting output by 35PS and peak torque by 50Nm.
The smaller turbo is used at lower engine speeds to abolish ‘lag’, providing up to 350Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque from 1500rpm, while in the mid-range, both turbochargers work together allowing for a maximum torque of 400Nm between 1750-2500rpm. From 3,000rpm and on, all gases flow directly to the larger turbo.
The added power reduces the 0-60mph time by nearly one second to 8.2 seconds for the Insignia FWD Hatch.
Despite the improved performance numbers, the BiTurbo model is actually more fuel-efficient than the single turbo version thanks to a suite of eco features that include standard Start/Stop system, with the FWD Hatch returning a combined 57.6mpg UK (48mpg US or 4.9lt/100km), 2.2mpg better than the single-turbo 2.0 CDTi 160PS model.
The new Insignia BiTurbo is available with a choice of five-door Hatch and Sports Tourer bodies in SRi, SRi Vx-line and Elite trims, with UK prices starting from £27,120 OTR.
PHOTO GALLERY
VAUXHALL INSIGNIA BITURBO SPECIFICATIONS