Opel Insignia ecoFLEX: Green and Strong

• Clean: only 136 g/km CO₂ and 5.2 l/100 km
• Dynamic: 160 hp and up to 380 Nm of torque
• Sleek: among the best with a C_D of 0.26

Rüsselsheim.  The new Opel Insignia ecoFLEX combines the best of both worlds: It offers low emissions and fuel consumption without compromising on performance or driving dynamic. While it only consumes 5.2 liter of diesel per 100 km – equivalent to 136 g/km of CO₂  emissions – it delivers 118 kW/160 hp and a up to 380 Nm of torque. That is thanks to a powerful, new generation turbo diesel 2-liter common rail engine refined specifically for this model.

Like the engines across the entire Insignia range, the one on the ecoFLEX meets tough Euro 5 standards. Due to an exceptionally low level of CO₂ emissions in its category, well below 140g/km, it can benefit from substantial tax advantages in several European countries. Moreover, attractive pricing and outstanding performance make the Insignia ecoFLEX a rarity, accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and reaching a top speed of 221 km/h. Prices start at 27,500 euros in Germany.

The Insignia ecoFLEX notchback and hatchback sedans will be available at Opel dealerships early summer 2009. A Sports Tourer variant will debut this fall.

“When defining the Insignia ecoFLEX, we decided to offer more than just a green car: It needed to deliver a high level of performance and as many innovative technologies as the rest of the Insignia range. At this price, it simply has no true competitor,” says Hans Demant, Managing Director Adam Opel GmbH.  

CleanTech technology optimizes efficiency

The heart of the ecoFLEX model is the 118 kW/160 hp version of the new generation 4-cylinder 2.0 CDTI launched on the Insignia last winter. It comes exclusively with a 6-speed manual gearbox, whose final gear ratio has been lengthened to reduce engine speed and fuel consumption. In addition, a gear shift indicator signals to the driver when the powertrain management system considers shifting up a gear would be optimal to saving fuel.

Moreover, shorter gear ratios have been selected for the first and second gears to avoid any deterioration of the Insignia ecoFLEX acceleration capabilities: It reaches 100km/h from a standstill in only 9.5 seconds – a performance that is identical to the standard 2.0 CDTI 160 hp version.

A specific, innovative technology premieres in the engine of the Insignia ecoFLEX: the CleanTech Combustion Process. Developed by GM engineers, it ensures the lowest possible fuel consumption and level of emissions via an electronic close-loop system. The key enablers of that fuel economy technology are the new piezo-resistive sensors which measure the pressure in each of the four combustion chambers.

C_D value places ecoFLEX among the top streamlined sedans in the world

The Insignia ecoFLEX reaches a remarkable C_D value of 0.26, placing it among the top streamlined sedans in the world – in the same company of more expensive cars from premium brands.

Compared to a standard 2.0 CDTI Insignia, the air drag value of the ecoFLEX model has been reduced by no less than 20 points. Five major modifications contribute to this result: Tank covers were added in front of the rear axle; the upper cooling grille was closed; the center cut-out of the front spoiler was closed; the standing height was lowered and the lower side of the radiator was sealed.  

In addition, the Insignia ecoFLEX is equipped with specifically designed, low resistance 225/55 R 17 tires developed by Michelin.

EcoFLEX available with all innovative technologies from the Insignia

The ecoFLEX model benefits from the innovative technologies which have made the Insignia the 2009 Car of the Year. The Insignia’s newly developed mechatronic chassis can be enhanced with the innovative FlexRide system which raises stability and provides real time, electronically controlled damping. FlexRide gives the driver the choice between three driving modes: In addition to the standard comfort setting, one can opt for a softer Tour mode, or experience the performance of the Insignia ecoFLEX in a more active way by selecting the Sport mode which impacts both the ride, the steering and gas pedal response.

Another innovative feature beneficial to the safety and the driving precision is the new-generation AFL+ system featuring bi-xenon headlamps that adjust to prevailing traffic conditions with nine different lighting functions. Also available is the new Opel Eye front camera system which recognizes traffic signs and warns drivers when they unintentionally veer out of their lane. Last but not least: For the health of Insignia ecoFLEX customers who are frequent drivers, Opel also offers favorably priced, particularly back-friendly, orthopedically-certified ergonomic sport seats.

Opel offers a complete range of ecoFLEX models

The new Opel Insignia ecoFLEX joins a full range of Opel cars designed for environmentally friendly mobility. In each model family, the ecoFLEX version gives the lowest fuel consumption and CO₂  emissions. EcoFLEX models are not only powered with diesel, but also offer gasoline and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) variants.

“For years, we have been committed to providing accessible technical innovation and protecting our environment at all levels,” recalls Alain Visser, Vice President Opel. “We believe this is our social responsibility, particularly as it now becomes a stronger wish from our customers. Both are of equal importance to us.”

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