The Vauxhall Insignia is a desirable car that is a big step forward from the Vectra it replaces. It is fitted with lots of high-tech kit and features smart coupe-like styling.
Practicality
The Vauxhall Insignia is a fine family car though it is not as spacious as it first appears from the outside due to the sweeping roofline restricting headroom in the back.
However the compromise is worth it because the Insignia looks so good – and you have to be over six feet tall to notice it.
There’s a practical boot in the hatchback that that offers a rectangular 520 litres of space – and this can be increased by lowering the rear seats when you want to carry larger loads.
The Insignia is a practical option for a family as its running costs are reasonable with both diesel engines returning the best part of 50mpg, while servicing and insurance costs will not empty the piggy bank.
Prices for the car have been kept down making the Insignia good value for money.
Vauxhall have made the Insignia a pleasure to drive although initially it takes a bit of time to get used to the layout of the dashboard. The centre console is a blizzard of buttons which is a bit surprising as most of the car’s functions can be accessed via menus on a digital screen.
On the plus side all shapes and sizes can be accommodated behind the wheel as there is a huge range of seat and steering wheel adjustment to help the driver get comfortable.
Life Style
The Vauxhall Insignia is a classy way to transport a family. Both build quality and the materials used in its construction are excellent making life anything but a chore for passengers and driver.
The interior is surprisingly sumptuous with an elegantly crafted cabin that could easily pass for a luxury model.
The Insignia is also a decent drive with a composure that is regal. It gobbles up miles on the motorway with ease that leaves the driver fresh as a daisy even after the longest trip. Even on twisty tracks the Insignia offers fine body control and a generally smooth ride. The steering could be a little sharper but that is a minor quibble as the handling is pretty impressive. At the end of the day Vauxhall has gone for composure rather than an eyeballs out sport set up. If that is what is required though the sporty SRi models and the Sport mode on the optional Flexride system should prove adequate.
If there is a criticism of the Insignia it is perhaps its refinement when driven over rough roads as the resulting noise can make its presence felt in the cabin.
The Insignia sets new benchmarks when it comes to exterior design for this type of vehicle and there may be some who do not like the its shape – but there is no doubt that the bold grille and coupe-like profile will certainly stand out in any supermarket car park.
As far as the environment is concerned every Insignia engine meets European emissions standards.
Security and Safety
The Vauxhall Insignia is a desirable motor so its defences against theft are good with all models fitted with remote central locking, alarm and immobiliser.
The Vauxhall Insignia is fitted with six airbags, stability control, anti-whiplash front head restraints and an alert to tell you if anyone in the rear has undone their seatbelt. This excellent safety package is augmented at the front of the car with headlights that have nine different beam patterns to suit prevailing driving conditions.
The Finishing Touches
The Vauxhall Insignia is crammed full of kit. There are five trim levels with the entry-level Exclusiv cars getting cruise control, front electric windows, climate control, powered seat adjustment and radio/CD player. By the time the top of the range Elite specification is reached, heated front seats seats, parking sensors, electric rear windows and alloy wheels are just some of the goodies that have been added.
Vauxhall Insignia Car Review Summary
The Vauxhall Insignia is offered as a hatchback, saloon and an estate with styling that catches the eye. The Insignia has a real presence on the road with a sleek, modern exterior and an elegant, ergonomic cabin.
Six engines are offered – four petrol and two diesel – with the 2.0-litre 158bhp and 128bhp oil burners likely to be the better sellers as they offer the best blend of performance and economy.
