The Insignia has been a popular choice in the D-Segment for several years now and Vauxhall wants to keep it that way providing it with GM’s new ‘Whisper’ 2.0-litre diesel engine. The competition in this class is really strong with the key opponents to include among other the fresh VW Passat and Ford Mondeo.

So, what’s new?

The name of the game is refinement, with Vauxhall claiming best-in-class levels of quietness and general smoothness. This 2.0-litre oil-burner is part of the new ‘Whisper’ family of diesel engines and replaces the outgoing 161hp 2.0CDTi, producing 170PS (168hp) at 3500-4000rpm and 295lb ft of torque between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm, allowing the 1,538kg Insignia to accelerate from 0 to 62mph (100km/h) in 9.0 seconds all the way up to 139mph. Combined fuel economy is set at 65.7mpg UK and the CO2 figures are 114g/km.

The improved performance comes from a redesigned combustion chamber, a new fuel injection system and re-profiled intake ports among other changes. The 2.0 CDTi also uses the BlueInjection Selective Catalytic Reduction system, an after-treatment which essentially removes Nitrogen oxide (NOx) from the exhaust gasses by injecting a solution into the exhaust gas flow, ahead of the catalyst.

Does it really whisper?

Well, sort of. The Insignia was always a good cruising machine but this newly-found refinement is really keeping it among the best on this field, with the engine settling in a relaxing hum once you get going. You can still hear the diesel rattle in low speeds but it isn’t intrusive nor affecting the general relaxed character of the car.

Vibrations are indeed kept to a minimum and the torque is usefully available from low down the rev-range, providing a strong push when needed. The six-speed manual is still not the most pleasing unit to stir your gears but the easily available torque means you don’t have to worry too much about it.

All of the above are combined with a very comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and other imperfections with ease, making the Insignia one of the most capable long-distance runners. Don’t expect though any thrills while doing so, though, because of the numb steering and the general softness of its reactions on the limit. It never really communicates with the driver the way a Ford Mondeo does.

And the verdict is…

The Vauxhall Insignia is one of the most practical and relaxing mid-sized sedans in the segment. The new engine is really one of the best in its class, offering strong performance, low emissions and excellent levels of refinement. The competition it faces though is pretty tough and most importantly fresher, like the new VW Passat, the Ford Mondeo and the soon-to-be-launched Skoda Superb ready to get in its way. That said, and despite its age, the Insignia remains a solid and comfortable performer, albeit a dull one to drive.

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