The Opel/Vauxhall Insignia was such a massive step forward from the dreadful Vectra that it appeared as if the GM-controlled automaker had started completely from scratch and made something worthy of praise.
The Insignia has proved to be a strong buy, and now it is getting updated to stay strong in the face of perpetually-improving rivals, which are now not only limited to its specific class, as it most definitely reels in a few Audi A4 and Mercedes-Benz C-Class buyers with an option-less premium car, or a fully-kitted out Insignia with leather, and all of the goodies buyers like to have.
The changes made to the 2014 Insignia are subtle, but one will notice the revised front fascia. The headlights, are new, and quite different in shape, but I personally don’t think they look any better than the ones fitted to high-spec models of the first-gen car. The rear is clearly inspired by the Cascada drop-top, and its makeover is to my eyes a more successful one than that attempted at the front.
Also new are four engines to choose from, the most powerful of which being a 250 PS 2.0-liter turbocharged petrol, as well as the new 170 PS 1.6-liter turbo unit, which has already made its debut. The chassis has also been fettled-with, which is a good thing, because it was described as very competent before – ride quality and handling both get a boost, says the manufacturer.
Inside, owners of the current model will be struck by the new center stack and dials, which have been completely redesigned. Opel says: “The center console has been simplified and now has fewer buttons for more intuitive operation of common functions, such as air conditioning and infotainment, while the instrument cluster has new dials and a fresh, high-tech look.”
An 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system is also available as an option now, as well as the familiar passive and active safety features which are now essential to have a real high-volume seller in the range.
By Andrei Nedelea
PHOTO GALLERY
