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Plain Sailing

Vauxhall is ready for a new boom in sales now that it has cut loose its plain-Jane Vectra; check out the new Insignia replacement which will be launched at the British Motor Show this July

Give the Vectra its due, it was a popular, practical family car, it just didn’t spark any pheromones. Now though with a strapping new look, two new engines and improved chassis, it is set to take on its main rival, the Ford Mondeo. Both models have been transformed almost beyond recognition and are likely to be marketed at a similar price. They’ve also got their green credentials in order so as to make themselves as attractive as possible to the fleet market too. Now the Mondeo has already proved itself as a driver’s car but delaying the Insignia’s launch date and especially coinciding with the British Motor Show will ensure that it gets maximum exposure.

The British market is of course a prime location for the Insignia and everything about it has been geared towards us. The handling and adaptive 4WD system is complimented by a range of sporty engines, the most economical being a 2.0-litre diesel producing 128bhp. The other oil burner has a maximum output of 158bhp while the three petrol units produce between 138bhp and 256bhp. Low CO2 EcoFLEX engines will follow later in the year.

Vauxhall’s Insignia comes in a choice of hatchback or saloon and both look equally harrowing due to the mounds of muscle which extend from the wheel arches and also round off its rear end. The deep scoops in its side panels and boot lid are again there to challenge its predecessor’s flat, dimensionless look and as far as we’re concerned, job done! Completing the makeover is a new grille, head and tail lamps. They’ve even injected a bit of energy in to the old Griffin and the logo looks all the better for it.

The insignia is longer than the Vectra and more aerodynamic. Headroom however is just as liberal while the legroom is much improved. Vauxhall’s mid-sized five-seater even gives the Germans run for their money in the quality stakes. Despite its favourable pricing Vauxhall has laid on plenty of standard features which include ambient lighting, optimal ergonomics and some decadent wrap around padding for the instrument panel.

Verdict

FOR: Too soon to say
AGAINST: Too soon to say
CONCLUSION: Awaiting test drive

Spec

ENGINE: 2.0-litre Diesel
POWER: 158bhp
TRANSMISSION: Six speed auto or Manual
PRICE: TBC
RIVALS: Ford Mondeo