Insignia: good just got better

The Daily Telegraph’s Andrew English says the “good” Insignia “just got better” in his review of the revised Vauxhall saloon. “Scope those new headlamps, grille and more coherent brightwork,” he writes. “The Insignia was one of the first Vauxhalls to benefit from Design Chief Mark Adams’ new-form philosophy and this update is designed to make it look lower and wider. All the sheet metal is carried over, as is the underbody, but the tailgate is new.” Inside, Vauxhall has made itself stand out by being neither “in thrall to Apple, nor cowering like ignorant medieval villagers from the voodoo technology of touchscreens”. English explains: “The dash is simple but well finished, the combined digital/analogue instrument binnacle works well and the large optional touchscreen is clearly marked and relatively easy to use.” It’s a clear sign that Vauxhall has “grown up”, he says. “The colour choices are warm and welcoming, the fit and finish is as good as anything from Audi or BMW. The plain, dark plastics are lovely to touch and the contrasting nappa leather is a delight.” The optional “orthopaedically-designed” driver’s seat is “one of the most comfortable chairs you’ll find outside of a Volvo” and there’s “plenty of room”. English’s attention is focused on the 161bhp diesel. “It returns 65.7mpg, emits 114g/km of CO2 and attracts 17 per cent benefit-in-kind tax. It’s quick enough to make a satisfying drive but economical. Refinement at speed is good and noise levels are low. The suspension was honed in Britain as well as Germany, and it shows. We found a bumpy, twisting road and could clearly determine that the Insignia’s ride is more compliant and comfortable.” He adds: “So, good just got better. The Insignia is still a great car and it seems a pity we all spend our money on other German cars since they’re not necessarily better.” (Link: The Telegraph, 25 September)