Sharper, more precise, even more efficient
THE new Opel Insignia GSi is a sports sedan for those who like something special. A driver’s car for maximum fun on all kinds of roads.
The chassis with its very dynamic set-up and the particularly high level of grip, in combination with all-wheel drive, ensures a rewarding driving experience as well as maximum safety. The new eight-speed automatic transmission can be operated via shift-paddles at the steering wheel – like a racing car – for an even more active driving experience.
Typical of the new Insignia-generation is the combination of lightweight design, low center of gravity and 2.0-liter turbo power.
This results in excellent balance and an ideal power to weight ratio. Such internal values deserve a special exterior - with large chrome air-intakes at the front and a neat rear spoiler for the necessary downforce on the rear axle, the GSi’s looks perfectly match the performance. The leather upholstered, integrated sports seats (specially developed for the GSi), aluminum pedals and the leather sports steering wheel add the finishing touches.
Fine tuning in the best Opel tradition has led to the most efficient Insignia ever, making the new GSi dynamically different to the already agile Insignia Grand Sport.
A new level of modern sportiness characterised by superb grip and razor-sharp precision – features that fans of sporty midsize sedans will appreciate, which can also be seen on the stop watch.
The finishing touches were put to the Insignia GSi on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife. The Opel engineers have developed an all-new chassis for the GSi on the Nürburgring, which triple F1 world champion Jackie Stewart famously described as the ‘Green Hell’.
Shorter springs lower the GSi by 10 millimetres and special sports shock absorbers reduce body movements to a minimum.
The powerful Brembo four-cylinder brakes (diameter 345 millimeter) and the already direct steering were adapted accordingly.
The Insignia GSi is equipped as standard with the mechatronic FlexRide chassis. It adapts shock absorbers and steering in fractions of a second; the control unit also changes the calibration of the accelerator pedal and the shift points of the eight-speed automatic. The driver can choose between Standard, Tour and Sport modes. Subject to the chosen mode, steering and throttle-response is then even more direct. Exclusive to the GSi is the Competition mode, which is activated via the ESP button.
The sports-chassis, developed in combination with the extra grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires and big 18-inch wheels, offers almost unparalled levels of adhesion. This is thanks to the all-wheel drive with torque vectoring fitted as standard, which is unique in this segment.
In this high-tech system, a conventional differential on the rear axle is replaced by two clutches, which can accelerate each rear wheel individually in fractions of a second, depending on the driving situation. Annoying understeer, where the front wheels push towards the outside of the corner, is therefore almost banished from the Insignia GSi. In other words, the GSi takes a neat line through a series of turns.
The sports sedan is powered by an impressive petrol turbo engine that combines fuel efficiency with performance.
The powerful 2.0-liter turbo produces 191 kW (260 hp) and develops generous torque of 400 Newton meters (NEDC fuel consumption: 11.2 liters per 100 km urban; 7.1 l/100 km extra-urban; 8.6 l/100 km combined; 197 g/km CO2). The four-cylinder unit is mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission.
The driver has the option of shifting gears via paddles at the steering wheel. With the transmission shifting automatically the driver can even preselect the shift points in Standard and Sport modes. In addition to the 2.0-litre petrol turbo, the GSi will also offer a powerful new diesel engine.
The sporty capabilities of the Insignia GSi are matched by design cues, technology-highlights and accessories. At the top of the list is the new sports seat developed by Opel, which provides increased lateral support as well as long-distance comfort.
The new Insignia GSi will make its world premiere at the IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show (September 14-24) and will be available to order in Ireland later this year.