Driving ahead

Highlighting just how competitive the medium-size car market has become, Vauxhall has done a lot more than just change the headlights on its popular and updated Insignia.

The refreshed Insignia benefits from useful price reductions, an increase in equipment levels, cleaner engines and a new fascia complete with the option of a revamped infotainment system.

If you look closely you’ll see the Insignia does indeed boast new headlights and a mildly tweaked nose. It’s a similar deal around the back with a new tail lights. Another visual clue to this being a “new” car are the bold alloy wheel designs available, all the way from company car-friendly 16-inch ones to larger, more intricate ones shod with sporty low profile tyres.

For the average Insignia driver sensible running costs and a comfortable driving experience are the priorities, though. In this context the Insignia has always done a good job. However, Vauxhall has raised the bar by delivering a choice of two 2.0-litre diesel engines complete with 99g/km CO2 emissions ratings and a wallet-friendly 76.3mpg figure.

On the road this new diesel unit is a significant and welcome step forward in terms of refinement and overall performance. Although clearly set up to deliver economy savings, performance can be brisk if you’re prepared to use the car’s six-speed manual gearbox often. Factor in the high class cabin ambience and modest noise levels and the driving experience is a pleasingly upmarket one.

Buyers with an aversion to buttons will rejoice at the news that Vauxhall has revamped the Insignia’s fascia. As standard a small screen that forms the basis of the car’s infotainment system replaces the old car’s sea of buttons. Pay extra and you can have a full colour touchscreen with a further option of sat-nav.

Vauxhall bosses clearly thought one fancy screen wasn’t enough though, as the Insignia’s traditional main dials have been replaced by a more informative and easy on the eye electronic one. There’s even the option of trading up to an all-singing, all-dancing eight inch version, complete with slick graphics and offering the driver easy access to a wealth of information via controls on the steering wheel.

This tech-heavy approach continues with a variety of model dependent kit such as a lane departure warning system, a collision warning alarm, active cruise control plus parking sensors along with the obligatory camerabased assistance.

With hatchbacks forming the bulk of the Insignia’s sales, it’s a car that performs a number of roles well. Cabin space and oddment storage is good, while boot space should prove more than sufficient for most people’s needs. That it also looks stylish and the overall design has stood the test of time is a welcome plus.