Test Drive Report: Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTi
Have you noticed that the business suit has in recent times become a little casual? There seems to be an increasing number of men wearing the 2 or 3 piece threads but without a tie. Is the traditional trademark gradually dying off? In my mind, ties make the suit and often the man. The right tie in co-ordination with a quality shirt can make or break how it looks on the occupier. The same can be said for the choice of car the mainstream businessman drives. Although there is a broad choice available in the marketplace, few best suit the now more casual looking business user. While the Ford Mondeo and new Toyota Avensis generate a certain panache, nothing stirs the emotion like the new Opel Insignia. Its flash, its brash and most of all, appealing.
GM Design Chief Mark Adam’s creation has attracted a fan base for new Opel customers with the Insignia’s sharp lines and coupe like styling. Available as a 4 door saloon and 5 door hatch and powered by a range of petrol and diesel engines, there is also an all-wheel-drive version. The statement-making theme continues inside as the wrap-around dash, comfortably surrounds the driver and provides all the information and control to the eye and hand that can only enhance a safe journey.
As diesel power is the norm in this commercial arena, not only from a fuel economy point of view but also through the CO2 emission controlled BIK system that now operates here. Fiat Powertrain Technologies provide both versions of its highly acclaimed 2.0 litre unit to General Motors for the Insignia in 130 hp and 160 hp form. Mated to a 6 speed gearbox, both powerplants more than cater for the needs of the high mileage traveller.
Having spent a week covering around 1,000 kms or so in the 130hp CTDi, I enjoyed what the Insignia brings to the sector. It certainly turned eyes on the road and through the towns.
What was most pleasing was how well it handled. The more tight and twisty the roads were the better it performed. Poor road surfaces did not challenge its well-balanced suspension either. The new Insignia is a car you would never get tired of driving. For the company car user choser, the Insignia blends in superbly with the sharp suit of the driver worn with or without the tie! Magee’s of Donegal or Louis Copeland’s finest would feel at home such is the high level finish of the interior together with the choice of colours and fabrics. The Insignia has brought GM Opel to new heights in this highly competitive sector.
Spec Check
Make/Model: Opel Insignia SE 2.0 CDTi Hatch
Engine: 2.0 litre Ecotec euro 5 4 cylinder
Power: 130 hp/96 kW @ 4000 rpm
Torque: 300 Nm @1750 – 2500 rpm
Transmission: 6 speed manual FWD
Fuel consumption: 4.7L/100 (extra-urban)
CO2 Emissions: 154 g/km
Tax Band: C – €302 – 30% BIK
Price: €31,395
Likes Dislikes
. Shape * Low rear entry
. Performance * Steering a bit light
JARLATH SWEENEY