Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTi 160 CV, test drive (Part II)

Having covered the engine and performance of the Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTi 160 CV (Part I) and continuing with the test drive, now we turn to the exterior design, interior space, and the quality of the materials. Without a doubt, the most notable aspect is the exterior appearance, and we really liked the new design, which drew many looks on the street.

The Insignia is a car that for now is rarely seen, and it turns heads. Its exterior design also gives it elegance; it is undoubtedly a much more successful look compared with its predecessor, which did not convey as much character. That said, the rear end and the design make the rear seats uncomfortable for tall people, since because of the car’s design it is easy to hit your head on the roof if you are tall.

Exterior design, interior space and quality of materials

As mentioned earlier, the design is a major asset of the Insignia. The Opel saloon has nothing to envy from German premium saloons, and it is a car that conveys elegance and has more than considerable dimensions, since the Insignia measures 4.83 metres in length, and that is noticeable. The new front headlights of the model we tested (which were fitted with xenon adaptive headlights with cornering lights) also came with integrated daytime running lights.

One aspect to keep in mind on the Insignia is its wide wheel arches. Parking becomes a bit complicated given its size and width, although the parking sensors do their job well. The design works against rear visibility, which was not as good as it should be. In short, the exterior design is very successful, on a par with premium saloons, and it does not leave people indifferent, giving the model character.

Moving on to the interior, our model came equipped with every extra, including leather upholstery with heated and ventilated seats (something that is finally starting to be fitted and is very practical if you opt for leather upholstery). The driving position is very comfortable, with a multifunction steering wheel, and you quickly find the ideal driving posture; besides, everything is quite within reach. The front seats, in the version tested, were sport-style and ergonomic and held the body very well with good lateral support. In addition, the rear bench was extendable (see image), a very interesting detail.

One thing I did not like about the driving position is the placement of the navigation and multimedia system controls (see image). The system can be operated from the centre console or from a control located behind the gear lever. The problem is that when changing gears it is very easy to hit the control until you get used to it.

At the rear the comfort of a saloon of its type is maintained, travelling comfortably. On the downside, headroom for anyone over 1.70 m is a little tight. The rear seats have air vents (something necessary) that help comfort, and there is plenty of legroom.

As for the boot, it is spacious (520 litres) but not very deep, although it has regular shapes and a large loading opening, at least in our version, which was the five-door model (fitted with a tailgate). The full-size spare wheel is also worth mentioning; it is an extra costing 60 euros, but highly recommended. A practical feature of the Insignia is the ski hatch (see image): the boot has an opening that runs through the central armrest and allows skis to be carried comfortably in the car.

Finally, we have the quality of the materials, which has improved greatly compared with the Vectra and places it at the level of a mid-size saloon. Overall, the quality and finish of the materials is good, although some things stand out, such as the centre console, which moves too much. The instrumentation also does its job well and features a screen (see image) showing instantaneous and average consumption, instantaneous and average speed, and two partial odometers.

In the final part of the test we will tell you about the equipment and prices of the Insignia.

Photos | David Taboada