And this time we have another piece from the OPEL workshop. By that piece, I mean the new Insignia – the flagship, as the manufacturer calls it.
We tested the new Insignia some time ago in the Sports Tourer version . The test took place mainly in Prague and the surrounding area, where we were tormented by city corners, parking in garages, but we also tried a test of flexible acceleration on drop-offs outside the city.
The tested Insignia in the station wagon body version, which is still a popular variant despite the SUV boom, attracts its potential owners not only with a giant trunk, but also with a very good design, which is often praised even by the brand's opponents. A peculiarity may also be the fact that GrandLand, which we also tested, receives similar words of praise. This only confirms the fact that the design language of these lines really appeals to the wider masses.
The characteristic side line of the car seems almost endless and in combination with large clean surfaces without unnecessary design breaks gives the car a hint of luxury. Everything is then crowned with beautiful triangular shaped LED lights. The wide mask of the front intake looks atypically elegant, when compared to the competing Mazda 6 it does not evoke predatory racing emotions. After all, it only confirms the philosophy of a primarily family car, which underlines the volume of the luggage compartment, as well as the legroom in the second row of seats. When I analyze the characteristic exterior features, I must not forget the design cherry on the cake in the form of the end of the car's side chrome strip. It corresponds very impressively with the rear lights, and its intersection with the brake light adds a certain unmistakability to the rear view of the car.
The interior matches perfectly, and when you choose the decor with black gloss, you will certainly not make a mistake and move the car into the category of luxury family cars. In combination with the 8" LCD display, head-up display and partially digitally processed alarm clocks, you can feel almost like you are in a premium brand.
The fact that the Insignia is a really long car does not need repeating, it is over four meters and ninety centimeters. This nearly five meter long machine just doesn't quite fit in the city. Parking in underground garages has to be done at least three times thanks to the long nose, and that is simply not fun. With caution and due to the long overhangs of the axles, you will often sweat even when zigzagging in the city center. Watch out for curbs! However, you will get your taste when you cross the traffic sign marking the end of the village. Sports tourer is a designation that is truly apt. The six-speed manual that was available in the tested version is absolutely adequate for the driving style that is expected with this machine. It will also provide flexible acceleration, which will not push you through the seat, but will surprisingly set off to your destination even with a loaded car.
In the overall assessment, the problems with the electronics that accompanied us during the test cannot be neglected. Problems with the engine light coming on randomly are simply always a nuisance, whether it's an Opel or any other brand. In this case, the engine did not behave in any particular way, and all functions were preserved, but one naturally feels uneasy. On the other hand, I have to highlight the assistance service in connection with the malfunction. This system, which you activate by pressing a button that directly dials the operation center, is really top-notch. The service and assistance service acts as your extended hand, as your advisor on the go. Much to your surprise, it can even remotely diagnose faults with the vehicle, arrange towing or recommend the next course of action. And all this with a professional and funny approach and mainly in Czech.
In conclusion, the Insignia is the best thing you can buy from Opel, but to really buy it, you just have to like it.
