The Opel Insignia is a large family car (D-segment in Europe) developed and produced by Opel from 2008 to 2022. Taking its name from a 2003 concept car, the model line serves as the flagship model, slotted above the Astra and Corsa in size. The Insignia serves as the successor to both the Signum and Vectra model lines, replacing both vehicles under a single nameplate. The model line was offered in four-door sedan/saloon body styles, five-door liftback, and as a five-door station wagon/estate.
Rainer271
Kraftwagen König
- Messages
- 11,055
- Name
- Rainer
Opel Insignia GSi
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 a very good 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), the leather sports steering wheel and the aluminum pedals add the finishing touches.
Fine tuning in the best Opel tradition has led to the most efficient Insignia ever that makes the new GSi dynamically different to the already agile Insignia Grand Sport. A new level of modern sportiness characterized by superb grip and razor-sharp precision - talents that fans of sporty midsize sedans will appreciate, which can also be seen on the stop watch. "The new Insignia GSi is clearly quicker over one lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife than the more powerful Insignia OPC of the previous generation" concluded Director Performance Cars & Motorsport, Volker Strycek after testing. One of the reasons is that the GSi is 160 kilograms lighter than a comparable Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 Turbo. Just like a lean athlete.
"It is this combination of low weight - especially on the front axle - low center of gravity, easy handling, high power over a wide rpm-band and best traction which makes the GSi so fast" says an enthusiastic Strycek. "That is pure efficiency. The high grip level is perfect for the Nordschleife and a fun-to-drive as well as safety advantage on public roads."
On the "Green Hell": the toughest race track in the world
The finishing touches were put to the Insignia GSi on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Here in the Eifel mountains Opel runs a test center for setting up its performance cars. 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 millimeters 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. A double-press allows skillful drivers more yaw and switches off traction control - for a fast lap of the Nordschleife, for example
The sports-chassis, developed in combination with the extra grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires and big 20-inch wheels, offers almost limpet-like levels of adhesion. A major contribution comes from 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 gasoline 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-liter gasoline turbo, the GSi will also offer a powerful new diesel engine.
Sporty features: from new Opel performance sport seat to rear spoiler
The sporty capabilities of the Opel 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 premium sports seat is AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) and therefore ergonomically ideal. Just like in the Insignia Grand Sport it offers ventilation, heating, massage and adjustable side bolsters. In the GSi the tall seatback also features an integrated head restraint. The routing of the seatbelt at shoulder level is ideal, which is not a given for integral seats. The customer can choose from two leather combinations, each decorated with a GSi emblem. The logo also proudly adorns the rear of the car, which carries an efficient spoiler for the required downforce on the rear axle. The rear apron looks similar to a diffusor and features two chrome-edged exhaust pipes. Similarly chrome-edged air-intakes are located ahead of the front wheels. Fans will also appreciate the appropriate ambience in the interior, such as in the flattened lower area of the leather-wrapped steering wheel, the aluminum pedals and the black ceiling - in the best style of a very special sports sedan.
33-year tradition: the GSi models from Opel
The Opel Insignia GSi continues a long tradition of sporty Opel cars named GSi. The first to stir up excitement were the Manta GSi and the Kadett GSi (115 hp from 1.8-liters) in 1984. Only four years later the 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve engine in the Kadett 2.0 GSi 16V delivered 150 hp. The first Astra also featured this engine and in 1993 there was a 1.8-liter 125 hp alternative in the Astra GSi. There was also a GSi with various generations of the Corsa, beginning with the 100 hp Corsa A (1988) that has become a much sought-after classic. At the (provisional!) end of the line was the Corsa D in August 2012.
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 a very good 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), the leather sports steering wheel and the aluminum pedals add the finishing touches.
Fine tuning in the best Opel tradition has led to the most efficient Insignia ever that makes the new GSi dynamically different to the already agile Insignia Grand Sport. A new level of modern sportiness characterized by superb grip and razor-sharp precision - talents that fans of sporty midsize sedans will appreciate, which can also be seen on the stop watch. "The new Insignia GSi is clearly quicker over one lap of the Nürburgring-Nordschleife than the more powerful Insignia OPC of the previous generation" concluded Director Performance Cars & Motorsport, Volker Strycek after testing. One of the reasons is that the GSi is 160 kilograms lighter than a comparable Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 Turbo. Just like a lean athlete.
"It is this combination of low weight - especially on the front axle - low center of gravity, easy handling, high power over a wide rpm-band and best traction which makes the GSi so fast" says an enthusiastic Strycek. "That is pure efficiency. The high grip level is perfect for the Nordschleife and a fun-to-drive as well as safety advantage on public roads."
On the "Green Hell": the toughest race track in the world
The finishing touches were put to the Insignia GSi on the legendary Nürburgring-Nordschleife. Here in the Eifel mountains Opel runs a test center for setting up its performance cars. 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 millimeters 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. A double-press allows skillful drivers more yaw and switches off traction control - for a fast lap of the Nordschleife, for example
The sports-chassis, developed in combination with the extra grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires and big 20-inch wheels, offers almost limpet-like levels of adhesion. A major contribution comes from 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 gasoline 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-liter gasoline turbo, the GSi will also offer a powerful new diesel engine.
Sporty features: from new Opel performance sport seat to rear spoiler
The sporty capabilities of the Opel 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 premium sports seat is AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.) and therefore ergonomically ideal. Just like in the Insignia Grand Sport it offers ventilation, heating, massage and adjustable side bolsters. In the GSi the tall seatback also features an integrated head restraint. The routing of the seatbelt at shoulder level is ideal, which is not a given for integral seats. The customer can choose from two leather combinations, each decorated with a GSi emblem. The logo also proudly adorns the rear of the car, which carries an efficient spoiler for the required downforce on the rear axle. The rear apron looks similar to a diffusor and features two chrome-edged exhaust pipes. Similarly chrome-edged air-intakes are located ahead of the front wheels. Fans will also appreciate the appropriate ambience in the interior, such as in the flattened lower area of the leather-wrapped steering wheel, the aluminum pedals and the black ceiling - in the best style of a very special sports sedan.
33-year tradition: the GSi models from Opel
The Opel Insignia GSi continues a long tradition of sporty Opel cars named GSi. The first to stir up excitement were the Manta GSi and the Kadett GSi (115 hp from 1.8-liters) in 1984. Only four years later the 2.0-liter DOHC 16-valve engine in the Kadett 2.0 GSi 16V delivered 150 hp. The first Astra also featured this engine and in 1993 there was a 1.8-liter 125 hp alternative in the Astra GSi. There was also a GSi with various generations of the Corsa, beginning with the 100 hp Corsa A (1988) that has become a much sought-after classic. At the (provisional!) end of the line was the Corsa D in August 2012.
hoffmeister_fan
Kraftwagen König
- Messages
- 11,310
Now that Opel is part of PSA, I wonder what GM is going to do with Buick in N. America. I'm not a Buick fan, but they were getting some interesting cars by way of Opel, namely the Regal GS (Insignia) and the TourX.
- Messages
- 1,090
- Name
- Danail
2020 Opel Insignia Facelift Makes Spyshots Debut as Camouflaged Wagon
The second-generation Insignia Sports Tourer was introduced just last year, so we're a little surprised to see it preparing for a facelift. But due to new ownership and a shrinking car market in Europe, Opel is adapting all its money makers as quickly as possible.
The Sports Tourer is only the first facelift version of the Insignia to be spotted. Nearly all of the camouflage is mounted to the front of the car, where we can make out a substantial redesign.
Bucking recent trends, Opel is giving the Insignia a much smaller main grille with mesh instead of the usual horizontal bars. The placement of the parking sensors also reveals that the so-called side intakes, which are just pieces of trim around the fog lights, will be smaller as well.
Meanwhile, the headlights have a brand new design, featuring small kinks at the bottom like Audi is doing on its SUVs. Also, we can make out a pale while LED halo around the main beam. Meanwhile, the back end of the car will feature a redesigned lower bumper and updated taillights.
We strongly believe that the cosmetic changes are just a pretext for Peugeot to install its own engines under the hood of the Insignia, thus saving money. Which engines? We only need to look at the range for the Peugeot 508, a direct competitor. Its lineup is made up of small 1.2 gasoline and 1.5 diesel units, two versions of the 2-liter diesel and the 1.6 turbo with up to 225 HP. Meanwhile, the Insignia mostly relies on Opel's 2.0-liter diesels. This prototype has two mufflers hidden away, so it's probably quite powerful.
Since the link between the two companies is so new, we don't know how much technology will trickle down during these facelifts. Peugeot makes some of the coolest interiors of any mainstream European automaker, but updating the Insignia's dashboard may prove unreasonably costly.
The second-generation Insignia Sports Tourer was introduced just last year, so we're a little surprised to see it preparing for a facelift. But due to new ownership and a shrinking car market in Europe, Opel is adapting all its money makers as quickly as possible.
The Sports Tourer is only the first facelift version of the Insignia to be spotted. Nearly all of the camouflage is mounted to the front of the car, where we can make out a substantial redesign.
Bucking recent trends, Opel is giving the Insignia a much smaller main grille with mesh instead of the usual horizontal bars. The placement of the parking sensors also reveals that the so-called side intakes, which are just pieces of trim around the fog lights, will be smaller as well.
Meanwhile, the headlights have a brand new design, featuring small kinks at the bottom like Audi is doing on its SUVs. Also, we can make out a pale while LED halo around the main beam. Meanwhile, the back end of the car will feature a redesigned lower bumper and updated taillights.
We strongly believe that the cosmetic changes are just a pretext for Peugeot to install its own engines under the hood of the Insignia, thus saving money. Which engines? We only need to look at the range for the Peugeot 508, a direct competitor. Its lineup is made up of small 1.2 gasoline and 1.5 diesel units, two versions of the 2-liter diesel and the 1.6 turbo with up to 225 HP. Meanwhile, the Insignia mostly relies on Opel's 2.0-liter diesels. This prototype has two mufflers hidden away, so it's probably quite powerful.
Since the link between the two companies is so new, we don't know how much technology will trickle down during these facelifts. Peugeot makes some of the coolest interiors of any mainstream European automaker, but updating the Insignia's dashboard may prove unreasonably costly.
mini_cooper4
Autotechnik Ace
- Messages
- 5,777
They are everywhere here for quite some time now.
Similar threads
Opel
Opel Automobile GmbH, is a German automobile manufacturer based in Rüsselsheim am Main, Hesse, Germany.
Founded by Adam Opel in 1862, it was owned by General Motors from 1929 to 2017, and the PSA Group before
merging with Fiat Chrysler Automobiles to form Stellantis in 2021. Most of its lineup is marketed under
the Vauxhall Motors brand in the United Kingdom since the 1980s. In Australia, some were rebadged as the
Holden brand until 2020, in North America and China under the Buick, Saturn (until 2010), and Cadillac
brands, and in South America under the Chevrolet brand.
Official websites: Opel, Vauxhall
Official websites: Opel, Vauxhall
