First details and images of the new Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer estate have been revealed ahead of its public debut at the Geneva motor show in March.
The new car is up to 200kg lighter than its predecessor, despite an overall increase in length, while the boot has grown by over 100 litres and now offers 1,640 litres of loadspace. The tailgate comes with hands-free operation, which works by waving the driver’s foot below the rear bumper if, for instance, their hands are full with shopping, while the car also comes with keyless entry and go.
Overall inside, there’s a considerable increase in room available compared to the previous iteration. This is largely thanks to a significant wheelbase increase, while the front overhangs are considerably shorter too. There’s 31mm more headroom, 25mm more shoulder room and 27mm more hip room. To give an extra impression of space inside, a panoramic glass sun roof will be available as an option.
Styling wise, it’s unchanged at the front from the GTC hatch that’s already been revealed, while at the back it benefits from protruding LED rear lights, while silver roof rails also help differentiate it from the hatch.
Engines have yet to be confirmed, although we expect the new car to come with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, with 1.6 and 2.0-litre diesels being the most popular, especially with fleet buyers. Six-speed manual gearboxes are likely to be standard fitment, with a new eight-speed automatic transmission available as an option. Those who want more grip in the corners will be able to specify a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive system.
That significant reduction in weight should lead to a considerable improvement in terms of fuel economy and CO2 emissions over the current model, thereby keeping BIK costs to a minimum.
As well as a significant increase in the amount of space available, the new car will also come with an upgraded OnStar concierge service, which will now offer a hotel room booking service. The new Insignia Sports Tourer will also come with the latest generation of Vauxhall’s IntelliLink touchscreen infotainment system, which includes Apple CarPlay and NAdroid Auto connectivity.
Safety kit includes a new active aluminium bonnet that helps protect pedestrians in case of a collision and adaptive LED Matrix headlights, which adjust their beam to avoid dazzling other road users. Meanwhile, Lane Keep Assist is also available, alongside adaptive cruise control and rear cross traffic alert. Buyers will also be able to specify a head-up display, as well as heated front and rear seats.
Prices have yet to be announced, but orders will open this month – before even the car has been revealed at Geneva, with deliveries starting in the summer. Its key rivals will be the Insignia’s old enemy, the Ford Mondeo Estate, as well as the likes of the Skoda Superb Estate and the Volkswagen Passat Estate.