Buying, Owning & Improving
Ian Cushway searches out new and used parts prices
The value-packed Insignia Mk1 is so much better than you’d dare imagine.
Introduced here in late 2008, the first-generation Insignia took on the Vectra mantle and smashed it, basically, offering more comfort, a better range of engines and stacks of extra room inside.
The line-up initially included a saloon, five-door ‘liftback’ and family-friendly estate with a choice of four petrol engines and three diesels, the latter of which were all derived from the tried and tested 2.0-litre Fiat/GM JTD unit.
A major revamp in mid-2013 gave the Insignia a larger grille and revised LED headlights, a fresh new interior and a range of more efficient engines before the model was replaced altogether by the second-generation car in 2017.
That’s it in a nutshell, so what’s it like? In short, superb – and conceivably a lot better than its otherwise workaday Vauxhall origins would suggest. In fact, as a comfy, value-packed all-rounder, it pretty much outshines its other family car rivals. It feels refined, drives nicely and easily has enough space inside to accommodate five adults. Boot size is generous, too; there’s 530-litres available in the hatch with all the seats upright and 1470-litres with them lowered. Looks-wise, it’s also a strong contender; its sharp lines made even more attractive after the 2013 facelift.
All this explains why the Insignia has deservedly gained so many accolades, including 2009 Car Of The Year, pipping cars like VW’s Golf and the Ford Fiesta no less. Moreover, it’s not expensive to run – especially if you opt for one of the talented diesels and spares, though surprisingly pricey at a Vauxhall dealer, are inexpensive if you shop at an independent.
Which model?
Spec-wise, none of the trim offerings will disappoint. Design was the entry car, followed by the SE which added 17in alloys, then there was the Limited Edition which got things like parking sensors and more sporty 18in alloys. The SRi and VX-Line were the sportier models. The flagship Elite has dual-zone climate control, electric folding door mirrors and a variety of option packs included.
Don’t get too hung up on trim levels, though because lots of entry Insignias were specced up so no two are the same. Sat-nav (Nav) is worthwhile because the touchpad is useful, and you also get Apple CarPlay connectivity built-in. Another desirable option is the 8in TFT instrument cluster which replaced the analogue dials which makes the interior suddenly look a feel a lot more modern than it really is.
Diesel Insignias make the most sense, although as we’ve hinted at already, the pokey 1.4 turbo petrol model might be of interest if you do lower mileages or lots of stop-start driving. Try to
