Opel Insignia
Large classic sedan: Until recently, the Opel Insignia occupied this role in the Rüsselsheim model range.
(Photo: dpa)
In terms of pure length, the Insignia was most recently Opel’s largest model, the flagship – it was discontinued at the end of 2022. The prices for used cars are reasonable. In the main vehicle inspection (HU), the model from Rüsselsheim recently delivered “no brilliant performance”, as the “Auto Bild Tüv-Report 2023” writes.
Model history: Longer and heavier than its predecessor, the Vectra, Opel brought the mid-range model Insignia onto the market in 2008, as a first edition with the additional designation “A” typical of the manufacturer.
In 2013 there was a facelift with a revised front and rear end as well as LED technology for the rear light and changes on the inside – from new engines to optimized infotainment.
The Insignia B came in 2017, lengthened again, but thanks to lightweight construction it weighed 200 kilos. Its facelift – especially optical retouching on the outside – was carried out for the 2020 model year. Production ended in 2022.
Body and variants: The Insignia B was built as a hatchback (Grand Sport) and station wagon (Sports Tourer). The predecessor A was also available as a notchback.
The higher version Country Tourer was launched as a variant of the station wagon from both generations. It was there until the last facelift. For sporty drivers: Only the first edition is also available as an OPC with 239 kW/325 hp from a V6 turbo.
Dimensions (according to ADAC): Insignia B: 4.90 to 5.00 m x 1.86 m to 1.87 m x 1.46 m to 1.53 m (LxWxH); Trunk volume: 490 l to 1450 l (estate: 560 l to 1665 l); Insignia A: 4.83m to 4.92m x 1.86m to 1.87m x 1.50m to 1.53m (LxWxH); Trunk volume: 480 l to 1465 l (estate: 540 l to 1530 l).
Strengths: The Insignia is a smooth glider, which is also due to the good seating comfort. The TÜV report of the second edition attests technical advances in the springs and dampers.
In general, defects in the axle suspension are rare, the drive shafts are solid. The turn signals remain unobtrusive, as does the effect of the parking brake and foot brake. Brake lines last a long time.
Weaknesses: The first edition has weak springs and dampers, the complaint rate is twice as high as the average. From the third HU, the Insignia A is also susceptible to front and rear lighting, and the brake hoses wear out as the vehicle ages.
Both generations are plagued by high oil loss, vulnerable exhaust systems and problems with passing the emissions test. Brake discs that are worn early on the first inspection date are just a quirk of the newer Opel.
Breakdown behavior: The ADAC states the Insignia: “One of the problem vehicles”. In the breakdown statistics kept by the club, at most specimens from the first registration year 2009 reach midfield, many others end up in the lower midfield, models from 2015 to 2018 even in bad places.
The club cites exhaust gas recirculation (2009 and 2010) and the drive belts (2010 and 2011) as the main areas of failure. Defects related to the turbocharger (2015 to 2018) are common, as are general engine problems (2009 to 2011). The battery (2010 and 2013, 2015 to 2020) also gives plenty of reason for breakdowns.
Engines: Insignia A: petrol (four- and six-cylinder, front and four-wheel drive): 85 kW/115 hp to 239 kW/325 hp; Diesel (three and four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 81 kW/110 hp to 143 kW/195 hp; Autogas (LPG): 103 kW/140 hp.
Insignia B: petrol engine (four-cylinder, front and all-wheel drive): 103 kW/140 hp to 191 kW/260 hp; Diesel (three and four-cylinder, front-wheel drive): 81 kW/110 hp to 154 kW/210 hp.
Market prices (according to “DAT Marktspiegel” by Deutsche Automobil Treuhand with statistically expected kilometers):
– Insignia Saloon 1.4 Turbo ecoFlex Business Edition (2017); 103 kW/140 hp (four-cylinder); 87,000 kilometers; 14,250 euros.
– Insignia Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo LPG ecoFlex Selection (2016); 103 kW/140 hp (four-cylinder); 99,000 kilometers; 11,250 euros. – Insignia 1.5 Diesel (2020); 90 kW/122 hp (three-cylinder); 68,000 kilometers; 15,900 euros.
More: Small, chic and expensive – the Audi Q2 can do that as a used vehicle