Used Vauxhall Insignia Review (2009-2017) MK1
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Affordable
- Reliable
- Well-equipped
- Petrol engines could be more efficient
- Not the most comfortable in its class
- Rivals are more desirable
What's the Vauxhall Insignia like?
There have been a wide range of models and engines available in the Vauxhall Insignia range.
The Insignia is still a great looking car and the darling of many fleet buyers, because, like many Vauxhall cars, it’s so affordable to buy and maintain.
But that’s also good for anyone buying a used Insignia, because it means prices are often much lower than the competition.
Engines
Since 2009, petrol power in the Vauxhall Insignia has come from a 1.4-litre turbo with 138bhp, a 1.6-litre turbo with 177bhp a 1.8-litre with 138bhp, and a 2.0-litre turbo with 216bhp or 246bhp.
Diesels are a ‘Whisper’ 1.6-litre with 134bhp and a 2.0-litre with power ranging from 118bhp to 170bhp. There's also a bi-turbo with 195bhp.
The engines are smooth and quiet and well up with the competition. The petrol units sound marvellous when pressed and are still reasonably economical, but there are many more diesels to choose from.
Best buy is the 1.6-litre ‘Whisper’ diesel, which comes with very low emissions and a government economy figure of 74mpg.
Equipment
The Insignia makes an excellent used buy because it's well-equipped and proves very reliable.
Peter Hayward
A large screen gives details of most functions, but is very complicated to operate until 2013, when it was improved dramatically.
Business favourite Tech Line trim includes sat nav, climate control, and alloys, along with multi-function steering wheel, electric driver’s seat, traction control, cruise control, and alarm.
Driving Experience and Practicality
It’s a great car for the enthusiastic driver, even when powered by the smaller engines, because they all bring good to excellent performance along with sure-footed handling and excellent grip and road holding.
The boot is big enough to swallow luggage for four, and they all have plenty of space inside.
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Find your Vauxhall Insignia your way with CarStore
If you're looking for an accomplished executive car that offers a refined drive, then the Insignia won't disappoint. With attractive levels of equipment as standard, a great amount of interior space, and unmatched comfortability, the Insignia is an excellent used car that's somewhat of a bargain buy.
