Opel Insignia

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Opel Insignia
Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 1.5 DIT Innovation (B) - Frontansicht, 12. Mai 2017, Dusseldorf.jpg
Overview
Manufacturer Opel [lower-alpha 1]
Also called
Production2008–2022 [1]
Model years 2009–2022 (Europe)
2009–2022 (United Kingdom)
2011–2020 (North America)
2018–present (China)
2018–2020 (Australia & New Zealand)
Body and chassis
Class Large family car (D)
Layout Front-engine, front-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive
Chronology
Predecessor

The Opel Insignia is a large family car (D-segment in Europe) developed and produced by the German car manufacturer 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. [2] Currently in its second generation, the model line is offered in four-door sedan/saloon body styles, five-door liftback, and as a five-door station wagon/estate.

Contents

Sold worldwide, the Insignia is marketed under multiple nameplates. Under Opel tradition, the model line is marketed by Vauxhall in the United Kingdom, taking on the Vauxhall Insignia name. Both generations of the model line have been marketed in Latin America and North America as the Buick Regal [3] [4] (sales of the Regal continue in China [5] ). GM Australia marketed the second-generation Insignia as the Holden Commodore through 2020 (until discontinuing both the model line and the Holden brand).

The launch vehicle of the GM Epsilon II platform, Opel produces the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia in Adam Opel AG Werk Rüsselsheim in Rüsselsheim, Germany. SAIC-GM produces the Buick Regal in Shanghai, China (exclusively for the Chinese market). In the UK, the Vauxhall Insignia bid farewell as the model was retired in 2022. The Insignia will return with a new look in 2025.

History

In December 2006, Vauxhall stated they would retire the Vectra nameplate from the previous model. Then General Motors Europe president, Carl-Peter Forster, explained that the all new car would be "a radical departure" from the current model and that the "Vectra" name would be dropped to reflect this change. [6] In late 2007, Vauxhall confirmed that the successor's name would be Insignia. [7]

With the Insignia, Opel planned to regain some of the market share that the executive Omega once occupied during its production. [8]

First generation (G09; 2008)

Opel Insignia A
Opel Insignia 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI Sport OPC Line-Paket - Frontansicht, 3. April 2012, Velbert.jpg
Overview
Model code G09
Also called
  • Vauxhall Insignia (United Kingdom)
  • Holden Insignia (Australia and New Zealand)
  • Buick Regal (North America and China)
  • Chevrolet Vectra (South America)
ProductionOctober 2008 – April 2017
Assembly
Designer Mark Adams and Malcolm Ward [9] [10]
Body and chassis
Body style
Platform GM Epsilon II SWB
Related Chevrolet Malibu
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission 6-speed manual
6-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,737 mm (107.8 in)
Length4,830 mm (190.2 in)
4,908 mm (193.2 in) (wagon)
Width1,856 mm (73.1 in)
Height1,498 mm (59.0 in)
Curb weight 1,470–1,610 kg (3,240–3,550 lb)

The Insignia debuted as the Vauxhall Insignia at the 2008 British International Motor Show in London on 23 July. [11] It then went on sale in European dealerships in October 2008 for the 2009 model year as a five-door liftback and five-door estate dubbed Sports Tourer – a departure for Opel which traditionally used the "Caravan" name to denote the estate bodystyle. It was the first production car to be based on the Epsilon II platform, which was also used on other models such as the 2010 Saab 9-5 and the Chevrolet Malibu.

Design wise, the Insignia offers 30 mm (1.2 in) more knee room than the Vectra. The saloon and liftback variants have the same 4.83 m (190.2 in) length and wheelbase of 2.73 m (107.5 in). The estate version is slightly longer at 4.91 m (193.3 in) on the same wheelbase.

The Insignia was the first car to debut redesigned badges for both the Opel and Vauxhall brands. For Vauxhall, it was the first car to dispense with the characteristic "V" grille that has adorned Vauxhall models since 1994, which differentiated them from the otherwise identical Opel models.

The Insignia was also the first Opel to debut many new and improved safety features, including:

At speeds above 60 km/h (37 mph), Opel Eye warns the driver if the car is about to veer inadvertently out of the lane in which it is travelling. The system can detect road markings and, if they are sufficiently distinct, unmarked road edges. The Insignia was the first production car to feature a dual function frontal camera with traffic sign recognition.

Pre-facelift

Markets

OPC

In early 2009, Opel revealed the Insignia OPC, a high performance variant of the Insignia. [12] Like the preceding Vectra OPC, it is powered by a 2.8 litre turbocharged V6 (Manufactured in Melbourne, Australia). [12] [13]

The updated engine makes 239 kW (325 PS; 321 hp) and 435 N⋅m (321 lb⋅ft). Of this 435, 400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) are available from 2,000 rpm. [14] It is paired with a six speed manual transmission / six-speed automatic transmission and Saab's (Haldex) active all wheel drive system. The Insignia OPC has a modified MacPherson strut front suspension called HiPerStrut which reduces torque steer.

Also standard is an electronic limited slip differential for the rear wheels and Opel's FlexRide adaptive suspension, which has three settings (OPC, Sport, and Normal). An OPC version of the Insignia Sports Tourer wagon was also unveiled. In April 2011, Opel launched the Insignia OPC Unlimited, with no speed limiter. [15]

Country Tourer

The Opel Insignia Country Tourer made its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September 2013 as a crossover-styled station wagon.

Facelift

A major facelift was introduced in June 2013, with new exterior and interior styling, new engines, and new safety features. The car officially premiered at the September 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, before going on sale later in 2013.

The new design includes a newly designed cockpit with a simplified control panel and two eight inch colour displays, a four way infotainment system via new a touchpad in the centre console, an eight-inch touchscreen, steering wheel controls, voice command, radar and camera based driver assistance and safety systems, such as full speed adaptive cruise control and imminent collision braking, rear camera, lane change assistance, blind spot alert, and rear cross traffic alert.

The second generation Insignia was revealed in December 2016, and was reported to be renamed Insignia Grand Sport.

Engines

2008–2013

From launch, the Insignia was offered with four petrol engines:

1.6 L115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp); 1.8 L140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp); 2.0 L Turbo 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp); 2.8 L V6 with 260 PS (191 kW; 256 hp) –

and three diesel engines (all derived from the Fiat/GM JTD engine), all displacing 2.0 litres:

2.0 L110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp); 2.0 L130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp); 2.0 L160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp).

In 2009, a 1.6 L Turbo petrol 180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp), the ecoFLEX diesels, and the OPC versions were introduced.

From September 2010, the 2.0 CDTi diesel engine gained Adaptive 4x4 as an option. A 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI developed with the help of Saab, with 195 PS (143 kW; 192 hp), was expected to begin production in 2010. Due to the sale of Saab, production was delayed until 2012. The BiTurbo CDTI was offered with front- or four-wheel drive. All engines have a six speed manual transmission as standard, with some engines having an automatic transmission as an option.

Since launch, all diesels have improved their emissions. In 2011, some engines gained Start/Stop, all diesel engines have this option, with more petrol engines expected to gain the technology in the future. A 1.4 Turbo 140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp), with S/S as standard, became available - replacing the 1.8 - and the 2.0 Turbo with four-wheel drive was upgraded to 250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp); the front-wheel drive 2.0 Turbo still had 220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp).

In 2009, a new range of ecoFLEX diesel engine offered same amount of power, but less CO2-emission (g/km) and fuel consumption. The 2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX with 130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) and 160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) have emission of only 114 CO2-emission (g/km), as well as a version with 2.0 CDTI 4x4. The 195 PS (143 kW; 192 hp) Bi turbo diesel engine has 129 CO2-emission (g/km).

Petrol engines
ModelEngineDisplacementPowerTorqueNote(s)Year(s)
1.4 Turbo S/S I4 1,364 cc140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 4,900–6000 rpm200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 1850–4,900 rpm2011–13
1.6 VVT I41,598 cc115 PS (85 kW; 113 hp) at 6,000 rpm155 N⋅m (114 lb⋅ft) at 4,000 rpm2008–12
1.6 Turbo I41,598 cc180 PS (132 kW; 178 hp) at 5,500 rpm230 N⋅m (170 lb⋅ft) at 2,200–5,500 rpm
1.8 VVT I41,796 cc140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 6,300 rpm175 N⋅m (129 lb⋅ft) at 3,800 rpm
2.0 Turbo I41,998 cc220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp) at 5,300 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 2,000-4000 rpmA20NHT (non-flex fuel version of A20NFT)2008–13
2.0 Turbo 4x4 I41,998 cc220 PS (162 kW; 217 hp) at 5,300 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 2,000-4000 rpm2008–11
2.0 Turbo 4x4 I41,998 cc250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp) at 5,300 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 2,400–3,600 rpm2011–13
2.8T 4x4 V6 2,792 cc260 PS (191 kW; 256 hp) at 5,500 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 1,900–4500 rpm2008–13
2.8T 4x4V62,792 cc325 PS (239 kW; 321 hp) at 5,500 rpm435 N⋅m (321 lb⋅ft) at 5,500 rpm OPC/VXR 2009–13
Diesel engines
ModelEngineDisplacementPowerTorqueNote(s)Year(s)
2.0 CDTI I4 1,956 cc110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp) at 4,000 rpm260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2500 rpmN/A in UK
2.0 CDTII41,956 cc130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) at 4,000 rpm300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2500 rpm
2.0 CDTII41,956 cc160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) at 4,000 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2500 rpm
2.0 CDTI 4x4I41,956 cc160 PS (118 kW; 158 hp) at 4,000 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2500 rpm2010–13
2.0 CDTI Bi-TurboI41,956 cc195 PS (143 kW; 192 hp) at 4,000 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2500 rpm2012–13
2.0 CDTI Bi-Turbo 4x4I41,956 cc195 PS (143 kW; 192 hp) at 4,000 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2500 rpm2012–13

2013–2017

Alongside the facelift of 2013 came a new range of engines – some existing, some tweaked, and some brand new. Diesel engines available at launch include the 2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX (also with Start/Stop), with outputs of 120 PS, 140 PS, and 163 PS and the existing 195 PS BiTurbo. There is also a non ecoFLEX engine with 130 PS which is only available with automatic transmission.

Petrol engines include the existing 1.4 Turbo and 1.8 (only on some markets), and the all new 1.6 SIDI Turbo engine introduced in the Cascada, and new 2.0 SIDI Turbo.

All engines come with a six speed manual gearbox as standard, with a six speed automatic available as an option on the 1.6 and 2.0 SIDI turbo petrol engines, and the 2.0 CDTI 163 PS and 195 PS diesel engines. All petrol and diesel engines have a Start/Stop system except the 2.0 CDTI with 130 PS.

In September 2014, Opel introduced its all new generation of engines – large diesel engine, starting with 2.0 CDTI engine with 170 PS and 400 Nm, which is a part of new strategy in which Opel will introduce 17 new engines in a period from 2014 to 2018. The new engine became available from the end of 2014/beginning of 2015. [16]

Petrol engines
ModelEngineDisplacementPowerTorqueNote(s)CO2 (g/km)Year(s)
1.4 Turbo S/S I4 1,362 cc140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 4,900–6000 rpm200 N⋅m (148 lb⋅ft) at 1850–4,900 rpm123
1.6 SIDI Turbo S/S I41,598 cc170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) at 4,250 rpm260 N⋅m (192 lb⋅ft) (overboost 280 N⋅m (207 lb⋅ft)) at 1,650–4,250 rpm139
1.8 VVT I41,796 cc140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 6,300 rpm175 N⋅m (129 lb⋅ft) at 3,800 rpm164
2.0 SIDI Turbo S/S I41,998 cc250 PS (184 kW; 247 hp) at 4,500 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 2,000–4,500 rpmA20NFT (used in Astra J GTC VXR/OPC)169
Diesel engines
ModelEngineDisplacementPowerTorqueNote(s)CO2 (g/km)Year(s)
1.6 CDTI I4 1,598 cc120 PS (88 kW; 118 hp) at 4,000 rpm320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm109-1042015–17
1.6 CDTI I41,598 cc136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) at 4,000 rpm320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) at 2,000 rpm104-992015–17
2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX S/S I41,956 cc120 PS (88 kW; 118 hp) at 4,000 rpm300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) (overboost 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft)) at 1,750–2,500 rpm992013–15
2.0 CDTI I41,956 cc130 PS (96 kW; 128 hp) at 4,000 rpm300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) (overboost 320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft)) at 1,750–2,500 rpmOnly with AT 1192013–15
2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX S/S I41,956 cc140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 4,000 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) (overboost 370 N⋅m (273 lb⋅ft)) at 1,750–2,500 rpm992013–15
2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX S/S I41,956 cc163 PS (120 kW; 161 hp) at 4,000 rpm350 N⋅m (258 lb⋅ft) (overboost 380 N⋅m (280 lb⋅ft)) at 1,750–2,500 rpm1142013–15
2.0 CDTI ecoFLEX S/SI41,956 cc170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) at 4,000 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2,500 rpm1142014–17
2.0 CDTI Bi-Turbo ecoFLEX S/S I41,956 cc195 PS (143 kW; 192 hp) at 4,000 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2,500 rpm1252013–15

Awards

Since making its début, the Opel Insignia has won more than fifty national and international awards, including 'Best Executive Car' in the United Kingdom and Slovenia, 'Best Family Car' in Ireland twice, and best car for fleet customers in the United Kingdom, Austria, Denmark, and Portugal. [17]

Production and sales

Production started at the end of 2008 on all major markets in Europe. At launch, the Vauxhall versions were produced in Exclusiv, S, SE, SRi, Elite, and VXR specification levels. It was a popular choice with British buyers, being the nation's ninth best selling car in 2009 – its first full year on sale, outselling its direct competitor the Ford Mondeo, but just falling short of the sales achieved by the more upmarket BMW 3 Series. [22]

At the beginning several trim levels were available, depending on the market: Essentia, Edition, Sport, Cosmo, OPC. Later on others were added, such as the Business edition, Selection, Active, 150 years of Opel, and Innovation.

By August 2011, over 400,000 Insignias had been sold, and on 26 April 2012, the 500,000th Insignia was produced. [23] The last vehicle rolled off the line in April 2017, in time for the release of the Insignia II.

Second generation (Z18; 2017)

Opel Insignia B
Opel Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Diesel Business Innovation (B) - Frontansicht, 5. Mai 2017, Dusseldorf.jpg
Overview
Model code Z18
Also calledVauxhall Insignia (United Kingdom)
Buick Regal (North America and China)
Holden Commodore (ZB) (Australia and New Zealand)
Production2017–present (China)
2017–2022 (other markets) [24]
Model years 2018–2020 (North America & Oceania)
AssemblyGermany: Rüsselsheim
China: Shanghai (SAIC-GM)
Designer Niels Loeb [25] [26]
Body and chassis
Body style
Platform E2XX platform
Related Chevrolet Malibu
Cadillac XT4
Powertrain
Engine
Transmission
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,829 mm (111.4 in)
Length4,897 mm (192.8 in)
4,986 mm (196.3 in) (wagon)
Width1,864 mm (73.4 in)
Height1,455 mm (57.3 in)
Curb weight 1,440–1,649 kg (3,175–3,635 lb)

First leaked to the public in December 2016, [27] the Insignia had its public debut at the International Motor Fair in Belgrade in March 2017. The design took cues from the 2013 Opel Monza Concept. From this point, the traditional four-door notchback saloon version was officially removed from the lineup. The vehicle was officially revealed on 26 June 2017.[ clarification needed ]

The car is based on a moderately updated version of Epsilon II platform and was wholly developed by General Motors. [28] After the sale of Opel to PSA Group and later Stellantis, it is continued to be produced under license. [29]

Opel dropped the OPC designation for its performance Insignia, instead reverting to their older GSi nameplate, last seen on the second generation Opel Vectra. The GSi nameplate also replaces VXR, on the Vauxhall version of the Insignia. This version of the Insignia is badged as the Holden Commodore ZB in Australia and New Zealand, and as the sixth generation Buick Regal in the Americas and Asia.

After a 2020 facelift, only the 2-liter four-cylinder petrol engine remained available in Europe, while a new 1.5-liter three-cylinder and a 2.0-liter four cylinder diesel replaced the earlier 1.6 and 2.0.

In 2022, Vauxhall discontinued the Insignia from their model range as the result of the brand would moving towards a fully electric lineup and the decline of the D-segment in Europe which also lead to the discontinuation of the Ford Mondeo and the saloon version of the Volkswagen Passat. [30] [31]

Opel also ended production of the Opel Insignia in 2022. PSA later reversed course and said that the Insignia nameplate will be resurrected as a crossover SUV in 2024 for both Opel and Vauxhall brands. [32]

Under Stellantis' corporate umbrella, the Citroën C5 X and the DS 9 now cover the D/E segments in Europe.[ citation needed ]

GSi

Facelift (2020)

Engines

Petrol engines
ModelEngineDisplacementPowerTorqueNote(s)CO2 (g/km)Year(s)
1.5 SIDI Turbo S/S I4 1,490 cc140 PS (103 kW; 138 hp) at 5,600 rpm250 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft) at 2,000-4,500 rpm1332017–
1.5 SIDI Turbo S/S I41,490 cc165 PS (121 kW; 163 hp) at 5,600 rpm250 N⋅m (184 lb⋅ft) at 2,000–4,500 rpm1362017–
2.0 SIDI Turbo S/S I41,998 cc260 PS (191 kW; 256 hp) at 5,300 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 2,500–4,000 rpmHolden Commodores only boast 350Nm, in order to ensure V6 remains flagship engine1972017–
3.6 SIDI LGX V6 3,564 cc320 PS (235 kW; 316 hp) at 6,800 rpm381 N⋅m (281 lb⋅ft) at 5,200 rpmAvailable only on Holden Commodore (all versions) and Buick Regal GS2152018–
Diesel engines
ModelEngineDisplacementPowerTorqueNote(s)CO2 (g/km)Year(s)
1.5 CDTI S/S I3 1,496 cc122 PS (90 kW; 120 hp) at 3,500 rpm300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) at 1,750-2,000 rpm1052020–
1.6 CDTI S/S I4 1,598 cc110 PS (81 kW; 108 hp) at 3,500 rpm300 N⋅m (221 lb⋅ft) at 1,750-2,000 rpm1052017–
1.6 CDTI S/S I41,598 cc136 PS (100 kW; 134 hp) at 3,500-4,000 rpm320 N⋅m (236 lb⋅ft) at 2,000-2,250 rpm1142017–
2.0 CDTI S/SI41,956 cc170 PS (125 kW; 168 hp) at 3,750 rpm400 N⋅m (295 lb⋅ft) at 1,750–2,500 rpm1362017–
2.0 CDTI BiTurbo S/S 4x4I41,956 cc210 PS (154 kW; 207 hp) at 4,000 rpm480 N⋅m (354 lb⋅ft) at TBC1902017–

Holden Commodore (ZB)

Commodore LT liftback 2018 Holden Commodore (ZB MY18) LT sedan (2018-08-06) 01a.jpg
Commodore LT liftback
2018 Holden Commodore (ZB MY18) LT sedan (2018-08-06) 02.jpg
Commodore LT liftback
2018 Holden Commodore (ZB MY18) LT Tourer (2018-10-25).jpg
Commodore LT Sportwagon

In 2017, Holden announced that the Commodore would end production in Australia and confirmed that the Commodore badge would be inherited by its replacement - now fully imported. This decision was made on the basis of a survey revealing that a majority of customers were in favour of retaining the long-standing Australian badge introduced in 1978.

The ZB Commodore was revealed on the 6 December 2016 as a rebadged version of the Opel Insignia B. The ZB Commodore was offered with four or six-cylinder engine options, coupled with front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive. This was a major departure from the V8 and rear wheel drive variants available on the previous generation Commodore.

There was significant controversy regarding Holden's decision to retain the Commodore name for the 2018 model, despite it being dimensionally smaller than its predecessor, lacking a V8 engine option, and switching from a RWD to a FWD drivetrain. Whilst the decision has been considered to be a safe choice in order to preserve sales, the retention of the Commodore name has been critiqued for Holden missing the opportunity to rebrand its sedan range and push its offering into the more lucrative semi-premium end of the market.

As of April 2018, the ZB Commodore has the lowest resale value as a proportion of new price of any car on the Australian market. [33]

Due to slow sales and Holden's interest in other vehicle segments, it was announced on 10 December 2019 that the ZB Commodore would be discontinued in early 2020, shortly before GM's decision to retire the Holden brand entirely. [34] [35]

Buick Regal

2023 Buick Regal (China; second facelift) BUICK REGAL SIXTH GENERATION (OPEL INSIGNIA B) China (13).jpg
2023 Buick Regal (China; second facelift)

In July 2023, the Buick Regal was facelifted exclusively for the Chinese market, featuring the updated triple shield logo among the changes. [36] [37]

Motorsport

The Vauxhall Insignia VXR-R of John Thorne competing in the 2012 British Touring Car Championship John Thorne driving, Brands Hatch, Mar 2012.jpg
The Vauxhall Insignia VXR-R of John Thorne competing in the 2012 British Touring Car Championship

The Thorney Motorsport team first ran a Vauxhall Insignia VXR in the last round of the 2011 British Touring Car Championship to prepare a two car team for the season of 2012. [38]

Only one car was run in four rounds – 1 and 2 driven by John Thorne, and 6 and 9 driven by Tony Gilham. Tony's Team HARD bought the two Insignias from Thorney Motorsport, [39] and raced one of them himself in the last round of the 2012 season.

Driving both cars for the season of 2013 were James Cole and Jack Goff, running under the RCIB Insurance Racing team name. RCIB Insurance Racing/Team Hard sold the cars to BMR for the 2014 BTCC season, and would be driven by Jack Goff and Warren Scott. The Insignia was not as competitive as hoped and the cars were replaced mid season with Volkswagen CCs.

Other rebranding

In Chile, the Insignia was introduced in 2008 as the Chevrolet Vectra. [40] In 2013, the model line dropped its Chevrolet name, adopting the Opel Insignia nameplate.

In August 2012, the Opel Insignia was introduced to Australia; following the 2013 withdrawal of Opel from Australia by GM, the model line was dropped from the market. [41] [42] For 2015, the Insignia returned to Australia (and for the first time, New Zealand) under the Holden marque, slotted slightly under the Commodore range in market position.

2003 Insignia concept

2003 Insignia Concept
Opel Insignia Concept 2003.jpg
Overview
Manufacturer Opel
Production2003 (Concept car)
Designer
  • Mark Adams
  • Malcolm Ward
Body and chassis
Class Luxury car
Body style 5-door liftback/fastback
Layout FR layout [43]
Platform GM V platform [43]
Powertrain
Engine 5.7 L LS1 V8
Transmission 7-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase 2,915 mm (114.8 in)
Length4,803 mm (189.1 in)
Width1,914 mm (75.4 in)
Height1,414 mm (55.7 in)
Chronology
Successor Buick Avenir

The Opel Insignia nameplate saw its first use on a 2003 concept car. For the 2003 Frankfurt Motor Show, [44] Opel debuted a concept car previewing a potential mid-2000s full-size luxury car (F-segment) for the brand. [45]

Derived from the rear-wheel drive GM V platform used by the VY Holden Commodore and Statesman, [46] the Opel Insignia concept vehicle was styled as a fastback 5-door liftback. [47] The engine was sourced from the Chevrolet Corvette C5, pairing a 344 hp LS1 V8 with an all-new 7-speed automatic transmission. [46]

The Insignia debuted several notable features, including a reconfigurable rear seat (changing between 5-passenger seating and a 2+2 layout with a rear center console [44] [46] ), LED headlamps (powered by 405 LEDs [44] ), a reconfigurable dashboard and center console (with air-conditioned storage and humidor [46] ). The rear sliding doors were fitted with pantographic hinges, allowing for the deletion of external guide rails. [45]

Intended primarily as a debut of the design language of the Opel brand for the mid-2000s, the Insignia was not officially intended for production. [45] In the beginning of 2005, Opel stated that it would not build a production version of the vehicle, claiming it would be too heavy and expensive. Elements of the Insignia concept design were eventually adopted by other GM vehicles, including the 2015 Buick Avenir concept (sharing a similar fastback/4-door coupe configuration) and the 2008-2017 Opel Insignia/Buick Regal (rear fascia) and the 2010-2016 Buick LaCrosse (roofline); its liftback configuration was adopted by the 2018 Insignia/Regal/Commodore.

Notes

  1. ↑

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    The Opel Astra is a compact car/small family car (C-segment) developed and produced by the German automaker Opel since 1991, currently at its sixth generation. It was first launched in September 1991 as a direct replacement to the Opel Kadett. As of 2021, the car slots between the smaller Corsa supermini and the larger Insignia large family car.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Holden Astra</span> Motor vehicle

    The Holden Astra is a small car formerly marketed by Holden. The first couple of generations of Astra were made only for Australia, and was a derivative of the locally produced Nissan Pulsar. With the Button car plan coming into effect, it was replaced by the Holden Nova, a rebadged Toyota Corolla.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Vectra</span> Compact executive car manufactured by Opel

    The Opel Vectra is a mid-size car that was engineered and produced by the German automaker Opel from 1988 until 2010. Available in saloon, hatchback and estate body styles, the Vectra was also sold by the Vauxhall marque in the United Kingdom as the Vauxhall Cavalier from 1988 to 1995 and then as the Vauxhall Vectra from 1995 to 2008, and it was also sold by Holden in Australia as the Holden Vectra, by Chevrolet in Latin America as the Chevrolet Vectra.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Vauxhall Cavalier</span> Car model

    The Vauxhall Cavalier is a large family car that was sold primarily in the United Kingdom by Vauxhall from 1975 to 1995. It was based on a succession of Opel designs throughout its production life, during which it was built in three incarnations. The first generation of Cavalier, launched in 1975 and produced until 1981, was Vauxhall's version of the General Motors 'U-Car' - essentially an Opel Ascona B/ Opel Manta with a few minor visual differences.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Zafira</span> Multi-purpose vehicle

    The Opel Zafira is a car manufactured and marketed across three generations between 1999 and 2019 by Opel. Based on the Opel Astra platform, it is developed to occupy the multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) segment.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Omega</span> Large family car engineered and manufactured by Opel

    The Opel Omega is an executive car engineered and manufactured by German automaker Opel between 1986 and 2004. The first generation, the Omega A (1986–1994), superseded the Opel Rekord. It was voted European Car of the Year for 1987, and was available as a saloon or estate. The second generation, the Omega B, was manufactured from 1994 to 2004.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Buick Regal</span> Mid-sized car model

    The Buick Regal is a line of mid-size cars marketed by Buick since 1973. For nearly its entire production, the Regal has served as the premium mid-size/intermediate offering of the Buick product range. Introduced as a submodel of the Buick Century, the model line is currently in its sixth generation. From the 1970s to the 1990s, the Regal served as the Buick counterpart of the Pontiac Grand Prix and Oldsmobile Cutlass Supreme.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">General Motors Epsilon platform</span> Motor vehicle platform

    Epsilon is General Motors' mid-size front-wheel drive automobile platform. The architecture was a multi-division project of GM North America, Opel and Saab, and debuted in the 2002 Opel Vectra and 2003 Saab 9-3. Since this platform falls squarely in the center of the worldwide automobile market, GM plans to produce a great many Epsilon vehicles with over a dozen variations. As of 2005, it was GM's highest volume worldwide platform. Even after the dissolution of the GM/Fiat partnership, both companies retain the rights to continue developing Epsilon-derived models.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Rekord</span> Motor vehicle

    The Opel Rekord is a large family car which was built in eight generations by the German car manufacturer Opel. Between 1953 and 1986, approximately ten million were sold.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Meriva</span> Motor vehicle

    The Opel Meriva is a car manufactured and marketed by the German automaker Opel on its Corsa platform, from May 2003 until June 2017 across two generations. Described as a mini MPV, it was marketed as the Vauxhall Meriva in the United Kingdom, while in Latin America, the first generation model was marketed as the Chevrolet Meriva.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">VXR</span>

    VXR is the branding for the high performance trim specification, used since 2004 for models in many of Vauxhall's car range in the United Kingdom. Holden has also used the VXR badge for some of its high-performance cars such as the Astra VXR, Insignia VXR, and the Commodore VXR.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Performance Center</span>

    Opel Performance Center (OPC) was a division of the German automobile manufacturer Opel, initially set up as a subsidiary in 1997. The main focus of OPC is the development of performance derivatives of the Opel range, such as the hot hatch Corsa OPC and Astra OPC.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">GM Family II engine</span> Reciprocating internal combustion engine

    The Family II is a straight-4 piston engine that was originally developed by Opel in the 1970s, debuting in 1981. Available in a wide range of cubic capacities ranging from 1598 to 2405 cc, it simultaneously replaced the Opel CIH and Vauxhall Slant-4 engines, and was GM Europe's core mid-sized powerplant design for much of the 1980s, and provided the basis for the later Ecotec series of engines in the 1990s.

    General Motors New Zealand Limited, formerly Holden New Zealand Limited, is a subsidiary of General Motors that distributes GM' motor vehicles, engines, components and parts in New Zealand.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Corsa</span> Supermini car manufactured by Opel

    The Opel Corsa is a supermini car manufactured and marketed by Opel since 1982 — as well as other General Motors' brands, namely Vauxhall, Chevrolet, and Holden.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Mokka</span> Crossover SUV

    The Opel Mokka is a subcompact crossover SUV that has been produced by German automaker Opel since 2012. Sales began with the model year of 2013, at the end of 2012. The first generation was developed by GM Korea as the U200 Chevrolet Trax. The facelifted Opel Mokka was marketed as the Mokka X, before reverting to Mokka for the second generation. It is also sold under the Vauxhall brand in the United Kingdom. The Buick Encore sold in North America and in China was also derived from the Trax but the lines diverged after Opel became part of Stellantis.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Opel Cascada</span> Motor vehicle

    The Opel Cascada is a four-passenger fabric-roof convertible, manufactured and marketed by Opel across a single generation for model years 2013-2019, prioritizing year-round touring comfort over sportiness.

    <span class="mw-page-title-main">Holden Commodore (ZB)</span> Full-sized Australian car

    The Holden Commodore (ZB) is the final generation of the Holden Commodore range produced by now-defunct Australian brand Holden from 2018 to 2020.

    References

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    3. ↑ Aziz, Nick (20 July 2009). "Confirmed: Buick Regal coming to America in late 2010". Leftlane. Archived from the original on 5 November 2011. Retrieved 21 August 2009.
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    25. ↑ US D847028,Loeb, Niels,"Vehicle, toy replica, and/or other replica",published 2019-04-30, assigned to GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    26. ↑ US D846448,Loeb, Niels,"Vehicle, toy replica, and/or other replica",published 2019-04-23, assigned to GM Global Technology Operations LLC
    27. ↑ "2017 Opel Insignia official reveal hits tomorrow".
    28. ↑ "2017 Vauxhall Insignia Grand Sport to be brand's flagship model (7 November 2016)". Autocar. Retrieved 16 April 2021.
    29. ↑ Niculescu, Aurel (15 September 2020). "Vestigial 2021 Opel Insignia Now in Production, Prices Kick Off at €29,965". autoevolution. Retrieved 13 October 2021.
    30. ↑ "Vauxhall drops Insignia from UK line-up". Fleet News UK.
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    32. ↑ "Vauxhall Insignia to be reborn as SUV in 2024". Auto Express.
    33. ↑ Mckinnon, Bill (14 April 2018). "Holden ZB Commodore RS V6 Liftback review: A Holden in name only" . The Australian. Retrieved 25 April 2018.
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    35. ↑ "Holden axes Commodore range to focus on SUVs and utes as sedan sales dwindle". Australia: ABC News. 10 December 2019. Retrieved 10 December 2019.
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    37. ↑ "2024 Buick Regal Goes Official, Tries To Teach An Old Dog New Tricks". Motor1.com. 28 July 2023.
    38. ↑ Turner, Kevin (11 April 2011). "New BTCC team to run Insignias". Autosport. Retrieved 12 April 2011.
    39. ↑ Chalcraft, Jodie (16 October 2012). "Two Vauxhall Insignias for Team Hard in 2013". Btcccrazy.co.uk. Retrieved 14 December 2013.
    40. ↑ "Multiplicación de novedades". El Mercurio (in Spanish). 18 October 2008. Archived from the original on 26 February 2009. Retrieved 4 November 2008.
    41. ↑ Flynn, Malcolm (1 August 2012). "2013 Opel Insignia On Sale In Australia". Themotorreport.com.au. Retrieved 14 December 2013.
    42. ↑ Dowling, Joshua (2 August 2013). "Opel abandons Australian arm after less than a year after poor sales". News.com.au. Archived from the original on 5 November 2013. Retrieved 14 December 2013.
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    47. ↑ "Opel Insignia Concept". 14 April 2022.
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