Review: 2020 Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport (facelift 2020) 1.5 Turbo D (122 Hp) Automatic

The 2020 Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport is a stylish and practical liftback that has been designed to cater to a wide range of drivers. Whether you're commuting in the city, embarking on long road trips, or simply need a reliable family car, the Insignia offers a blend of performance, comfort, and efficiency. In this review, we'll delve into the car's key features, performance metrics, and its suitability for different driving needs.

Understanding the Basics

Before we dive into the specifics, let's clarify some essential terms. The Vauxhall Insignia is a 'liftback,' which means it combines the sleek look of a sedan with the practicality of a hatchback. This design allows for a spacious trunk and easy access to the cargo area. The '1.5 Turbo D' refers to the engine type, a 1.5-liter diesel engine equipped with a turbocharger for enhanced power and efficiency. The '122 Hp' indicates the engine's horsepower, a measure of its power output. Lastly, 'Automatic' signifies that the car has an automatic transmission, which means it shifts gears on its own, making it easier to drive, especially in stop-and-go traffic.

Performance and Efficiency

The Vauxhall Insignia's 1.5 Turbo D engine delivers 122 horsepower at 3500 rpm and a torque of 285 Nm (210.21 lb.-ft.) between 1500 and 2750 rpm. This setup provides a balanced performance, suitable for both city driving and highway cruising. The car accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 11.5 seconds and can reach a top speed of 200 km/h (124.27 mph). While it may not be the fastest in its class, it offers a smooth and comfortable ride.

Fuel efficiency is a strong point for the Insignia, with a combined fuel consumption of 5-5.7 liters per 100 km (47.04 - 41.27 US mpg or 56.5 - 49.56 UK mpg). This makes it an economical choice for long-distance travel, reducing the frequency of fuel stops. The car meets the Euro 6d emission standard, ensuring it is environmentally friendly.

Space and Practicality

With a length of 4906 mm (193.15 in.) and a wheelbase of 2829 mm (111.38 in.), the Insignia offers ample interior space. It comfortably seats five passengers and provides a generous trunk space of 490 liters (17.3 cu. ft.), expandable to 1450 liters (51.21 cu. ft.) with the rear seats folded down. This makes it ideal for families or those who frequently carry large loads.

The car's towing capacity is also noteworthy, with a maximum trailer load of 1500 kg (3306.93 lbs.) with brakes, making it suitable for towing small trailers or caravans.

Driving Experience and Features

The Insignia's front-wheel-drive system, combined with an 8-speed automatic transmission, ensures a smooth and responsive driving experience. The independent suspension system, featuring McPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, provides excellent handling and comfort over various road surfaces.

For safety and convenience, the car is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and electric power steering, enhancing control and stability. The tire sizes range from 215/55 R17 to 245/35 R20, offering options for different driving preferences.

Suitability for Different Lifestyles

The Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport is versatile, catering to various needs:

• City Driving: Its automatic transmission and compact turning circle make it easy to maneuver in urban environments.
• Long-Distance Travel: Excellent fuel efficiency and comfortable seating make it ideal for road trips.
• Family Use: Spacious interior and large trunk space accommodate family needs.
• Single Ownership: Offers a balance of performance and practicality for individual drivers.
• Adventure Lifestyles: While not an off-roader, its towing capacity supports outdoor activities.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Here's a quick overview of the Insignia's pros and cons:

• Strengths:
  • Fuel-efficient diesel engine
  • Spacious interior and trunk
  • Comfortable ride quality
  • Good towing capacity
• Weaknesses:
  • Average acceleration
  • Limited off-road capability

Conclusion

In summary, the 2020 Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport is a well-rounded vehicle that excels in providing comfort, efficiency, and practicality. It's particularly well-suited for families and long-distance travelers, thanks to its spacious interior and excellent fuel economy. When considering your next car purchase, think about what features matter most to you. Do you need extra cargo space or prioritize fuel efficiency? The Insignia might just be the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Specifications Table

Attribute	Details
Generation	Insignia II Grand Sport (facelift 2020)
Modification (Engine)	1.5 Turbo D (122 Hp) Automatic
Powertrain Architecture	Internal Combustion engine
Body Type	Liftback
Seats	5
Doors	5
Combined Fuel Consumption	5-5.7 l/100 km (47.04 - 41.27 US mpg)
CO2 Emissions	130-150 g/km
Fuel Type	Diesel
Acceleration (0-100 km/h)	11.5 sec
Maximum Speed	200 km/h (124.27 mph)
Emission Standard	Euro 6d
Engine Displacement	1496 cm3 (91.29 cu. in.)
Number of Cylinders	3
Engine Configuration	Inline
Power Output	122 Hp @ 3500 rpm
Torque	285 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (210.21 lb.-ft.)
Kerb Weight	2140 kg (4717.89 lbs.)
Trunk Space (Minimum and Maximum)	490 l (17.3 cu. ft.) - 1450 l (51.21 cu. ft.)
Fuel Tank Capacity	62 l (16.38 US gal)
Length	4906 mm (193.15 in.)
Width	1863 mm (73.35 in.)
Height	1455 mm (57.28 in.)
Wheelbase	2829 mm (111.38 in.)
Drive Wheel System	Front wheel drive
Number of Gears (Transmission Type)	8 gears, automatic transmission
Front Suspension	Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar
Rear Suspension	Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer
Assisting Systems	ABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Power Steering	Electric Steering
Tire Size	215/55 R17; 245/45 R18; 245/35 R20
Wheel Rims Size	17; 18; 20