2010 Vauxhall Insignia Elite 2.0 turbo diesel from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Luxury as cheap as it gets
Faults:
Not much in the two years I have had it, I have put around 20K miles on it reliably, but looking at the history, a lot of parts have been replaced, and major problems like common diesel issues were taken care of. Looked expensive, but that was one of the reasons I bought the car - the majority of common faults had been addressed.
General Comments:
After my 2005 Mazda 6 diesel died (decent car, just not as reliable as it should have been!) I found this Elite model Insignia in the used car lot locally in 2020, and it has the lot - black leather seats, full electrics. Massive spec on this car. Interior has the electrics you could want in a 2010 car.
Got a great deal on this car - these Insignia's are about as cheap as used cars get, they are not the best car in its class (that award goes to the Mondeo) nor are they the most well built, but if you want a good modern car for as little as possible, they are about the best you can get.
Inside as mentioned is very nice, wood effect, quiet and comfortable. 2.0 CDTi will get you around 50 mpg with reasonable performance. Center console controls are a little fiddly but you get used to it. Boot is massive and can carry 4 adults in comfort plus luggage no problem.
I plan to keep mine long term as despite its age it has performed well. If you find a nice one in the used bargains with history at a reasonable price, go for it. Lots of independent garages have a good knowledge of these car's common faults and can help you out with servicing and repairs for a good price. Even tax and insurance has been cheaper than most cars I have had before. Overall I like it more than I thought I would.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 28th July, 2022
21st Dec 2017, 16:10
You're not alone with your comment about the electronic handbrake;
https://www.carthrottle.com/post/6-reasons-why-the-electronic-handbrake-needs-to-die/
Of course, some will comment they like it and it is an "advancement", but I and many others beg to differ. A lever was fine. Incidentally, Mercedes had handbrakes on the dash to save space since the 80s, but at least they were mechanical - not electronic. A mate of mine just had his 2015 VW Golf battery go flat and had a hard time moving the car with the brake stuck on with no power to remove it. There is an emergency release, but we had to look for it. A total nightmare, bring back the lever!