Faults:
Suspension rattle (wear and tear, will have it checked).
"GPF" (Gas Particulate Filter) regeneration seemed to take forever. Yes, petrol cars have these now as well, but they seem to be less problematic than diesels DPF's, if you treat them correctly and service the car on time.
Climate control a bit crazy, sometimes does not work right.
Rear passenger air vents broke.
General Comments:
Bright red 2019 SRi Vx Line Insignia Grand Sport, gorgeous car, very underrated styling. This car has been great for me for a year now with no major issues. 5 years old and looks and drives as good as new.
The Insignia is a very underrated car, easily up there with German rivals. I do not expect it to be as reliable as my previous 2011 Toyota Avensis however over the long term, but if you take care of these cars they are generally reliable. I had an older Insignia years ago (one of the first from 2009) and it was OK.
1.5 turbo engine is a revelation. Was going to go for a diesel at first, but a test drive in one of these showed me it had enough power and was also very quiet. Economy isn't too bad either at around 35 - 40 mpg, slightly hindered by that automatic transmission; a manual version could maybe get a little more economy and performance.
Still, this car is surprisingly involving to drive. SRi trim has stiffer springs - handles better than you think. You can have fun in corners, or take it easy, the car really is the best of both worlds, providing a fun driving experience or relaxed long distance cruising.
All models are well equipped with very nice comfortable seats. Dash is laid out very nicely. The car feels a bit big and heavy, but never an issue once you are used to it. Plenty of space inside and the boot/hatch area is massive.
Value for money wise there is nothing to beat the Insignia on the used market. These newer 2017 onwards models can be had for less than 10 grand now. An equivalent Ford Mondeo or whatever else is much more expensive.
11th May 2024, 11:06
Small bushes at top of suspension struts on these can fail early causing a rattle; mine is the same, relatively inexpensive to repair.