Insignia OPC/VXR Officially Released

[MatsHolden]

Vauxhall Press Release...


Nurburgring-proven chassis with Adaptive 4X4
Turbocharged V6 engine with race-bred design features
Unique-to-range front suspension for optimised grip and traction
Luton – Packing 325 horsepower, a sophisticated four-wheel-drive chassis and a sub-six second 0-60 time, Vauxhall’s new Insignia VXR is set to take the mid-size performance saloon market by storm when it goes on sale early this summer, with a level of dynamic prowess which aims to raise the bar in its class.

Based on the successful 2009 European Car of the Year, and available in hatch, saloon and Sports Tourer body styles, the high-performance Insignia will be Vauxhall’s first VXR model to adopt 4X4 technology, using a bespoke chassis developed through an extensive test programme at the gruelling Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

Highlights are a ‘HiPerStrut’ (High Performance Strut) front suspension system, Adaptive 4X4 with electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) and a 10 millimetre reduction in ride height over the Insignia SRi.

The HiPerStrut system is unique to the VXR and serves two primary functions: firstly, to reduce torque-steer, but also to maintain negative camber during cornering, thereby improving ultimate grip levels in wet or dry conditions.

Complementing these features are standard 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch lightweight forged alloys are a cost option) with bespoke tyres, revised bushing and damper settings on both axles, and Brembo brakes with colour-keyed callipers and vented/cross-drilled discs.

‘The Insignia VXR is not just about absolute power, but a combination of usable performance and chassis sophistication which is the match of premium rivals, such as Audi’s new S4,’ said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director. ‘ In essence, it’s an ultra-fast performance saloon that will appeal to buyers who appreciate subtle yet distinctive styling, but who need to know that there’s real substance below the car’s metal.’

And substance the VXR has a-plenty. At the heart of the Insignia VXR is Vauxhall’s advanced 2.8-litre V6 Turbo ECOTEC engine, with its micro-alloy forged steel crank, classic 60-degree cylinder angle and die-cast alloy oil sump – all features found in many a race engine. Producing 325PS (65PS up on the Elite V6), the engine uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control for quick throttle response, and accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, achieving an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

With a design inspired by the Vauxhall/Opel GTC, many of the Insignia VXR’s styling cues will be familiar to those who saw this groundbreaking concept at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. A deeper bumper, incorporating bold, twin mesh grilles either side of the main grille, dominates the front of the car, and at the rear, hatch and saloon models gain a rear spoiler, while all VXRs have a bespoke bumper moulding incorporating dual matt chrome exhausts.

This sporting theme continues in the Insignia VXR’s cabin. Recaro front seats, a new VXR steering wheel, VXR gearknob and unique mouldings are standard on all cars, along with different instrument graphics, VXR sill plates and a black headlining.

All VXRs are available with a colour palette comprising Arden Blue, Power Red, Carbon Flash Black, Silver Lake, Olympic White and Technical Grey.

Sitting at the top of the Insignia range, the new model will be an important addition to Vauxhall’s performance-bred VXR family, which already includes the Corsa VXR, Astra VXR and 431 horsepower VXR8.

Since its launch in 2004, the VXR brand has been underpinned by the immensely successful VX Racing team, which currently holds all three British Touring Car Championship titles – Drivers’, Manufacturers’ and Team – for the 2008 season.

Prices for the Vauxhall Insignia VXR will be announced soon.

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Opel Insignia OPC: Hot Chili Premiere at the Barcelona Motor Show





239 kW/325 hp and 400 Nm; 0 to 100 km/h in six seconds
Specially developed mechatronic chassis with all-wheel drive
First deliveries this fall

Rüsselsheim. The high performance version of the Car of the Year 2009 will be unveiled on May 7, when the Opel Insignia OPC premieres at the Barcelona Motor Show, ten years after the launch of the first OPC model (Opel Performance Center).

The heart of the Insignia OPC is its 2.8 V6 Turbo engine. Derived from the powerful gasoline engine already available on the top-of-the-line Insignia, this version reaches an output of 239 kW/325 hp. The increase in power was obtained by a special engine development and by reworking the exhaust, significantly reducing the counter pressure. And because sound is so important in the appreciation of an engine, the acoustic specialists worked on the exhaust of the V6 by adopting specific center and rear mufflers.

The Insignia OPC is available with a six-speed manual gearbox. The strong torque of 400 Nm ensures abundant pulling power even at lower engine speeds. With this engine performance, the Insignia OPC reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (restricted) and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in six seconds.

The already very well performing Insignia chassis was further fine tuned for the OPC variant which ride height has been reduced by 10 mm compared to the Insignia (AWD Sport version). The newly developed mechatronic chassis also receives a new front axle. The front suspension architecture of the Insignia OPC retains a so called McPherson strut, however the engineers at the Opel Performance Center came up with an evolution called HiPerStrut (for high performance strut). Benefits are an improved steering feel, reduced steering disturbances due to the high torque and an enhanced feeling in the handling for the driver.

The Insignia OPC also comes with the adaptive FlexRide suspension which not only adapts to driving situation and driving style but also to the driver’s preferences. While on the Insignia the system offers the choice between a standard adaptive setting, a more comfortable mode and a sport mode, the OPC is definitely addressing those enjoying a sportier ride. OPC drivers can choose between three different sport modes: the standard mode as the high comfort setting, a special Sport mode and the OPC mode, for optimal performance.

For the first time also in the OPC portfolio, the Adaptive 4x4 system and its electronic rear limited slip differential (eLSD) are standard. The four-wheel drive management unit has been recalibrated to adapt torque distribution to the sporty philosophy of the OPC. Taking the higher performances of the OPC into consideration, significant development efforts were put into further improving the brake system. Connoisseurs will immediately spot the Brembo calipers and the perforated 355 mm disc on the front axle.

“I was personally involved in the development of the Insignia OPC and I very much enjoyed extensive testing on the most demanding race track of the world, the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Our target was to rival the “best of the best”,” said Hans Demant, Managing Director Adam Opel GmbH.

Distinctive looks are a clear statement on dynamic ambitions

The top-of-the-line body style dressed in an elegant sports outfit is inspired by the GTC concept car which starred in 2007, but still remains true to the Insignia’s design philosophy of sculptural artistry meets German precision.

Compared to less powerful versions of the Insignia, the OPC shows a spectacular new front end with two large vertical intakes and a specific rear bumper with dual integrated exhausts. The 19-inch wheels (tires: 245/40) are standard and give the car the stance it deserves. New 20-inch lightweight forged wheels (with 255/35 tires) are available as an option.

The dynamic sportiness of the exterior is also mirrored in the cockpit. When opening the door, the OPC is immediately impressive, from unique Recaro seats to a flat-bottomed sporty steering wheel and specific gear knob. The OPC also presents distinctive instrument graphics.

“The Insignia OPC marks the beginning of a new era for our OPC portfolio; still bold, but also more mature and refined, and more ambitious than ever. The OPC epitomizes the Insignia experience: dynamic and refined”, says Alain Visser, GM Europe Vice President Opel.

[poita]

please please please please please please please please please please please please
please please please please please please please please please please please please

[sooty]

Sounds very...very nice...
Although...personally...i think the insignia is too big to pull off arden blue, if that makes sense to anyone.

[poita]

screams bmw, not that thats a bad thing

http://www.roadfly.com/new-cars/wp-content/uploads/gallery/2008-bmw-m3-sedan/2008-bmw-m3-sedan.jpg

[MatsHolden]

Sounds very...very nice...
Although...personally...i think the insignia is too big to pull off arden blue, if that makes sense to anyone.

It might be able to pull it off...

http://i50.photobucket.com/albums/f320/MatsHolden/8-14.jpg

[JR]

please please please please please please please please please please please please
please please please please please please please please please please please please

+1

:yesnod:
:yesnod:
:yesnod:
:yesnod:

[chrissn89]

Please and thank you :) That will be one very nice all round package.

[Shay]

specs sound good,
unsure of the body,
but love the ROH wheels

[GreyRex]

Look at that chunky monkey steering wheel!!

God i hope it drives well

It's hitting the right notes for me

See the Sport button just below the passenger air vent? It's got a little checkered flag on it... How cool is that!!

Tiny bit unsure of those front inlets in the bumper bar... but yeh, nice :D:D

EDIT: Did someone say next gen Astra VXR?? Haha. Hopefully this will be a good indication of what to expect

[Hoya]

no fog lights. blah!!

but damn, looks better then the new golf gti!!

[GreyRex]

no fog lights. blah!!

but damn, looks better then the new golf gti!!

They're not really competing in the same market, but ok:D:D

[lee683]

yes please
HSV??????????????????????????????????????????????? ?????????????????????????

[Hoya]

yes please
HSV??????????????????????????????????????????????? ?????????????????????????
just dream mate just dream!

[daaaaavek]

all that new car and they still use the same pedals from the TS SRi-T

[Nurb608]

should be out around about the time my lease finishes :D
An excellent replacement for the veccy and uses the same bottom end with a new head, cams etc. And the handling update.....what can i say apart from about bloody time :o

[Shay]

all that new car and they still use the same pedals from the TS SRi-T

guess it falls into the dont fix what aint broke catagory

[rjastra]

should be out around about the time my lease finishes :D
An excellent replacement for the veccy and uses the same bottom end with a new head, cams etc. And the handling update.....what can i say apart from about bloody time :o

Huh? The engine is based on the alloytec architecture found in the Commodore, various US GM cars , SAAB and Alfa. I dont think its anything to do with the old Vectra V6 engine.

[Jerram]

A nice car. People may disagree but I think they're trying real hard to Change Jeremy Clarkson's Vectra hangovers.

The body looks a bit like an identity crises though

From Front - Cady GTS (But strangely a tad of Daewoo Tosca (Holden Epica))
From Side - Defo BMW E60 5 Series
From Back - 5 series or , but with a tad of Proton (?) or new Lexus (?)

[Nurb608]

Huh? The engine is based on the alloytec architecture found in the Commodore, various US GM cars , SAAB and Alfa. I dont think its anything to do with the old Vectra V6 engine.

Not the vectra we have here. We didn't get the facelift which runs the 2.8. The current Vectra VXR also runs this motor.

[Nurb608]

From Front - Cady GTS (But strangely a tad of Daewoo Tosca (Holden Epica))

Definately shares similarities with the Cady, but epica, thats blasphomy, lol

[MatsHolden]

An excellent replacement for the veccy and uses the same bottom end with a new head, cams etc. :o

And it's a Holden HFV6...



EDIT: god people reply quickly here!

[Nurb608]

And it's a Holden HFV6...



EDIT: god people reply quickly here!

Thats the thing that sucks the most. The best veccy engine which we didn't get here but is produced at fishermans bend, grrrrrr.

[MatsHolden]

Thats the thing that sucks the most. The best veccy engine which we didn't get here but is produced at fishermans bend, grrrrrr.

Produce the good stuff here and send it away. Sad.

[BEK-46P]

It does look very M5-ish, with a touch of Clubsport (along with just about everything else) but otherwise not bad.

Can't wait to see these things in black...

[delemonte]

I like... a lot! :D A bit big, but AWD and 239kW/400Nm with some fancy suspension sounds pretty good to me! ;)

[Calibrated]

i really hope holden wakes up on this.

[Corsa_Rob]

faaaark, thats nice, i like

[UnKnOwN]

drool....

[Vectracious]

looking forward to seeing the VXR treatment on the Touring.

Its unfortunate we probably won't get this (or any Insignia) here though.

[Wraith]

As said in the other thread, love the wheels and the engine sounds nice...that's about it...

[GreyRex]

Don't know if this has been posted...

found a vid

http://motoring.sky.com/news/galleries/vauxhall-insignia-vxr--first-look.aspx

[Hoya]

Don't know if this has been posted...

found a vid

http://motoring.sky.com/news/galleries/vauxhall-insignia-vxr--first-look.aspx
mmmmm
in love!

might move to england for 6 months :D

[dieselhead]

question is, how much? I read somewhere tha it competes with the S4, so are we talking around $100k?

[Manda88]

looks really nice. alot better than the s4 in my mind. not a fan of the interior though...but around 100k? really?

[dieselhead]

apparently is going to be 4k squids cheaper than the S4 in UK. the S4 is about $120k here so yeah, could be that an AWD HSV Insignia would cost around $100k.

[BEK-46P]

My opinion changed after watching that vid. One word: CLUNKY.

Still love the wheels though!

[Shaun]

I love the look of this. I believe HSV have been considering bringing in other VXR models. If the price is close to an S4 then i highly doubt the Insigina VXR will reach australian shores. but i dont believe this is the case as both Opel and Vauxhall Would struggle to move stock. And it would mean the VXR8 would be cheaper then the Insgina VXR.

[Neeko]

Police Insignia

http://www.dieselstation.com/img/Vauxhall/New-Police-specification-Insignia/New-Police-specification-Insignia-02.jpg (http://www.dieselstation.com/cars/new-police-insignia-a1751.html)

http://www.dieselstation.com/img/Vauxhall/New-Police-specification-Insignia/New-Police-specification-Insignia-01.jpg (http://www.dieselstation.com/cars/new-police-insignia-a1751.html)

[Hoya]

Police Insignia

http://www.dieselstation.com/img/Vauxhall/New-Police-specification-Insignia/New-Police-specification-Insignia-02.jpg (http://www.dieselstation.com/cars/new-police-insignia-a1751.html)

http://www.dieselstation.com/img/Vauxhall/New-Police-specification-Insignia/New-Police-specification-Insignia-01.jpg (http://www.dieselstation.com/cars/new-police-insignia-a1751.html)

weee wahh wee wahhh

looks nice, the rear lights look like they are attched to the boot

[GreyRex]

That's a pretty huge tailgate

[Wraith]

question is, how much? I read somewhere tha it competes with the S4, so are we talking around $100k?

That's a good question - how much will this thing cost ' if ' it ever arrives down under ???

100k sounds alright for what you get, but would it really sell well at that price point here in Australia ???

HSV has the new S/C Walkie R8 at much less than that, so I'm thinking not well at all...

IMO it could never compete in the luxo/prestige market against the likes of say Audi, the new S4 with the new S/C 3.0ltr V6 is a beautiful car and that engine has a factory tune of 300kw in other new Audi models.

[JR]

looks nice, the rear lights look like they are attched to the boot

yes they r on the boot.
but u'll also notice tiny tailights on the inside - bottom sides.
otherwise it will b a safety hazard :yikes:

[sooty]

That's a good question - how much will this thing cost ' if ' it ever arrives down under ???

100k sounds alright for what you get, but would it really sell well at that price point here in Australia ???
.
Don't think it'll cost 100k.
For comparison the Astra VXR is 22k GBP over there.
An Elite insigna SRI with the 2.8L turbo 6 is 30kGBP
Even if the VXR is another 5k GBP, if the VXR is say $40k here, then the insignia VXR is looking more like $75-80,000...
I'd rather a Passat R36 for that price.

[GreyRex]

Don't think it'll cost 100k.
For comparison the Astra VXR is 22k GBP over there.
An Elite insigna SRI with the 2.8L turbo 6 is 30kGBP
Even if the VXR is another 5k GBP, if the VXR is say $40k here, then the insignia VXR is looking more like $75-80,000...
I'd rather a Passat R36 for that price.

I wonder how they'd compare...

Hopefully the euro guys will do a comparo

[Wraith]

Don't think it'll cost 100k.
For comparison the Astra VXR is 22k GBP over there.
An Elite insigna SRI with the 2.8L turbo 6 is 30kGBP
Even if the VXR is another 5k GBP, if the VXR is say $40k here, then the insignia VXR is looking more like $75-80,000...
I'd rather a Passat R36 for that price.

Hmmm that price point puts it in competition with a multitude of other car types, not neccessarily in the same class, but certainly in price and the aforementioned Walkie S/C R8 is still in there too (80k + ORC's) if one wanted a brute power sedan...

I suppose each will have their own choice, we have to wait and see how good or not this thing is and price point when or if it ever gets here and take it from there :)

[MatsHolden]

insignia VXR is looking more like $75-80,000...
I'd rather a Passat R36 for that price.

If it's going to cost that... can't see HSV doing it. But then again we don't know what the costing's going to be so we'll see.

[Shaun]

If it's going to cost that... can't see HSV doing it. But then again we don't know what the costing's going to be so we'll see.

HSV are saying round the 55k mark if the can secure the car. As we seem to be over the worst of the finanical crisis now in Australia its possibe HSV could bring these car. Our Dollar seems to be stronger against the USD atm and will meaning were in a good positon for for it to become strong against the Euro in time to come.

[kabel]

Apparently one is on it`s way to Australia to do the show car circuit.
Info was posted on a UK forum.

[glider]

HSV are saying round the 55k mark if the can secure the car. As we seem to be over the worst of the finanical crisis now in Australia its possibe HSV could bring these car. Our Dollar seems to be stronger against the USD atm and will meaning were in a good positon for for it to become strong against the Euro in time to come.

I'm suprised it's that cheap...

i mean its less than a sti ffs.... altho my rationale is clouded atm... regardless its alot of car for the price they are thinking...

[MatsHolden]

I'm suprised it's that cheap...

i mean its less than a sti ffs.... altho my rationale is clouded atm..

That's what it'd have to be to fit into the HSV range. They're not going to pitch it above a Clubsport... If it works out that the price would be too close or even higher than a Clubsport, then they won't do it.

[Manda88]

there is a write up on it in the newest TGA mag.. i would say that means possibly coming here.. but knowing TGA mag they just basically cut and paste TGUK mag :p

[HappySlapper82]

I would say with the demise of holden V8's in Australia that the VXR Insignia is a logical option for HSV, which is half the reason Top Gear Mag is stating that it will be released in Australia, and according to them it's not a maybe

[xplosv57]

I would say with the demise of holden V8's in Australia that the VXR Insignia is a logical option for HSV, which is half the reason Top Gear Mag is stating that it will be released in Australia, and according to them it's not a maybe

I haven't seen a demise of Holden V8's, if anything, they're selling better than ever!!!

But i'd definetely consider this Insignia VXR as a new car purchase, even if it's priced the same as a Clubby!!

[MatsHolden]

I haven't seen a demise of Holden V8's, if anything, they're selling better than ever!!!


True that.

[Vectracious]

can anyone scan the article and post it up?

[dieselhead]

i could but i guess it would not be exactly kosher...

V8s are selling fast because Holden might run out of them soon ;)

[Vectracious]

i could but i guess it would not be exactly kosher...

V8s are selling fast because Holden might run out of them soon ;)


can you email it to me then? ;)

[poita]

dont be a tight arse pete and buy the mag :p

[Vectracious]

dont be a tight arse pete and buy the mag :p

havent even finished reading last months Wheels yet - not going to buy another mag I'm not going to read.

[Manda88]

its an 8.95 special.. and its two mags for one.. but dont get excited its the first mag they released which was rubbish :p

[Wraith]

Lots of good articles in the latest TG mag :)

And yes 'they say' 55k but that's still a maybe/unsure thing, suffice to say 55k is a very good price point for that vehicle...should do well

On the subject of V8's they've been selling better than ever since about 2000 with no sign of letting up, believe it or not, lots of people out there love their V8's ;)

Also Shaun, the economic crisis is far from over despite the positive recently released Aust. Government trade/economy figures, the rest of the World will still take at least 12-18 months to recover in that time we'll still be adversely affected, we're always on the tail end of these things, but hopefully it won't get really bad...

[Manda88]

:DTGA article ( i dont have a scanner so here ya go)



HSV lite
Vauchall's AWD 239kw twin-turbo Insignia VXR looks set to get HSV badges.

It's got a holden motor, it's smoking quick and it's set to lob in Oz next year. What the hell is it? It's a Vauxhall Insignia VXR. WIth a 239kw turbocharged 2.8 liter V6 driving all four wheels, it'll do 0-100km/h in 5.9 seconds. With Holden's plans to import the base-model Insignia firming up, the path is clear for HSV to add a second non-V8 rar driver to it's range. With an all-new front suspension setup and electronic rear diff, big brembo brakes and stock 19" rims (20's are optional), HSV reckons it will cost about $55,000. Yummo Alrights to Top Gear Australia Magazine June 2009 Issue BBC

[Shaun]

Could it be the Astra is going to make way for the Insigina. It would make sence if this was to be the case to compete against the Honda Accord, Ford Mondeo Mazda 6 class.

[Shaun]

Lots of good articles in the latest TG mag :)

And yes 'they say' 55k but that's still a maybe/unsure thing, suffice to say 55k is a very good price point for that vehicle...should do well

On the subject of V8's they've been selling better than ever since about 2000 with no sign of letting up, believe it or not, lots of people out there love their V8's ;)

Also Shaun, the economic crisis is far from over despite the positive recently released Aust. Government trade/economy figures, the rest of the World will still take at least 12-18 months to recover in that time we'll still be adversely affected, we're always on the tail end of these things, but hopefully it won't get really bad...

What i was refering to is we have faired the best of developed nations in the ecconomic crisis. We havent lost any where near the amount of business or jobs like the USA.

[Manda88]

yet.... we rely on the us market majorly so we will have effects soon enough down the line..

[Vectracious]

Thanks Manda

Hmmm - I wonder who TG Aus has spoken to to sound so certain that not only HSV is bringing the VXR Insignia over, but Holden is going to bring the normal Insignia over as well!

Damn - to wait or not to wait......

[Shaun]

Thanks Manda

Hmmm - I wonder who TG Aus has spoken to to sound so certain that not only HSV is bringing the VXR Insignia over, but Holden is going to bring the normal Insignia over as well!

Damn - to wait or not to wait......

Good question you ask there. I know HSV are in talks with VXL trying to see if its viable. I still think if its going to happen the logical way of thinking is that the astra is being dropped to make way for the insignia. Nothing about the epica being replaced or facelifted has been spoken of at this stage . All the focus has been on the cruize (which i seen last night in a dealership and looks very stylish for a Korean built car) . Holden is loosing ground in the mid car sector the epica. Possibly the outcome is the insignia as a replacement .

[rjastra]

The mid size car sector is in decline again (the new Mazda 6 sales are a case in point). Not really worth Holden putting too much effort into at the moment

[Wraith]

What i was refering to is we have faired the best of developed nations in the ecconomic crisis. We havent lost any where near the amount of business or jobs like the USA.

Fair enough thanks for the clarification :)

I don't think we were ever at risk of becoming as bad as the U.S as that's the GFC's ground zero...

And hopefully Australia continues to hold up over the coming 12-18 months :)

[Wraith]

Thanks Manda

Hmmm - I wonder who TG Aus has spoken to to sound so certain that not only HSV is bringing the VXR Insignia over, but Holden is going to bring the normal Insignia over as well!

Damn - to wait or not to wait......

If your interested in this vehicle Pete and your in no hurry to update, then definitely wait it out and see what happens...time flies and before you know it, it'll be mid 2010 :)

[xplosv57]

Thanks Manda

Hmmm - I wonder who TG Aus has spoken to to sound so certain that not only HSV is bringing the VXR Insignia over, but Holden is going to bring the normal Insignia over as well!

Damn - to wait or not to wait......

Wait!! ;)

[Apex]

Hm. I hope to hell this comes down under, I wouldn’t buy one myself but can see a defiant place for it in the market… It will have no real competitor at 55k, bar the Commodore or Falcon. Cannibalisation.

Got sent an invite to the launch of the Cruise yesterday, they offered “light refreshments” I found that quite fitting as that is what the Cruise is after all. Had it said drinks provide I might have just been interested? Holden NZX had one on display at the Hamilton V8 round and my mate and I both agreed it was a nice looking well packaged car and it made the AH next to it look dated

[Wraith]

Hm. I hope to hell this comes down under, I wouldn’t buy one myself but can see a defiant place for it in the market… It will have no real competitor at 55k, bar the Commodore or Falcon. Cannibalisation.

Got sent an invite to the launch of the Cruise yesterday, they offered “light refreshments” I found that quite fitting as that is what the Cruise is after all. Had it said drinks provide I might have just been interested? Holden NZX had one on display at the Hamilton V8 round and my mate and I both agreed it was a nice looking well packaged car and it made the AH next to it look dated

Agree for a similar price to a top spec'd new Honda City, the Cruze looks the goods o/a.

Think I've mentioned it before a good friend of mine has ordered one - hopefully I'll get to give it a good and thorough look over and drive, will let you all know how it shapes out :)

[Apex]

Agree for a similar price to a top spec'd new Honda City, the Cruze looks the goods o/a.

Think I've mentioned it before a good friend of mine has ordered one - hopefully I'll get to give it a good and thorough look over and drive, will let you all know how it shapes out :)

Good stuff, the oil burner looks to be the one to go for.

[daiflu]

I went for a drive in one a couple of weeks back. Seemed to handle alright (for what it is). The thing I noticed most was how quite the cabin was. No road noise or wind noise. The interior styling wasn't my cup of tea, but it's not cheap and nasty (IMO better than the VE).
I asked for a drive, but because it was one of the demo models they had brought over early, some of the features didn't meet ADR's (something about the reverse lights) so the driver needed a special permit.

[Apex]

Bloody ADR! They must be real pricks. We just purchased a new car and the reason we were given for it not having the Recaros they get in Europe was ADR rules!! Bugger them.

Sorry off topic…even more.

[Wraith]

LOL the ADR's are there for a good reason, mainly safety albeit there are different standards and rules across the board :)

Still I agree, it is dissapointing when some nice kit dosn't comply from one Country to another and you miss out on it :(

[Wraith]

Good stuff, the oil burner looks to be the one to go for.

Is this variant available to Aust. ???

It dosn't show up in the GMH web site...

[glider]

Is this variant available to Aust. ???

It dosn't show up in the GMH web site...

http://www.holdencampaign.com.au/cruze/#/lineup

theres a 2.0 turbo diesel

[rjastra]

Bloody ADR! They must be real pricks. We just purchased a new car and the reason we were given for it not having the Recaros they get in Europe was ADR rules!! Bugger them.

Sorry off topic…even more.

What car was it?

[Wraith]

http://www.holdencampaign.com.au/cruze/#/lineup

theres a 2.0 turbo diesel

That page dosn't open up for me :confused:

On the official GMH site : www.holden.com.au they only show the 1.8ltr petrol variant ???

[MatsHolden]

That page dosn't open up for me :confused:

On the official GMH site : www.holden.com.au (http://www.holden.com.au) they only show the 1.8ltr petrol variant ???

The 2.0L diesel is on on GMH's site. It's only available on the CD. Not available on the CDX.

[9090GO]

Vauxhall Insignia from Autocar, I will buy one if I am after a famil sedan
yMWM1JnZpWY

[Wraith]

The 2.0L diesel is on on GMH's site. It's only available on the CD. Not available on the CDX.

Thanks Mat, I'll have to take another look :)

Pretty sure the one my friend ordered is the 1.8ltr pity would've liked to see how well the TD drives...might try it out myself when I get the chance :)

And yes that Insignia would make a good family sedan - it's growing on me :)

[Vectracious]

If your interested in this vehicle Pete and your in no hurry to update, then definitely wait it out and see what happens...time flies and before you know it, it'll be mid 2010 :)


Wait!! ;)


;)

[MatsHolden]

http://www.babez.de/wp-content/myfotos/opel-insignia-opc-sports-tourer/opel-insignia-opc-sports-tourer-01.jpg

http://www.carvehicle.net/wallpaper/1/2009/05/opel-insignia-opc-sports-tourer-2010-4.jpg

[xplosv57]

Nott 100% on the back, still looks okay, but love the front!!!

[poita]

still stand by my, i want one!!

[Vectracious]

I think I prefer the sedan over the wagon.

[Greg K]

as mush as i love the Insignia (both wagon and sedan), is it wrong that i feel reluctant to buy another "Holden"?? I will prob be a great car and all, but i worry about how Holden will go about being dealing with post-sale services...

[Nurb608]

VXR Insignia specs and UK pricing finally released.

INTRODUCTION

Based on the successful 2009 European Car of the Year Vauxhall is pleased to announce further details of the exciting Insignia VXR. With a design inspired by the GTC concept car, many of the Insignia VXR’s styling cues will be familiar to those who saw this groundbreaking concept at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show.

A deeper bumper, incorporating bold, twin mesh grilles either side of the main grille, dominates the front of the car, and at the rear, there is a bespoke bumper moulding incorporating dual matt chrome exhausts.

Available in Hatch, Saloon and Sports Tourer, the Insignia VXR’s 2.8 Litre V6 Turbo produces 325PS and accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.6 Seconds (Sports Tourer 5.9 seconds)

This sporting theme continues in the Insignia VXR’s cabin. Recaro front seats, a new VXR steering wheel, VXR gearknob and unique mouldings are standard on all cars, along with different instrument graphics, VXR sill plates and a black headlining.

The high-performance Insignia will be Vauxhall’s first VXR model to adopt 4X4 technology, using a bespoke chassis developed through an extensive test programme at the gruelling Nürburgring circuit in Germany.

Highlights are a ‘HiPerStrut’ front suspension system, Adaptive 4X4 with electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) and a 10 millimetre reduction in ride height over the Insignia SRi.
The HiPerStrut system is unique to the VXR and serves two primary functions: firstly, to reduce torque-steer, but also to maintain negative camber during cornering, thereby improving ultimate grip levels in wet or dry conditions.

Complementing these features are standard 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch lightweight forged alloys are a cost option) with bespoke tyres, revised bushing and damper settings on both axles, and Brembo brakes with colour-keyed callipers and vented/cross-drilled discs.

‘The Insignia VXR is not just about absolute power, but a combination of usable performance and chassis sophistication which is the match of premium rivals, such as Audi’s new S4,’ said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director. ‘In essence, it’s an ultra-fast performance car that will appeal to buyers who appreciate subtle yet distinctive styling, but who need to know that there’s real substance below the car’s metal.’

SPECIFICATION / OPTIONS

Standard specification on Insignia VXR includes:
VXR Specific Body styling
19inch V-spoke Alloy Wheels
Recaro Sports Seats
Specific VXR Chassis
Sight and Light Pack
Brembo 355mm 4-Pot Caliper Brake System
Bi-Xenon Adaptive Forward Lighting
Adaptive 4x4 with Flexride
Tyre Pressure Monitoring



VXR Specific Options over Insignia Options also available
20inch Forged Billet Bi-color Alloy Wheels with 225/35 R20 tyres- £1100

Leather Pack : Leather Seat facings, 8 Way Electric Adjustment and Power Folding Mirrors.- £1300

Insurance Group Rating
Please note Insignia VXR is ABI recommended:
20 Group Rating – 18E
50 Group rating – 36E


PRICING and ORDERING

Please find the pricing details for the new Insignia VXR. Key competitors for this car are the Audi S4 at £34,260 BMW 335M Sport saloon £34,840 and VM Passat R36 £31,825



VXR Saloon/ Hatch £30,995 OTR

VXR NAV Saloon/Hatch £31,810 OTR

VXR Sports Tourer £32,320 OTR
VXR NAV Sports Tourer £33,135 OTR




Colours
Insignia VXR is available with a colour palette comprising
Arden Blue (GBM)
Power Red (GBH)
Carbon Flash Black (GAR)
Silver Lake (GEV)
Olympic White (GAZ)
Technical Grey, (GAL)

[Calibrated]

please holden, please see the light

[Neeko]

bloody hell she goes

[Wraith]

Check out the pricing people !!!

There goes the 50k $AUD speculation right out the window...

You can definitely bet your arse ' if ' it comes here, don't expect any change from 65k+ for the base model and around 80k+ for the nav. sports tourer...add the ORC's and it's getting awful close to 6 figures...

I still think though it has the goods for that price tag, only problem is at that price point it competes against some other very desirable hardware...

[Wraith]

Don't think it'll cost 100k.
For comparison the Astra VXR is 22k GBP over there.
An Elite insigna SRI with the 2.8L turbo 6 is 30kGBP
Even if the VXR is another 5k GBP, if the VXR is say $40k here, then the insignia VXR is looking more like $75-80,000...
I'd rather a Passat R36 for that price.

Looks like your were pretty much spot on with the above Ain :)

I like it, but still trying to come to grips with the o/a external styling - really need to see it in the flesh :)

[Jerram]

I seem to recall reading an article where some guy from HSV stated that if it were to be sold, it would need to be "less than a clubby" at around the 55,000 mark. What do you reckon the manufacturing costs would be?

In any case I don't see it being successful at all at that money considering you're getting into both Euro and Australian v8 premium territory.

[mania]

Is HiPerStrut GM speak for RevoKnuckle? Or renaults similar hardware?

EDIT: apparently it is. Neat. Now we just need someone to figure out a retrofit for astras :)

[Wraith]

I seem to recall reading an article where some guy from HSV stated that if it were to be sold, it would need to be "less than a clubby" at around the 55,000 mark. What do you reckon the manufacturing costs would be?

In any case I don't see it being successful at all at that money considering you're getting into both Euro and Australian v8 premium territory.

No way 55k after seeing the U.K price list above !

What's been said or printed till now was all just speculation...

If you look at just about any car sold in the U.K and then compare the price tag of the same sold here, it usually falls into a 2-2.5x price point of the U.K price point (around 2.2 is a good indicator) and compared with U.S pricing it's always around 2x what they pay in $USD

If you want one start saving your pennies as you'll need the better part of 70-80k...I still reckon that's a good price for what you get, but would be looking more seriously at other alternatives especially at 90k, there are a few other much nicer machines out there for that much :)

[glider]

we wont get it imo, too expensive for me to be intersted now :(

[sooty]

Looks like your were pretty much spot on with the above Ain :)

I like it, but still trying to come to grips with the o/a external styling - really need to see it in the flesh :)
Logic wins out again:lol:
Not a bad price though when compared to the Elite SRi that i mentioned.

[btm]

pricey!

[Wraith]

Logic wins out again:lol:
Not a bad price though when compared to the Elite SRi that i mentioned.

Agree, as I've quoted too already even at 80k it's not a bad price comparatively speaking...

A range topping MR Evo 10 will cost you over 70k, Sti around 65k, basic TTS around 90k, S3 around 70k+ and so on, that's just comparing some other hi po AWD vehicles in sedan, hatch and coupe layouts...even the FWD RS Focus if brought over here would land at around 60k or over, so the Insignia seems priced accordingly, but would only attract a niche/small market and sell in small volumes at that price IMO.

[xplosv57]

PRICING and ORDERING

Please find the pricing details for the new Insignia VXR. Key competitors for this car are the Audi S4 at £34,260 BMW 335M Sport saloon £34,840 and VM Passat R36 £31,825

VXR Saloon/ Hatch £30,995 OTR


VXR NAV Saloon/Hatch £31,810 OTR

VXR Sports Tourer £32,320 OTR

VXR NAV Sports Tourer £33,135 OTR





Hmmm ok well......

Audi S4 $118,900
BMW 335i sedan $107,300
VW Passat R36 $65,990

just for comparison to what the VXR may be priced at (i'd say closer to the Passat pricewise)!!

By god us Aussies are getting ripped off for Bimmer's and Audi's!!!! :mad:

[Wraith]

By god us Aussies are getting ripped off for Bimmer's and Audi's!!!! :mad:

Ain't that a fact !!! :(

Don't forget all the other prestige/luxo brands as well, same story for all of them...

And then there's the more humble brands too, eg. Nissan GT-R a measly 78k $AUD in Japan, enough to make you wanna :mad2:

[rjastra]

HOLDEN Special Vehicle’s aspirations to add the latest hot European contender to its Australian range alongside its locally-made V8 E Series models have been clouded by the imminent sale of GM Europe.

The Melbourne-based, Tom Walkinshaw-owned company is awaiting the outcome of talks between General Motors and potential suitors – led by parts-maker Magna International and Chinese car company Beijing Auto – for the sale of GM’s European operations before looking to lock in a business case to import the just-released mid-sized all-wheel drive turbo V6 Insignia VXR.

HSV hopes to be in a position to announce its European import plans at the media launch for its locally made E Series 2 midlife facelift in early September, by which time the GM Europe ownership issue should be well settled.

HSV’s group manager, external affairs Simon Frost told GoAuto: “We hope to say a bit more about those products at that time, but our plans going forward are clouded a bit by the ownership issue.

“I don’t think any final decisions have been made yet. Things are still being worked through with various contacts we have at Vauxhall.

“But if it ends up that they are not part of our world, it makes it very difficult to go down that path.”

From top: Vauxhall Insignia VXR sedan, VXR wagon and Vauxhall Astra.

HSV’s big sister, GM Holden, is also looking to import the Insignia as a premium mid-sizer – a move that would make it easier for HSV to bring in the VXR variant, as the two companies could tag team on Australian Design Rule certification and shipping and parts arrangements for their combined volumes.

The Insignia VXR – the performance flagship of the mid-size replacement for the Vectra in Europe – went on sale this week in the UK and Europe after making its public debut at England’s Goodwood Festival of Speed last weekend.

Known as the Insignia OPC in continental Europe, the hottest Insignia packs 239kW of power and 435Nm of torque from its Holden-made 2.8-litre V6, which is boosted by a twin-scroll turbocharger. This powerplant is essentially the same engine that Saab uses in its V6 models.

Available in both sedan and wagon guises, the Insignia VXR can race from zero to 100km/h in six seconds and has an electronically limited top speed of 250km/h.

In the Vauxhall range, it is only out-performed by the HSV-made 6.2-litre V8 Vauxhall VXR8. Insignia prices start at £30,995 ($A63,417), slipping under the VXR8’s £35,275 ($A72,175) entry pricetag by £4280 ($A8757).

If it makes it to Australia, the German-built Insignia VXR will line up beside the European-built, Astra-based 177kW/320Nm 2.0-litre turbo HSV VRX, which is due to be superseded in Europe in 2011 – up to two years after the new sixth-generation Astra cooking model goes on sale this year in the UK and Europe.

The future of the HSV’s Astra VXR also may depend on the outcome of the GM Europe sale, not to mention Holden’s possible axing of Astra to concentrate its small-car marketing efforts on its Korean-built Cruze and, from next year, locally made small car.

Without a Holden base model, supported by Holden’s large-volume import operation, it might get all too hard for the small numbers required by HSV.

Instead, a turbo variant of the Holden-built small car might be an attractive alternative.

In Europe, the new Astra VXR again will be based on the yet-to-released three-door Astra Sport Hatch, with a lower roofline and what UK’s Autocar describes as “a far more outlandish shape” than the current three-door model.

Despite the ownership conundrum, Vauxhall/Opel are forging ahead with the production launch of the mainstream Astra this year, announcing that the right-hand-drive five-door hatch for the UK will be built at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant in northern England.

Canadian-owned Magna remains the favourite to take over GM Europe, which runs both Opel and Vauxhall.

GM has set a deadline of July 15 for final bids, and a decision is expected to be made quickly after that.

[Wraith]

So if I read rj's post correctly, it's not a twin turbo set up on the V6 but a single 'twin scroll' turbo set up ??

And again more confirmation on the price point, looks like you'll defenitely need the better part of 70-80k...

[rjastra]

So if I read rj's post correctly, it's not a twin turbo set up on the V6 but a single 'twin scroll' turbo set up ??

And again more confirmation on the price point, looks like you'll defenitely need the better part of 70-80k...

Yes... exxy

Does anyone realise that new the Skoda Superb 3.6L 4x4 is essentially the engine and chassis of the Passat R36. That comes in at around 60K on road.

[Wraith]

Yes... exxy

Does anyone realise that new the Skoda Superb 3.6L 4x4 is essentially the engine and chassis of the Passat R36. That comes in at around 60K on road.

Yep, but arn't most recent Skodas VW's in drag...a bit like some Audis, but without the high tech body and better interiors...

[Nurb608]

A couple of vids, not sure what they show as I cant access them at work so someone tell me, lol.

Black at the ring

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMa2xMMn5Gs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fMa2xMMn5Gs)

White promo vid

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJRufobzo00 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NJRufobzo00)

Interior

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZIQ_XB9hxg (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZIQ_XB9hxg)