2011 Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer 4x4 Car Review and Specs | 2011 Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer 4x4 Car Wallpaper Pictures Pics

Since the Insignia hit UK showrooms at the start of 2009 it has been a resounding sales success for Vauxhall, with more than 55,000 cars sold in the last 18 months. Premium design cues, the choice of all-wheel-drive models and a raft of new technology in its sector has elevated its appeal to not only fleet customers, but also to retail buyers, who now account for 35 per cent of all sales " a 16 per cent improvement over the Vectra.

There has also been a significant increase in the number of upper-trim Insignias sold, such as the SRi, SE and Elite models (over 60 per cent) supporting the fact that Vauxhall is now seen as a viable alternative to more traditional premium cars in the mid-size sector, albeit at a lower price point.

And with some 40 awards now behind it " including the coveted European Car of the Year 2009 " its no surprise that UKbuyers made it the best-selling mid-size car soon after its launch in what isEuropes biggest single market for Insignia. But we werent alone: the Insignia has also become the best-selling or second-best selling mid-size car in 10 other European markets too.

To further boost the Insignias competitive position, Vauxhall has now combined the Insignias Adaptive 4x4 system, which was previously only available with the 2.0- and 2.8-litre petrol engines, with the 2.0-litre 160PS CDTi diesel engine. A rare combination in this market sector, the Insignia CDTi 4x4 hits British showrooms in September this year and will build Vauxhalls reputation for technological innovation still further. Moreover, engineers have made refinements on all diesel engines to further improve interior refinement.

The Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive system, together with the adaptive FlexRide chassis and the electronically controlled rear limited slip differential (eLSD), sets new standards for driving and handling. Studies show Insignia customers particularly value this innovation: Some 21 per cent of all 2.0-litre petrol models currently sold in the UKhave the Adaptive 4x4 system.

Adaptive 4x4 combines the best characteristics of conventional mechanical and hydraulic all-wheel drive systems, and means that the driven wheels dont have to spin before corrective measures kick in. The Insignia Adaptive 4x4 can still maintain safe traction even if three wheels are on sand or mud and only one rear wheel can find grip. In bad weather or on treacherous roads, the advanced chassis systems are designed to recognise and avoid danger early enough to support the driver in tricky situations, without detracting from the cars dynamic appeal.

The Vauxhall Adaptive 4x4 system not only helps out in critical safety situations. It also detects when all-wheel-drive is not required, such as on a dry, clear motorway, and reverts to front-wheel-drive to reduce friction loss and save fuel.

Award-winning innovative technologies

Adaptive 4x4 is only one of many intelligent technologies offered in all Insignia models. Intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting with its bi-xenon headlights that can adapt to different road conditions using nine unique lighting functions, has won awards for its safety and innovation. Some 35 per cent of UKbuyers have also opted for the Ergonomic Sport Seats, certified by orthopedic specialists, Action for Healthy Backs.

And for those buyers who tow caravans or trailers, the Insignias Retractable Trailer Hitch has proved a popular option. Featuring Trailer Stability Assist, which helps protect against pendulum swings, once the trailer is no longer needed the hitch can be simply folded away, keeping the elegant design of the Insignia intact.

Sports Tourer: Premium design and functionality combined

The Insignia Sports Tourer has many useful features, like a power tailgate with programmable opening height, Automatic Self Levelling Rear Suspension (standard with Towing Pack) and the familiar FlexOrganizer cargo management system. The completely flat luggage compartment has a capacity of 540 to 1,530 litres. The result is a stylish estate car that artfully conceals its high utility value.

The upscale design is echoed in the interior cabin which incorporates many high-quality materials. Keeping the styling contemporary, Vauxhall is offering two new trims. The Indian Summer interior offers premium, high quality, Nappa leather in a warm shade, complemented by elegant Cashmerestitching.

A further trim level will also be available in the UK, called SRi Vx-Line. This features a VXR-style sport leather steering wheel and gearshift gaiter, along with 19-inch, five-spoke alloys.

CHASSIS

Adaptive 4x4: combining dynamic excellence with all-weather security

-Sophisticated all-wheel drive system at the top of its class
-Adaptive FlexRide chassis system adds driver involvement and dynamic efficiency
-One of many innovative technologies offered in Vauxhalls mid-sized car

The award-winning Vauxhall Insignia saloon, hatch and Sports Tourer feature sophisticated innovations, like the Adaptive 4x4 system, which were previously only available in much more expensive sports cars or luxury saloons. Together with the FlexRide chassis and the electronic-hydraulic multi-disk clutch, the Adaptive 4x4 system sets new standards for its controls reaction times.

These are features Insignia owners already appreciate: sales analysis shows that 21 per cent of all 2.0-litre Insignias sold to date have been 4x4 models. Due to this demand, the Insignia saloon, hatch and Sports Tourers now couple the intelligent 4x4 with a 160PS 2-litre turbo diesel, available in UK showrooms this September.

The Adaptive 4x4 is perfect for hauling trailers and for anyone living in regions with inclement weather who has to travel regardless of the rain or snow. If the Sports Tourer model is ordered with a trailer hook, the standard Electronic Stability Program (ESP) system will also feature a Trailer Stability Assist program, which counters vehicle instability that may occur when towing a trailer or caravan. It does this by reducing engine torque and applying brake pressure to selected wheels when needed. The Towing Pack also features Automatic Self-leveling rear suspension which maintains a constant rear ride height when load-carrying or towing.

FlexRide improves stability " and driving pleasure

FlexRide comes as standard with Vauxhalls fully integrated Adaptive 4x4 chassis system which improves stability and provides real time, electronically controlled damping. FlexRide gives the driver the choice between three driving modes. In addition to the standard adaptive mode, the driver can either opt for a comfort-oriented "Tour" or a "Sport" setting. The Sport mode makes the Insignia Sports Tourer driving experience more active, changing the set-up of interlinked functions such as the steering, throttle control and even the ambient lighting of the dashboard.

The Insignias all-wheel drive system is among the most sophisticated systems on the market. The Adaptive 4x4 control unit is fully networked with the Insignias other control systems - the ESP sensors, the steering angle sensor and accelerator pedal position - to adapt power distribution to prevailing driving conditions.

In contrast, the FlexRide system in the Insignia VXR deliberately caters for the enthusiastic driver. The standard mode delivers ideal all-round performance combined with comfort characteristics suitable for everyday driving. In the â€œSport â€œmode, the chassis suspension stiffens, reducing body roll for more agility. The â€œVXRÂ mode provides the ultimate experience: more direct steering, a more responsive throttle and the chassis settings focus on optimal efficiency while dials illuminate in red. The four-wheel drive management unit has also been recalibrated to allow more torque to be sent to the rear wheels.

All-wheel drive electronics act as early-warning system

A big advantage of Vauxhalls all-wheel drive system is that wheels dont have to spin before the proper corrective measures are introduced. When the sensors detect a critical situation, it only takes around 80 milliseconds " the blink of an eye " for the system to send the required power distribution to the wheels. The power can be distributed seamlessly between the front and rear axle or between the rear wheels. In contrast to conventional mechanical all-wheel drives, the hydraulic controls enable lightning-quick reaction and intervention.

The all-wheel drive system constantly receives updates from three modules called Body Control Module (BCM), Engine Control Unit (ECU) and the ESP. The cars system analyses the information and distributes torque individually to the wheels, as needed.

For ultimate stability and performance, the Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive system is equipped as standard with an electronically controlled Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). The eLSD electronically controls the distribution of torque between the left and right rear wheels, transferring rear axle torque to the wheel that has the most grip. While offering better traction in slippery conditions, the sophisticated operation of the Adaptive 4x4 improves stability in all situations

The Insignia 4x4s power distribution travels from the front axle differential to a hydraulic Haldex multi-disk clutch, which electronically distributes the torque as required. This can be from zero to 100 percent between the front and rear axle. In the rear, power is distributed by a hydraulic multi-disk clutch which can transfer nearly 100 percent of the power to one rear wheel if required. This gives drivers the confidence that their Insignia 4x4 can still maintain safe traction even if three wheels are on sand or mud and only one rear wheel can find grip.

The modules receive their signals from sensors that capture yaw rate, acceleration, steering angle, wheel speed, throttle pedal position, engine speed and torque, and adapt power distribution to the driving situation based on this information. Even before take-off, the control module receives information on throttle pedal position and engine speed and is able to transfer torque between the front and rear axle to prevent the car losing traction.

Bad roads, rain and mud call for stability and control

Many drivers have experienced the feeling of picking up too much downhill speed, so they take their foot off the throttle only to realize their vehicle is struggling to follow the steering direction. The Insignias Adaptive 4x4 system uses a complex sensor system, to redirect power to individual wheels when the engine is slowing down (drag torque) as a result of releasing the accelerator. This allows drivers to steer more accurately and keep control of the vehicle.

Thanks to the many control options like torque and braking torque distribution and FlexRide damper control, the adaptive all-wheel drive system handles many critical driving situations without the need for ESP. which stays in the background as a guardian angel.

Front-wheel-drive employed where conditions permit

The Opel Insignia Adaptive 4x4 system not only helps out in tricky safety situations, it also detects when no external conditions require special intervention, such as travelling on a motorway. In this case the system switches off the rear-wheel drive system and reverts to front-wheel drive to reduce friction loss and save fuel.

POWERTRAIN

Diesel joins Vauxhalls Insignia 4x4 line up

-First Vauxhall passenger car to combine diesel and all-wheel drive
-Strong performance: 2.0 CDTi develops 160PS
-Reduced emissions and improved fuel consumption
-All-wheel drive offered on two petrol variants since launch

Vauxhalls active all-wheel drive system has been one of the many success stories since the Insignia was launched. Now it has added a 2.0 CDTi turbo with this advanced technology, combining the benefits of a diesel with the safety and handling from all-wheel drive. The Insignia 4x4 CDTi is the first Vauxhall to feature this combination of technologies.

The Insignia is available with a large range of engines, all certified to Euro 5 standards. The four petrol engines range from 140PS to 325PS. The two variants of the 2.0 CDTi turbo diesel offer output ranging from 130PS to 160PS. In addition, the ecoFLEX model developed from the 160PS variant offers remarkably low fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. All diesel engines have undergone substantial NVH improvements for this model year to enhance overall refinement and passenger comfort.

Since launch, the Adaptive 4x4 transmission was available as an alternative to front-wheel drive only in the 2.0 Turbo petrol engine (220PS).The offer now extends to the 160PS 2.0 CDTi. In addition, the Adaptive 4x4 will remain standard on the 260PS 2.8 V6 Turbo and 325PS VXR models.

The first Vauxhall passenger car to combine all-wheel-drive and diesel

The 2.0 CDTi engine produces 160PS at 4,000rpm, with maximum torque at 350Nm (up to 380Nm with overboost) at a low 1,750rpm. This top-of-the-line diesel accelerates to 60mph in 9.8 seconds and allows a top speed of 130mph yet boasts a combined fuel consumption of just 47.1mpg on the Sports Tourer 4x4. The engine is available with a 6-speed manual or automatic transmission.

The 2.0 CDTi engine uses a common-rail injection system working at pressures up to 1,600 bars. It delivers fuel through high-precision, electro-magnetically-controlled injector nozzles that allow up to five injections per stroke, enabling extremely precise combustion control in terms of noise and exhaust emissions. The standard, maintenance-free diesel particulate filter located close to the engine provides effective after-treatment of the exhaust gas.

The engine features Vauxhalls highly innovative â€œClean techÂ combustion concept that was launched on the ecoFLEX models in 2009. By using in-cylinder pressure sensors for the combustion control, the combustion process is perfectly optimised. The result is an impressive reduction of NOx and root particulates, while reaching optimal fuel economy.

Other features include twin overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, multiple direct fuel-injection and a variable geometry turbocharger for high torque and a rapid throttle response at low rpm. A dual mass flywheel ensures minimum vibration and the weight-optimised intake manifold is made of plastic. The electronically controlled exhaust gas recirculation has a variable cooling function. Electro-pneumatically operated bypass flaps are controlled by the engine management system to ensure that the re-circulated exhaust gas reaches an optimum temperature for combustion.

Insignia Sports Tourer with Adaptive 4x4 Engines 2.0 CDTi

2.0 TURBO 2.8 V6 TURBO VXR

Emission classification Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5 Euro 5
Number of cylinders/
Valves per cylinder 4/4 4/4 6/4 6/4
Displacement in cmÂ³ 1956 1998 2792 2792
Max. output in PS 160 220 260 325
at rpm 4000 5300 5500 5250
Max. torque in Nm 350 (380*) 350 350 (400*) 435
at rpm 1750 - 2500 2000 - 4000 1900 - 4500 5250

* with overboost

DESIGN & EQUIPMENT

Vauxhall Insignia Sports Tourer: functionality wrapped in elegant style

-Insignias award-winning design cues receive fresh take on the Sports Tourer
-Aerodynamically, Vauxhalls sleekest estate car ever
-New upscale look: Indian Summer and Sport Edition trims

With a dedication to detail and an emphasis on craftsman-like quality, the Insignia Sports Tourer offers first class on-board comfort wrapped in an elegant design.

When it first launched, the Insignia took the automotive world by storm, with its award-winning new design language embodied in the motto, â€œSculptural artistry meets technical precision.Â But when designers carried forward the elegant design to the Sports Tourer, they spared no effort in giving the most functional Insignia its own unique look.

With a CD value of just below 0.30, the Insignia Sports Tourer is the most aerodynamic estate car that Vauxhall has ever built. Yet the dynamic, sporty station wagon elegantly conceals its high utility value. The Sports Tourer has retained an identical wheelbase of 2.74 metres as the saloon and hatch, yet added around 8 centimetres to its rear cargo length for an overall dimension of 4.91 metres. The load area length up to the front seats is 1.91 metres and when fully loaded, the Sports Tourer has a maximum capacity of 1530 litres up to the glass-line.

An automatic load levelling system (included with the optional Towing Pack) and the closing support for the manual tailgate, makes closing the back easier. And on SE and Elite models the tailgate that can be electrically opened and closed via the remote control on the key and features a programmable opening height that helps prevent damage to the tailgate, even in garages with low ceilings.

Two fresh trims offer choice of contemporary or sporty look

The Insignia is now offered with premium quality Nappa leather, complemented by a cognac Indian Summer leather and creamyCashmerecoloured stitching. A unique feature of this trim is the contrasting fabric piping surrounding the complete seating area, giving a sophisticated appearance to the interior.

Several different stitching techniques were used in this trim, not only on the seats but also on the door inserts, the steering wheel and the gear lever. The Insignia signature blade is stitched in the seats and floor mats. The interior provides full leather trim, including the door inserts, for a luxurious feel.

â€œFor this year, we created the interior ambiance of a top luxury vehicle that would also feel extremely modern,Â said Mark Adams, Vice President of Design.

Alternatively, buyers can choose the SRi Vx-line model which comes with a black interior. The SRi Vx-line also features the VXR style leather steering wheel and gear shifter, aluminium pedals and dark headliner. Outside, lower front spoiler and rear lower skirt, wider side sills, and 19-inch alloys are included.

Since launch, the Insignia Sports Tourer has come with a new seat material that is an automotive industry first: TopTec nano-technology helps the textile upholstery resist staining and prevent liquids from penetrating it, making it easier to clean than conventional upholstery. TopTec material, available with the beige interior, is as breathable as conventional fabrics and makes it easier for fleet customers as well as families with small children to choose interior trim with a light-coloured upholstery.

Practical features keep car tidy and occupants comfortable

Complementing the Sports Tourers high degree of functionality is a raft of practical features. The FlexOrganiser is a flexible system of nets and foldaway dividers that can be fixed to two horizontal rails running along each side of the load area to keep the car tidy and loose items secure.

The Insignia Sports Tourer offers additional practicality thanks to the many trays and storage areas in the interior, such as the compartments in the front doors that can accommodate a 1.5-litre bottle, a large glove compartment and a closed partition for the driver's valuables. Storage pouches on the backrests of the front seats offer additional space for road maps or other small items.

The Insignias ergonomic seats benefit passengers and drivers alike. Finely-adjustable, the seats help occupants of any size and shape feel comfortable and their ergonomic design offers superb back support. An active ventilation system is available for drivers with the leather Ergonomic Sport Seats. Both the attractively priced fabric version and the upscale leather seat, which is offered in both black or Indian Summer, feature four-way pneumatic lumbar support, improved tilt adjustment, and ergonomic seat contours, including superior side support, body-supporting foam pads and extending seat cushions. Because of these improvements, the sport seats have received a much coveted seal of approval from the independent European group, Action for Healthy Backs.

SPOTLIGHT

Car-Trailer Driving: Practice Makes Perfect

Good drivers think ahead " good car-trailer drivers think even furtherÂ¦

Driving with a trailer is fun, provided drivers know a few basic rules and do not let themselves get distracted. As usual, the golden rule is: practice makes perfect. Before setting out on the first holiday trip with the caravan in tow, a few training sessions in an empty parking lot with a small single-axle trailer can help sharpen the required skills. And a test drive around the dining table with a model car and trailer has often helped in getting fully acquainted with the reverse-driving principle.

A trailer makes the load longer and heavier. This may sound obvious, but it has many practical consequences " even when buying a car. Drivers planning to take to country roads occasionally with a trailer attached should opt for a more powerful engine. The choice will be rewarded with better performance in highway traffic, especially up long inclines. This extra torque also reduces the need to change gears, cutting down wear on the clutch. In fact, best results are achieved with an automatic transmission.

In addition, it is important to get a car with a Trailer Stability Assist program, like the one on the Insignia. TSA reduces trailer yaw " that is, when a trailer starts to swing erratically, the system reacts within milliseconds and immediately stabilizes the car-trailer combination. This safety feature is standard with all Insignia vehicles when the trailer hitch is ordered.

Good drivers think ahead " good car-trailer drivers have to think even further. Getting stuck with a car in the narrow streets of an unfamiliar village can be embarrassing. But if it happens with a caravan in tow, the driver might just find his or her photo on the front page of the local paper the next day. The best advice is to park outside of town and walk in. Similarly, drivers who wait until the fuel light is flashing are likely to find themselves decoupling the caravan to negotiate winding village streets in search of a filling station.

A note about manoeuvring: a car and trailer need more space when turning, because the trailer tracks inwards and cuts the corner. This means that ample extra space must be calculated at tight intersections and hairpin turns on mountain roads " where it is especially important to check for oncoming traffic that could block the manoeuvre. An even more painful lesson can be learned by not remembering that a large caravan also swings outwards when turning sharply because of its long rear overhang. A lot of money can be saved if the front passenger steps out and guides the driver in difficult situations, like when a tight manoeuvre is required at a crowded service station in heavy holiday traffic.

Car and trailer drivers should not be embarrassed to ask passengers for help, especially when reversing. The extra pair of eyes is just as useful when manoeuvring a flat trailer, which is not visible from the drivers seat, as it is for a large caravan, which blocks all rear views.

Four key rules help beginners get used to reversing a trailer/caravan:

1.The trailer moves in the opposite direction to the cars steering wheel, so when the trailer moves left, the driver must counteract by turning right.

2.Manoeuvre slowly: initially little seems to happen, and then the effects are a lot greater than originally expected.

3.Do not overreact when the angle between the car and trailer becomes too tight. The only way to fix this problem is to drive the combination forward and straighten it out again " even old hands at car and trailer driving do this many times when backing up.

4.Often the best alternative " especially on even ground and when weight allows " is to disconnect the trailer completely and push it into position by hand.

And what about the infamous trailer swinging, such as when avoiding an obstacle despite all precautions or because an unexpected gust of wind has destabilised the combination?

Best advice: reduce speed! Do not believe the fairytale, no matter how often it is told: no powerful acceleration will bring the car and trailer back into alignment and no adept steering will get them back under control.

Trailer Stability Assist is a welcome tool to have

TSA is activated in the towing vehicle as soon as the ESPPlus system detects the trailer is beginning to steer off course. This sophisticated safety function is integrated in the ESPPlus system and activated as soon as the trailer is coupled with the 13-pin connector. Data is constantly processed and compared to the predetermined limits set in the system parameters. If a trailer begins to swing and exceeds a certain limit, it is counteracted within milliseconds by throttle closure and brake application until stability is restored. After the third excessive swing, a defined brake pressure is applied to steady the car-trailer combination.

This safety measure, which is pivotal in every safety training course for car-trailer drivers, is automatically taken care of by the car. However, Trailer Stability Assist does not intervene in drivers actions during an extreme or sudden avoidance manoeuvre, for instance.

Over many years of extensive test drives, Vauxhalls specialists have examined the car-trailer combinations handling performance with different trailer loads and speeds. After thousands of data results were collected, the limits were defined in the system parameters. These ensure that the trailer stability reacts appropriately " and especially sensitively " according to speed, yaw and frequency. Light swerving on the highway does not lead to sudden, unnecessary braking for example.

Though the trailer stability program cannot be seen, it is a welcome tool to have. Just like the trailer hitch itself: When the hitch no longer is needed, it retracts under the car, allowing the Insignia to retain its good looks.

TECHNOLOGY & INNOVATION

GLOSSARY

Adaptive 4x4

The four-wheel drive systems proactive, instantaneous torque distribution adapts to prevailing road conditions, ensuring optimal driving stability, traction and dynamic handling performance. Under electronic control, the Haldex hydraulic rear clutch unit continuously adjusts and optimises drive torque distribution between the front and rear axles.

All-Wheel Drive (AWD) Control Module

Using data from engine, chassis and ESP modules, the AWD controls torque distribution of centre and rear axle differential.

IntelligentAdaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+)

The Intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) system automatically adapts light beams to prevailing weather and driving conditions for added safety. The Insignias AFL uses powerful bi-xenon headlamps and provides nine lighting functions: town light, pedestrian area light, country road light, highway light, adverse weather light, static cornering light, dynamic curve light, LED daytime running lights and high beam light assistant.

Aktion Gesunder RÃƒÆ’Â¼cken (AGR) Seal of Approval

A much-coveted seal of approval froman independent panel of experts in Germany, Aktion Gesunder RÃƒÆ’Â¼cken e.V. (Action for Healthy Backs, known as AGR) was awarded to the Insignia sport seat for its ergonomic excellence.

Active Head Restraints

This passive safety feature reduces the risk of whiplash in the event of rear-end collisions. It is standard on Insignia front seats. Engineers integrated a Bowden cable into the seat back, sending the head restraint forward to its full height, guided by a sensor, within a split second of impact. It locks automatically the instant it makes contact with the head.

Body Control Module (BCM)

The BCM sends data from steering-angle sensor to the AWD control module.

Crash box

Two crash boxes are located between the bumper cross members and the body. Their constructively predefined, energy-absorbing shape helps prevent costly damage to supporting components in the event of mild collisions. The screwed-on crash boxes can be replaced easily and at low expense.

Driving Mode Control (DMC)

The Driving Mode Control (DMC) unit oversees and executes FlexRide selections and constantly adapts the chassis set-up variables to the prevailing driving conditions when in Standard or Tour mode. DMC monitors vehicle speed, how often and hard the brakes are engaged, how quickly the driver depresses the brake pedal, lateral acceleration in curves and engine power.

Engine Control Unit (ECU)

The ECU sends data such as engine torque, engine speed and throttle pedal position to the AWD control module over the CAN Bus.

Electric Parking Brake (EPB)

Easy-to-operate parking brake makes the conventional handbrake superfluous. EPB is activated by a button on the centre tunnel which sends an electrical impulse to the actuators in the rear brake calipers. The EPB can secure the car on gradients as steep as 30 per cent. In emergency braking situations, the car can also be halted by simply pushing the button. EPB is combined with a Hill Start Assist for vehicles with manual transmission.

Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD)

Electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) is another pressurised clutch plate that is installed with Adaptive 4x4 alongside the Rear Drive Module (RDM). The eLSD can transfer up to 1200Nm of drive torque across the rear axle to whichever wheel has more grip. This enables an electronically controlled distribution of the engine torque front-to-rear and left-to-right, which results in more driving stability and driving fun.

Electronic Stability Program (ESP) Module

In addition to maintaining stability, the ESP Module transmits data such as wheel speed, brake-light switch, ABS active, ESP active, yaw rate and lateral acceleration to the AWD control module.

Euro 5 Emission Standards

Stringent new European emission standards effective September 1, 2009, requiring substantially lower exhaust emissions. For example, nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions have been reduced from 80 to 60 milligrams per kilometre for petrol engines compared to Euro 4; Euro 5 diesel units may only emit 180 as opposed to 250mg NOx per km. All Insignia engines are already Euro 5 certified.

Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)

Exhaust Gas Recirculation is used to reduce the amount of nitrogen oxides (NOx) produced from the combustion of fuel in petrol and diesel engines. EGR is particularly significant in the case of a lean combustion mix. Mixing exhaust gas with incoming fresh air lowers the calorific value of the intake charge, which means it does not reach the temperature necessary when burnt in the combustion chamber to produce nitrogen oxides. To fulfill the Euro 5 emission standards, the re-circulated exhaust gases are also cooled. In a gasoline engine, EGR also reduces throttling losses. For diesel engines, another advantage is a â€œsofterÂ combustion, which produces less engine noise.

FlexRide

Vauxhalls FlexDrive chassis system with its Adaptive Stability Technology helps the car adjust to prevailing driving conditions and allows drivers to select settings to match their mood. In addition to the comfortable Standard ride setting, FlexRide enables the driver to select a relaxed (Tour) or a firmer, crisper suspension set-up (Sport) at the press of a button. FlexRide adjusts a number of parameters including damper stiffness, accelerator pedal response, Variable Effort Steering and ESP intervention.

Petrol Direct Injection (DI)

On the 2.0 Turbo engine of the Insignia, using direct petrol injection, the fuel is highly pressurized (200 bar) and injected directly into the combustion chamber, instead of the intake manifold. Direct injection ensures a much more thorough combustion of the fuel/air mixture, improving fuel consumption as well as engine power, and is particularly effective in combination with turbocharging. It has been used by Vauxhall in series production engines since 2003

LED Daytime Running Lamps

The distinctive lighting graphic in the front light units makes the Insignia unmistakable. This innovation benefits fuel consumption as the LED lights require considerably less electrical power than conventional low beam headlamps.

Pedal Release System (PRS) The brake and clutch pedals are automatically released at a particular level of impact to protect the drivers feet and lower legs in the event of a frontal collision.

Power Take-off Unit (PTU)

The PTU is in the front final-drive and transmits engine torque to the centre differential.

Quickheat

This heating system prevents windshields from fogging and speeds up interior warming. It activates automatically depending on outside and engine coolant temperatures.

Rear Drive Module (RDM)

Structural unit consisting of TTD, eLSD und AWD control module.

Seat Occupancy Detection

This sensor prevents the front and side airbags from being activated on the passenger side when the seat is not occupied or when it contains a transponder-equipped childs seat. This also informs the driver when passengers have not secured their safety belts " for the first time in the Insignia, this warning is also given for occupants in the rear.

Solar Protect Heat-absorbing Glazing

Dark-tinted heat-absorbing glazing in rear keeps vehicles interior temperature from rising.

SolarReflect Windshield

A thin metallic oxide film sandwiched between the laminated glass panels of the windscreen reflects the sunlights non-visible infrared rays and reduces temperatures in the vehicles interior by up to ten degrees Celsius.

Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS)

TPMS employs special sensors in each tyre valve which recognise deviations from the correct tyre pressure with a precision of up to 10kPa. The relevant tyre warning signal is activated in the information display whenever pressure losses exceed 30kPa. New with the Insignia is a self-learning control device that independently recognises when a tyre has been changed.

Torque Transfer Device (TTD)

Electronically controlled centre differential. Controls torque distribution between front and rear axles irrespective of axle speed.

Twin-Scroll Turbocharger

A twin-scroll turbocharger uses two separate channels to feed exhaust gases to the turbine wheel. This improves gas flow, ensuring a faster throttle response and virtually eliminates turbo lag at low engine speeds (on petrol 2.0 Turbo and 2.8 V6 Turbo engines)

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