Luxor metallic paint and restyled wheels – these could be some of the differences you may be seeing in the new version of the Opel Insignia. In comparison to its predecessor, the 2012 model’s exterior remains untouched. Storage of map data in an SD card enabling easy updating, new ‘Indian Night’ Nappa leather seats and an improved front camera system with a Forward Collision Alert System shows that it has come a long way since its earlier version.

The model comes with a new turbo charged 1.4 litre ecoFLEX petrol engine that produces 140 PS (103 kW/138 hp) and a torque of 200 Nm (147 lb-ft). Other prominent features include six-speed manual transmission, an engine start/stop system, power steering, an aerodynamic underbody and 17 inch wheels with low rolling resistance tyres.

With the new engine, Insignia accelerates from 0-100km/hour in 10.9 seconds and acquires an improved fuel efficiency of 5.7 litre/100 km.

Meanwhile, the all-wheel drive model with a turbocharged 2.0 litre engine has been upgraded for 250 PS (185 kW/ 248 hp) and a torque of 400 Nm (295 lb-ft). The variant accelerates 0-100 km/hour in 7.5 seconds when connected to a six-speed manual transmission.  With the installation of an engine start/stop system fuel consumption and carbon emissions are reduced.

The front-wheel drive model with 2.0 litre turbo charged engine develops 220 PS (162 kW/ 217 hp) and comes with identical features.