The SRi VX-Line bundle brings a welcome diploma of visible aptitude however with out indulging overly within the type of ‘boy racer’ stick-on addenda you may affiliate with the acronym – souped-up Nova, anyone? Bumpers are suitably sporty at each ends, and the two-tone 20in alloys go some solution to lending a little bit of kerb enchantment (and a great deal of kerb vulnerability – you’ll cringe your approach via high-kerbed multi-storey automotive parks). It’s a disgrace to not have the property at our disposal, however the long-roof automotive’s pleasing proportions did not translate into sturdy gross sales, and so the Insignia is, today, a one-shape-fits-all resolution.
Upon entry, any phantasm of charisma is shortly quashed by the Insignia’s steadfastly bland cabin decor; the latest facelift wrought few tangible revisions to the inside, and so that you’re met by a sea of not-all-too-premium-feeling black plastic and leatherette. It’s arduous to not take concern with such unimaginative design when different PSA manufacturers are efficiently forging their very own distinct – and interesting – inside identities. However as is the case with the Corsa and Mokka, the Insignia wins again some marks for all key capabilities being inside attain and clearly seen, a smart stability between contact and bodily controls, and an intuitive driving place with loads of adjustability. The sloping roof means taller passengers will likely be happier within the entrance seats, however legroom in each rows is greater than ample, and whereas its 490-litre boot gained’t win class honours, there’s room for the weekly store and lots extra apart from.
We’ll single out our take a look at automotive’s seats for a point out: they’re properly cushioned and reassuringly agency, however their ‘sporting’ bent means the bolsters are so shut collectively that I nearly phoned up Joe Wicks to complain about my pre-summer weight reduction routine. He’s off the hook, although, as a a lot smaller passenger mentioned a lot the identical factor as me. Undoubtedly a degree to think about, as simply 10 miles could be sufficient to have you ever shuffling round to discover a extra snug place.
The Insignia in any other case makes for a reliable long-haul cruiser. Rolling noise is stored to a minimal at pace – and would little question be even higher subdued with chunkier rubber underfoot – and it clears gaps within the Tarmac with spectacular composure. The two.0-litre turbo petrol engine, whereas not as rorty because the nameplate and ornament would recommend, serves up its 197bhp and 258lb ft convincingly, pushing the Insignia to 62mph in 7.2sec.
