Vauxhall will launch a GSi version of its new Insignia Sports Tourer later this year, using the same 252bhp driveline as the recently launched Grand Sport GSi hatchback.
As shown by an Opel estate testing in Germany, the Insignia estate model, badged as a Vauxhall in Britain, will get the same treatment as its hatch sibling, including a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that outputs 252bhp and 295lb ft.
The Insignia GSi has been revealed. Read about it here
It will come mated to a new eight-speed automatic gearbox with paddle shifters that sends drive to all four wheels. The fronts will distribute torque via an electronic differential lock, but the rears will get a more complex twin-clutch system, developed by British engineering firm GKN.
The system, which is shared with models such as the Range Rover Evoque and Ford Focus RS, is capable of torque vectoring to improve agility. A prototype version of the layout was tested in an old Insignia VXR by Autocar last year.
Vauxhall claims that its Insignia GSi is quicker around the Nürburgring than the previous VXR, despite being down on power by 69bhp. It attributes this to the driveline’s improved agility and the new Insignia’s structure, which is 160kg lighter. The Sports Tourer is expected to benefit from the same improvements.
Vauxhall has yet to confirm details, but the Insignia Sports Tourer GSi will likely get a stiffer four-link rear suspension set-up than the GSi hatch in order to enable a higher load carrying capacity. Aside from that, no other chassis adjustments are expected.
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A black one with a black pack window trim
Might solve some of the issues. Agree price quality engineering this is terrific value.
If only this wagon looked
If only this wagon looked better and didn't have such a terrible D pillar treatment. GME shot themselves in the foot again.
VFM
If indeed it does come out at £25,000'ish I'd love to see a shot out betweeen this a very base 5 series and a base Mondeo Estate. Just for thoroughness include a trip up north 'in the snow' and a track day. Nothing comes close to it in terms of money!