2018-2020 Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport 1.5 Turbo (140 Hp)

The Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport 1.5 Turbo, produced from 2018 to 2020, represents a significant iteration of Vauxhall’s D-segment offering. As a liftback, it aimed to blend practicality with a more stylish profile than the traditional sedan. While the Insignia nameplate was primarily marketed in Europe, particularly the United Kingdom, it was a key model for Vauxhall (and its sister brand Opel) in competing with established rivals like the Ford Mondeo, Volkswagen Passat, and Peugeot 508. The “Grand Sport” designation signified the liftback body style, offering increased cargo versatility compared to the earlier hatchback and saloon versions. This model focused on providing a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and modern features for family and fleet buyers.

Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport: An Overview

The Insignia II, launched in 2017, was a comprehensive redesign of the original Insignia, addressing criticisms of the first generation’s interior quality and driving dynamics. The Grand Sport variant, with its sloping roofline and integrated tailgate, was positioned as the more dynamic and visually appealing option. The 1.5 Turbo engine, producing 140 horsepower, was a key engine choice, offering a good compromise between performance and economy. It was designed to appeal to drivers seeking a comfortable and efficient vehicle for daily commuting and longer journeys.

Engine & Performance

The heart of the Insignia II Grand Sport 1.5 Turbo is a 1.5-liter inline four-cylinder gasoline engine, designated D15XFL. This engine utilizes direct fuel injection and a turbocharger with an intercooler to deliver 140 horsepower at 5600 rpm and 250 Nm (184.39 lb.-ft.) of torque between 2000 and 4100 rpm. This configuration provides a respectable power-to-weight ratio, allowing for a maximum speed of 208 km/h (129.25 mph). The engine’s specific output is 94 horsepower per liter, demonstrating a focus on efficiency. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a six-speed manual transmission in this configuration. The inclusion of a Start & Stop system further enhances fuel economy, particularly in urban driving conditions. Fuel consumption is rated between 6.1 and 6.8 liters per 100 kilometers (38.6 – 34.6 US mpg), with CO2 emissions of 122 g/km, meeting Euro 6d-TEMP emission standards.

Design & Features

The Insignia II Grand Sport boasts a sleek, contemporary liftback design. Its long wheelbase (2829 mm / 111.38 in) and relatively wide track contribute to a stable and comfortable ride. The vehicle measures 4897 mm (192.8 in) in length and 1863 mm (73.35 in) in width, providing ample interior space for passengers and cargo. A key feature of the Grand Sport is its generous cargo capacity, ranging from 490 liters (17.3 cu. ft.) with the rear seats up to 1450 liters (51.21 cu. ft.) with them folded down. Standard safety features included ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and a comprehensive airbag system. The interior was a significant improvement over the first-generation Insignia, with higher-quality materials and a more modern dashboard layout. Electric power steering and independent suspension (McPherson strut front, multi-link rear) contribute to a refined driving experience. The drag coefficient of 0.26 aids in aerodynamic efficiency.

Technical Specifications

The Vauxhall Insignia II Grand Sport 1.5 Turbo offered a compelling package for buyers in the European market, combining practicality, efficiency, and a degree of style. While not a performance flagship, it provided a comfortable and capable option for everyday driving.