Based on the 2009 European Car of the Year, the high-performance Insignia will be Vauxhall’s first VXR model to adopt 4X4 technology. It uses a bespoke chassis developed through an extensive test programme at the gruelling Nürburgring circuit in Germany.
Powerful performance
At the heart of the Insignia VXR is Vauxhall’s advanced 2.8-litre V6 Turbo ECOTEC engine that helps produce 325PS 435 Nm torque. The engine uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control for quick throttle response, and accelerates from 0-60mph in just 5.6 seconds with a top speed of 155mph.
Dynamic design
The Insignia VXR's design was inspired by the GTC concept and hence shares many of its styling cues – it has a deeper bumper, incorporating bold, twin mesh grilles either side of the main grille which dominates the front of the car. The rear has the bespoke VXR bumper moulding incorporating dual matt-chrome exhausts.
Bespoke chassis settings and unique, new front suspension design
Using a significant evolution of the regular MacPherson strut front suspension found on the Insignia, Vauxhall’s engineers have created a new architecture for all Insignia VXR models, based around the HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut). This improves grip and allows more power to be applied during cornering.
Bespoke Brembo braking system & Pirelli P Zero tyres
The Insignia VXR’s braking system has been substantially upgraded to cater for the extra performance potential. The result is a joint set-up between Italian specialist, Brembo, and VXR’s engineers which comprises four-pot front callipers, vented and perforated front discs. Complementing this package are Pirelli P Zero 245/40 tyres, fitted to standard, flow-formed 19-inch rims. Forged aluminium 20-inch wheels with 255/35 tyres are optional.
Sporty interior
The sporting theme inside the VXR’s cabin. Recaro front seats, a new VXR steering wheel, VXR gear knob and unique mouldings are standard on all cars, along with different instrument graphics, VXR sill plates and a black headlining.
VXR seats – the perfect combination of comfort and grip
In collaboration with sports and racing seat manufacturer, Recaro, Vauxhall ‘s engineers have developed bespoke High Performance front seats for the Insignia VXR. Seat engineers replaced the traditional suspension system of the seat back with a plastic shell. The racing-like contour is made possible by the use of injection-moulded plastic.
New Insignia VXR Sports Tourer
Combining all the technical highlights of the VXR hatch and saloon with best in class-matching luggage capacity (with rear seats up), the VXR Sports Tourer version is not only the fastest estate car Vauxhall has ever produced, but also the first to incorporate Adaptive 4X4 and an electronic limited slip differential.
A 540-litre load space behind its 60:40 split rear seats increases to 1530-litres with the seats down. And accessing this area has never been easier, thanks to the VXR Sports Tourer’s standard electronic tailgate, which can be operated off the driver’s key fob, or via a rotary knob on the inside of the driver’s door.
For more information on the new Insignia VXR, visit vxr.co.uk where you can find more images, specifications and preview brochure.