Vauxhall Insignia Hatchback (2009 - 2017) 1.8i 16V SRi 5d (2013/13) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It's practical, excellent value, reliable and well built. Some will think it says I don't like decent cars but I do. However, I am also sensible (like the car).

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

They really like it. Everyone has complimented its looks. Those that have been in it like the comfort and space.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Absolutely. Just because it is such excellent value for money. Depreciation? Bother about that if you buy it new - my 2nd hand BMW 3 series and VW Passat lost me more money in depreciation than the two Vectra's I had. I am sure this will be the same.

What are you likely to buy next?

I get a new (2nd hand) car about every two years. This is my third Vauxhall. I have also had Audi, Jaguar, Saab, BMW and VW. 1-2-3 for me would be Insignia, Vectra, Vectra. Next is likely to be another Vauxhall or an Avensis.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£11,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Yes, a good price on my Passat (I was so glad to see the back of that) and the Insignia represented excellent value for money in comparison.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What a lot of car you get for the money! 10 months old, more toys than my Passat, comfortable, over two years warranty (read peace of mind), good looking, I can live with the engine/performance and I can live with the emissions/tax. It's not as sharp to drive as other cars in the class - well I don't drive them that way and don't notice the difference.

What was the dealer like?

Very good indeed. No messing, best prices on the table straight away (take it or leave it). I had done the research and knew that the offer on my car and the Insignia were both good.

What's it like to drive?

Not being a racing driver, I doubt my opinion counts for some people. If, like me, you are an average driver (in terms of I don't blast around twisty "B" roads ... but I am an ex-professional driver), comfortable and relaxing. Critics say steering is "over-assisted", I hadn't noticed, do they mean when parking it? (Or when doing 105 round those twisty "B" roads?). It will not leave you exhilarated but I bought an Insignia 1.8 not a Porsche and - let's be fair - for the money who cares that much about performance? If you do, you're looking at the wrong car. Go and look at something else.

What's it like to park?

Simple enough if you are used to larger cars. No parking beepers but then none on other cars I've had either. I get along fine.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Nothing at all. If it does go wrong, it's under warranty. It certainly lives up to my expectations.

What's most practical about your car?

Size and comfort. Built for long distances.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

More than one - the multi-function display contains useful information and is easy to navigate, cruise control (missing on my Passat), Auto lights and wipers.