Vauxhall Insignia Hatchback (2009 - 2017) 2.0 CDTi SRi Nav (160bhp) 5d (2011/11) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not a lot. There's so many of them that they kind of just blend in to the background.

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

They love it and think it looks really nice. My wife found the passenger seat a little bit uncomfortable at first as it doesn't have any lumbar support.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Not this model, no. I'm not happy with the ride quality and I miss a few extras like auto wipers and a dimming rearview mirror. I may go for the facelift model which have suspension improvements and it would be a softer sprung one like an SE or an Elite, which also have the extra toys.

What are you likely to buy next?

Maybe a Passat or Mondeo, but I might downsize to Seat Leon FR as I fancy going back to a petrol - the 1.4 turbo looks great.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£10,000

When did you buy the car?

September 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Car was relatively cheap for a Vauxhall main dealer, especially as it included a 1 year warranty and low mileage (21k miles at 3 years old).

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Excellent value for spec and price, as well as 1 year Network Q warranty from main dealer.

What was the dealer like?

Friendly enough. Had to fight to get a mediocre part ex on my old car. Didn't question the repairs that were needed under warranty. When it was in for repair the trim near the window was damaged, but they replaced it after I noticed it.

What's it like to drive?

It handles relatively well around the bends, but on rough roads there can be a jarring vibration through the car. It also tramlines a bit due to the 18" alloy wheels with low profile tyres. I also find the gearbox quite notchy. It's nice and smooth on the motorway though.

What's it like to park?

Not easy. Rear visibility is poor and I don't have parking sensors. The car is also quite long and wide, and you can't see the end of the bonnet very well.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Turbo boost solenoid (very very common fault), front suspension arms (1st replacement set failed instantly, 2nd set now ok), brake discs were warped when I first got the car, but replaced under warranty, discs are now warped again after 12k miles.

What's most practical about your car?

Boot is huge! Headlights come on when you unlock the car at night so you can see where you're walking. Puddle lights in the bottom of the front doors really help.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Bluetooth hands free works very well, stereo with ipod control is great and sounds good, rear air vents really help cool the car down in the back in summer.