Holden Insignia VXR

Holden’s performance vehicles have definitely been enhanced by the introduction of the German designed Holden Insignia.  I rate this as one of the nicest designs on the road at present.  Its flowing, muscular lines are aggressive and very aggregable.  Vigorous performance from a V6 Turbo engine and lovely specced interiors make the Insignia an enjoyable car that, at present, is a rare presence on Australian roads.

Not only is there a load of performance on offer, the AWD chassis provides superior grip in all conditions.  The Holden Insignia sits low on the tarmac, providing excellent body control at any speed -even when the cornering is fast.  Ride quality is nice, and the cabin remains quiet at motorway speeds.  There is a lovely low rumble from the V6 when the engine is asked to deliver quick acceleration.  It’s a driver’s car, and one that is happy to be classed as a GT.

Three modes of suspension control are offered.  In the Touring mode, steering, throttle and suspension settings are relaxed to provide the perfect cruising feel.  Sports mode provides sharper handling blended with comfort.  Sharper throttle and steering response, and firm suspension for flat cornering combine to give you an incredibly potent and capable sports machine when the VXR mode is dialled in.

Holden’s Insignia VXR is AWD and, along with the advanced AWD technology, the torque transfer device allocates engine torque between the front and rear wheels, providing added grip and performance.  An electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) distributes torque between the left and right rear wheels giving the car superior traction.  Not only has the Insignia got a load or performance potential, the braking power is equally strong.  The combination of 20-inch rubber and 4-piston Brembo brakes work a treat, with cross-drilled discs standard all-round.

Holden Insignia VXR Interior

Behind the wheel of the Holden Insignia, a stylish dash is involving yet simple to use.  The chunky steering wheel sits snuggly in the driver’s palms, and there are multiple functions that can be controlled via the switches on the steering wheel.  Zoned climate control works quickly and very effectively whatever the desired temperature, and on cold mornings the Insignia quickly clears away any condensation on the windows.  Electric front seats, heated front seats, power windows, a surround sound premium audio system, satellite navigation, Bluetooth communications and leather sports seats provide the perfect environment for enjoying your drive.  MyLink with Phone Projection and seven-speaker sound link with DAB and Digital Radio Plus, Bluetooth Audio Streaming and Apple Carplay are available for the ultimate in favourite music tracks.  We all know about how good Spotify is, and this feature is standard on the Insignia.

The Holden Insignia VXR feels a safe car to drive.  The five-star safety rating was a very strong result and a credit to the design team.  Adaptive front head lighting, LED daytime running lights and active safety features like ESC and Active Cruise Control, are standard features on this very advanced medium-to-large size sedan.

Under the bonnet lies a 2.8-litre Twin-scroll turbocharged V6 petrol engine.  This engine is linked to a six-speed automatic transmission with Active Select and paddle-shifters.  Power output is 239 kW at 5250 rpm, and the torque figure is 435 Nm at 5250 rpm.  A 0-100 km/h sprint is over in around 6 seconds, while the top speed is limited to 250 km/h.  Those who have disconnected the limiter can reach speeds well north of 270 km/h.

There is no doubt that driving a new Holden Insignia VXR will draw attention.  The car’s dignified and distinctive looks are very classy, aerodynamic and attractive.  As has been the case in the past, Opel have worked with Holden to sell their premium models.  The Holden Insignia is the same as the successful Opel Insignia in Europe.

In Australia, the Holden Insignia model series includes the:

• Insignia VXR

For any more information on the Holden Insignia or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181.  If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Holden dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!