Vauxhall Insignia VXR hatchback (2009 – ) expert review

The standard Vauxhall Insignia is quite a looker, and the sporty tweaks bestowed on the VXR model means it has the bark to match its bite. Inspired by the Opel GTC concept from 2007, the Insignia VXR has deeper bumpers with mesh intakes on either side of the main grille at the front, plus a new apron that integrates dual matt chrome exhausts. Spec the gorgeous 20-inch alloys for £1,100 and it really looks the part.

Vauxhall has worked wonders with the Insignia’s cabin, and the VXR adds a host of racy addenda. Comfortable and supportive Recaro seats and VXR-logo’d steering wheel, gearknob and sill plates lift the VXR above the other models. One nice touch is the dash illumination which transforms from crisp white to fierce red when the VXR sport button is pressed.

Space and pace comes as standard with the Vauxhall Insignia VXR. The hatch and saloon have best-in-class load-lugging abilities with 500 litres of boot space, and the Sports Tourer adds another 40 litres making it the fastest estate Vauxhall has ever built. There’s plenty of room in the cabin too, making it a great alternative to a hot hatch.

The VXR is the only Insignia to make really good use of Vauxhall’s Adaptive 4×4 system. It’s possible to feel the power shifting back and forth and at speed the car appears to adopt a slight natural oversteer stance. But despite this, grip levels are excellent thanks to an electronic limited-slip differential and Vauxhall’s torque steer-reducing Hiperstrut front suspension, which also serves to maintain negative camber during cornering. Ride quality is very good, even on the optional 20-inch alloys fitted to our test car (19s come as standard) and the steering is well weighted and offers a decent feedback.

No models in the standard Insignia range feel particularly quick, but the VXR redresses the balance. The hatch and saloon will reach 60mph in 5.6 seconds while the Sports Tourer will get there 0.3 seconds later. The top speed of all three models is limited to 155mph. But what impresses is how it delivers its 325bhp and 321lb/ft of torque. It is hugely quick but always feels muscular throughout the rev range – making a nice noise on the way thanks to the bespoke exhaust system. Stopping is powerful too, with big Brembo brakes plus vented and cross-drilled discs.

Powerful saloons come with big running costs. Vauxhall claims the turbocharged V6 engine will clock an average of 33mpg, but drive it with a moderately heavy foot and you’ll be into the twenties. Insurance will be steep and road tax costly. But, the well equipped Insignia VXR starts at £31,000; several thousand pounds less than the more spartan Audi S4. Vauxhall’s servicing costs are reasonable too.

The engine is a proven unit, and there have been few issues with the standard Insignia since its 2008 launch. Vauxhall says the VXR has undergone an extensive test programme at the Nurburgring which should theoretically have revealed any issues.

The Vauxhall Insignia put in a good performance in the EuroNCAP crash test programme, gaining a full five-star rating. Standard kit includes driver, front passenger, curtain and side airbags and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

Vauxhall has covered all the basics, with features like electric windows, remote central locking, electric mirrors and climate control. The Insignia VXR also gets a comprehensive audio/sat-nav system, electric park brake, a bespoke exhaust system, big Brembo brakes and all manner of extra performance parts.

The Vauxhall Insignia strikes a perfect balance between the hard-edged Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution and the GT-like comfort of the Audi S4 with a competitive price tag. This used to be a part of the car market awash with options, but today the Vauxhall Insignia VXR stands alone.