Opel has just unveiled its latest D-segment van, the new Insignia Sports Tourer. Given the importance of vans in the German brand's history, it's safe to say that this is one of Opel's most important models for 2017 — and no, we're not forgetting Opel's new SUV's.
As such, it was with high expectations that Opel's CEO, Karl-Thomas Neumann, presented the model highlighting the technological component:
“Our new top of the range brings high technology to everyone, with affordable systems that make driving safer and more comfortable. Then there is the interior space, which meets virtually all transport needs, whether for work or leisure. And it's impossible to ignore the driving experience – truly dynamic. The Insignia is much more efficient than before and offers the latest generation of our adaptive FlexRide chassis.”
On the outside, a van with “skin” by Monza Concept
In terms of aesthetics, just like the saloon, the new Insignia Sports Tourer will draw various details from the bold Monza Concept prototype that Opel presented at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show. overall dimensions of the car compared to the previous van – almost 5 meters long, 1.5 meters high and a wheelbase of 2,829 meters.
In profile, the most dominant feature is the chrome line that runs across the roof and down to integrate with the rear light groups, which are slightly more prominent in their “double wing” shape – Opel's traditional signature.
Inside, more space for passengers (and beyond)
Naturally, the slight increase in dimensions makes itself felt in the interior: 31 mm more in height, 25 mm in width at shoulder level and another 27 mm at seat level. Available as an option, the panoramic glass roof adds a more luxurious and “open-space” ambience.PRESENTATION: This is the new Opel Crossland X
Judging by the luggage compartment volume, the effort to make the new generation of the Insignia Sports Tourer more elegant and even sporty has not compromised the more practical side of this van. Compared to the previous model, the trunk has a maximum capacity of 100 liters more, growing to 1640 liters with the rear seats folded down. In addition, the FlexOrganizer system, made up of adjustable rails and dividers, allows you to store different types of luggage.
To facilitate loading and unloading operations, the boot lid can be opened and closed with a simple movement of the foot under the rear bumper (similar to what happens with the new Astra Sports Tourer), without having to resort to using the remote control or the key on the trunk lid.
More technology and a wider range of engines
In addition to the range of technologies already announced for the Insignia Grand Sport, the Insignia Sports Tourer debuts the second generation of adaptive IntelliLux headlamps, made up of LED arrays that react even faster than the previous generation. The Insignia Sports Tourer is also the brand's first model with an active engine bonnet, that is, the bonnet is raised in milliseconds to increase the distance to the engine, in order to ensure greater protection for pedestrians in the event of an accident. .
Furthermore, we will be able to count on the latest versions of Apple CarPlay and Android, the Opel OnStar roadside and emergency assistance system and the usual driving assistance systems such as the 360º Camera or the Side Traffic Alert.
Dynamically, the Insignia Sports Tourer returns the all-wheel drive system with torque vectoring, replacing the traditional rear differential with two electrically controlled multi-disc clutches. In this way, the delivery of torque to each wheel is precisely controlled, improving road behavior in all conditions, whether the surface is more or less slippery. The configuration of the new FlexRide chassis can also be adjusted by the driver via the Standard, Sport or Tour driving modes.
The new Insignia Sports Tourer will be available with a range of supercharged petrol and diesel engines, very similar to what you'll find on the Opel Insignia Grand Sport. In this regard, it is worth noting the debut of a new eight-speed automatic transmission, available exclusively in versions with all-wheel drive system.
The new Opel Insignia Sports Tourer is expected to hit the domestic market in spring, but will first appear at the next Geneva Motor Show, in March.