The new Opel Insignia GSi is a precision instrument. Ten millimetres closer to the road than a normal Insignia and at least 160 kilograms lighter than the previous-generation Insignia OPC. With intelligent all-wheel-drive, which sends a perfectly dosed amount of power to each individual wheel thanks to torque vectoring. This improves handling even further and eliminates annoying understeer. Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres on 20-inch rims ensure an outstanding level of grip, while the powerful Brembo brakes guarantee short braking distances and maximum safety.
Furthermore, the direct steering, adjustable shock absorbers along with the engine and transmission control are interlinked and react sharply when the Sport Mode is activated.
The Opel engineers have treated the GSi to a new chassis compared to the new Insignia. Shorter springs lower the GSi by 10mm and special sports shock absorbers reduce body movements to a minimum. The powerful Brembo four-piston brakes (diameter 345mm) and the already direct steering were adapted accordingly.
The Insignia GSi is equipped as standard with the mechatronic FlexRide chassis. It adapts shock absorbers and steering in fractions of a second; the control unit also changes the calibration of the accelerator pedal and the shift points of the 8-speed automatic gearbox.
The driver can choose between Standard, Tour and Sport modes. Subject to the chosen mode, steering and throttle-response is then even more direct. Exclusive to the GSi is the Competition mode, which is activated via the ESP button. A double-press allows skilful drivers more yaw and switches off traction control – for a fast lap of the Nordschleife, for example.
The sports-chassis, developed in combination with the extra grippy Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tyres and big 20-inch wheels, offers almost limpet-like levels of adhesion. A major contribution comes from the all-wheel-drive system with torque vectoring fitted as standard, which is unique in this segment.
In this high-tech system, a conventional differential on the rear axle is replaced by two clutches, which can accelerate each rear wheel individually in fractions of a second, depending on the driving situation.
The sports saloon is powered by an impressive gasoline turbo engine that combines fuel efficiency with performance. The powerful turbo 2-litre 4-cylinder produces 260bhp and develops generous torque of 400Nm.
Both 4-cylinder units are mated to an all-new 8-speed automatic transmission. The driver has the option of shifting gears via paddles at the steering wheel without taking his hands off the steering wheel or his eyes off the road. In addition, the shift points of the automatic transmission can be pre-selected via the Standard and Sport modes.
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