What's the news?
If you've just spotted one of these then it may already be too late - get your trousers on, sunshine; you're nicked etc. This is the Opel Insignia Sports Tourer, all nicely done up in its new Garda Traffic Corps colours, part of a fleet of 20 to join the Traffic Corps this month.
Opel says that the cars have been 'custom specified' by the Gardaí, which would be something of a first - normally the Phoenix Park just chooses the cheapest saloons it can lay its hands on. These Insignias do seem to be fit for purpose though, not least because they're all packing the new 2.0-litre CDTI diesel engine with 195hp.
It's equipped with two turbos, one larger than the other. They operate separately or together as required to ensure quick engine response from low revs: 400Nm of torque is developed from only 1,750rpm (with 350Nm from only 1,500rpm). The smaller turbo, which minimises lag at low engine speeds, uses a water-cooled intercooler, while the bigger turbo uses a larger air-cooled intercooler at higher engine speeds. Compared to single-turbo Insignia 2.0 CDTi engines, the BiTurbo has higher performance pistons, camshafts, cylinder head and gasket to deal with the extra power. Despite all this performance-focused technology, it is fuel-efficient and emits 129g/km.
High performance brakes are fitted with the larger diameter front discs being ventilated and gaining four-piston brake callipers with larger pads for superior braking ability. Manual handbrakes replace the normal electric handbrakes for operational effectiveness reasons. Meanwhile the 17-inch alloy wheels maximise airflow for effective brake cooling.
The vehicles, wrapped in the traditional Traffic Corps livery, were unveiled at a press event with the Taoiseach and An Garda Síochána Traffic Corps last week at their headquarters in the Phoenix Park and will be provided to Garda traffic units around the country.
Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland said: "Opel have a vast experience in developing cars that provide surefooted performance and with the specifications that we have provided with these Insignia Sports Tourers, they are ideally equipped to support the safe and efficient patrolling of our Irish Motorways."
Anything else?
Of course, the Insignia is fitted with the highest safety features with front, side and curtain airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners. Active safety front head restraints ensure minimal impact to the neck in the event of an incident. Meanwhile, LED daytime running lights and front fog lights have been fitted to enhance the already highly visible livery.