What's the news?
Anyone old enough to remember the original Astra and Corsa GSi models will no doubt have felt betrayed at Opel's recent efforts with cars bearing the GSi badge. That's set to change though, as the new Insignia is getting a performance treatment that looks likely to be more than worthy of the GSi moniker.
Chrome air intakes, a discreet rear spoiler and 20-inch wheels form the visual clues from the outside, with specially-designed sports seats and a choice of leather trim upping the ambience in the cabin.
It's under the skin that the real changes take place, however. Big Brembo calipers clamp 345mm front brake discs, with lower, firmer suspension (working with the FlexRide adaptive handling system) and a torque-vectoring all-wheel drive setup contributing to big levels of grip.
Under the bonnet, a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine produces 260hp and 400Nm of torque, enough to propel the GSi around the Nürburgring Nordschleife in a lap time quicker than the previous-gen OPC model. The fact that the car is an impressive 160kg lighter is a real help, too. A diesel engine option will also be available.
An eight-speed automatic transmission is utilised, with paddles behind the steering wheel allowing for manual shifting. In addition to the three regular driving modes (Standard, Tour and Sport), a Competition mode can be chosen by two presses of the ESP button. This switches off the traction control and allows the car to move around more, ideal for a hot lap of a certain German racetrack...
The Insignia GSi will get its full reveal at the Frankfurt Motor Show in mid-September.