Opel is set to complete the Insignia range by launching a rugged-looking Country Tourer version at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. The Insignia Country Tourer comes with bespoke exterior styling and is equipped with two of the Insignia's most powerful engines, along with an advanced four-wheel drive system.
Exterior
Based on the existing Sports Tourer model, the rough-and-ready Country Tourer adds front and rear under body protection, cladding for the sills and wheelarches and a raised ride height. These additions are complemented by twin chrome exhaust outlets, bespoke alloy wheels with large tyres, and LED lighting front and rear.
Interior
Whilst Opel has released nothing official regarding interior specification, we are led to believe that the Insignia Country Tourer is based on top-of-the-range versions of the standard Insignia estate. If this is the case, expect to find full-leather upholstery, cruise control, satellite navigation and a host of connectivity options inside. The Country Tourer also has the same 1,510-litre boot space as the Sports Tourer model.
Mechanicals
Opel is offering a choice of two top-spec engines for the Country Tourer. The headliner is a powerful 250hp, 2.0-litre turbocharged SIDI petrol engine that generates 400Nm of torque. For those who are slightly more bank-balance-conscious, the Country Tourer can also be had with the 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engine, developing 163hp and 350Nm of torque. Both engines can be linked to either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic gearbox, with power fed to all four wheels.
The Haldex four-wheel drive system used in the Insignia Country Tourer is claimed to be one of the best systems available in the mid-size segment; offering the ability to shift from zero to 100 per cent torque to the front or rear axle on demand. Using various sensors around the car as well as an electronically-controlled rear limited-slip differential (eLSD), Opel claims that the latest Insignia can keep moving even if only one rear wheel has traction.
Anything else?
More details regarding prices and launch dates are expected to take place at the Insignia Country Tourer's world debut in September.