Sharper, more precise, even more efficient – the new Opel Insignia GSi is a sports saloon for those who like something special; a driver’s car for maximum fun on all kinds of roads.
Shorter springs lower the GSi by 10 millimetres and special sports shock absorbers reduce body movements to a minimum. The powerful Brembo four-cylinder 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 transmission. The driver can choose between Standard, Tour and Sport modes. Subject to the chosen mode, steering and throttle-response are then even more direct.
Exclusive to the Insignia GSi is the Competition mode, which is activated via the ESP button. A double-press allows skillful 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 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. Annoying understeer, where the front wheels push towards the outside of the corner, is therefore almost banished from the Insignia GSi. In other words, the Opel takes a neat line through a series of turns.
The sports saloon is powered by an impressive gasoline turbo engine that combines fuel efficiency with performance. The powerful 2-litre turbo 4-cylinder produces 260bhp and generous torque of 400Nm. The motor is mated to an all-new 8-speed automatic transmission. The driver has the option of shifting gears via paddles at the steering wheel. With the transmission shifting automatically, the driver can even pre-select the shift points in Standard and Sport modes.
The sporty capabilities of the Insignia GSi are matched by design cues, technology highlights and accessories. At the top of the list is the new sports seat developed by Opel, which provides increased lateral support as well as long-distance comfort. The premium sports seat is AGR-certified and therefore ergonomically ideal. Just like in the Insignia Grand Sport, the seat offers ventilation, heating, massage and adjustable side bolsters. In the GSi variant, the tall seatback also features an integrated head restraint. The routing of the seatbelt at shoulder level is ideal, which is not a given for integral seats.
The customer can choose from two leather combinations, each decorated with a GSi emblem. The logo also proudly adorns the rear of the car, which carries an efficient spoiler for the required downforce on the rear axle. The rear apron looks similar to a diffusor and features two chrome-edged exhaust pipes. Similarly chrome-edged air-intakes are located ahead of the front wheels.
Folks will also appreciate the appropriate ambience in the interior, such as in the flattened lower area of the leather-wrapped steering wheel, the aluminium pedals and the black ceiling – in the best style of a special German sports saloon. 
Read about the 80-year history of Opel flagships, from the 1937 Admiral to the 2017 Insignia.
