Opel's new family car, the Insignia, which was voted 2009 European Car of the Year, is now on sale.
The estate version of the Insignia will go on sale in the spring, badged the Tourer. The rear luggage area is 540 litres, but when the rear seats are folded flat that increases to 1,510. It can take loads of up to 1.91 metres.
Interestingly, because the rear lights are mounted on the tailgate, two internal lights have been added within the boot space as it is necessary to meet road side safety legislation with the hatch open.
The Insignia was launched to the public at the London Motor Show in July and has received lavish praise for its sporty silhouette, class-leading aerodynamics, and innovative technology.
Opel sees the styling of its new 4.83 metre five-seater clearly expressing its strategy to make advanced technology and attractive design affordable.
The Insignia’s triumph in the European Car of the Year marks the third win for Opel. In 1985 the Astra won the title, followed two years later when the Omega was successful. The Insignia succeeds the 2008 winner - the Fiat 500, which brought the total European Car of the Year titles won by Fiat Group Automobiles to 12.
A spokesman for Opel was encouraged by the win: "This is great news for GM/Opel and its employees, suppliers, and retailers. Opel has made great strides in recent years, particularly in design and dynamics, and the Insignia illustrates what we’re capable of achieving. It offers great quality and value in a prestige package that will provide an exceptional ownership experience to our customers."
