A turbo 2.0-liter engine producing 260 horsepower, but no V6 for Europe.
That was quick. Mark Adams, Opel’s Vice President for Design, has confirmed that the GSi badge would be returning to a German-made model. He also released a teaser photo with a red car. Although we initially thought it was an Astra GSi model, the brand revealed a more surprising surprise – a sporty Insignia GSi that is “sharper and more precise than the standard model”
It is not a high-performance, full-blown variant. Instead, think of it as a “warm” derivative that includes design, suspension, brakes and interior upgrades. It will be distinguished from the five-door Insignia Grand Sport by its more aggressive bumpers and 20-inch wheels.
Opel compares Opel’s new Insignia GSi to the OPC before it, stating that the new car is faster around the Nurburgring. However, Opel did not specify the lap times. This is possible despite having a lower-powered Insignia OPC and a smaller turbo four-cylinder engine of 260 horsepower (194-watt) than the V6.
According to the manufacturer, the GSi weighs in at 353 pounds (160 kg) less than the OPC. It sits lower to ground, has a lower center-of gravity, and has more grip due to an all-wheel drive system that uses torque vectoring.
“The new Insignia GSi is clearly quicker over one lap of the Nurburgring-Nordschleife than the more powerful Insignia OPC of the previous generation” Director Performance Cars amd Motorsport, Volker Strycek, confirmed. The GSi is so fast because of its combination of low weight, especially on the front axle, low center of gravity and easy handling. It also has high power over a broad rpm-band, best traction, and low center of gravity.
The new Insignia GSi cabin features state-of the-art sports seats that offer improved lateral support and long-distance comfort. Opel promises. The front seats, just like the higher trim levels of the Insignia standard, offer ventilation, heating and massage as well as adjustable side bolsters. Customers can choose between two leather upholstery, each with a GSi emblem, and made specifically for this car.
The Frankfurt Motor Show will host the first public appearance of the car in September. A market launch is planned for October. The car will feature a powerful diesel engine.