The 2018 awards mark 30 years since Auto Express was launched in 1988. Faced with tough judging criteria and a voting panel composed of the magazine’s expert reviewers, only the very best cars make it onto the winners’ list, making this win for the Vauxhall Insignia even more impressive.
‘Space is one of the biggest priorities for a car in this class, and the Insignia Grand Sport delivers it by the shedload,’ said Steve Fowler, Editor-in-Chief at Auto Express. ‘It looks great inside and out, and is packed with tech. It’s superbly refined on the move, and there are some efficient engines. Best of all is its price tag. You can park an Insignia Grand Sport on your driveway for a little over £19,000.’
Sporting elegant lines, class-leading aerodynamics and a large coupé design inspired by the 2013 Monza Concept, the new Insignia is up to 175 kg lighter than its predecessor. The Insignia is packed with the latest technology, including Lane Keep Assist and Automatic Emergency Braking, ensuring a high level of safety. In addition, next-generation IntelliLux LED Matrix lighting is available, delivering performance without dazzling oncoming drivers.
The Insignia has been well received by customers thanks to its state-of-the-art equipment, including the IntelliLink infotainment system, which supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone connectivity. Adding to the premium feel within the cabin, the Insignia is available with a Bose sound system that delivers top-quality audio for greater listening pleasure. With engines ranging from 110PS to 210PS, the Insignia is also available with an all-new 1.5-litre turbo variant.
The Insignia has proved popular among both fleet and family buyers and is sold alongside the Insignia Country Tourer, Sports Tourer and the all-new performance-tuned GSi. In addition to this latest award, the new Insignia has been recognised at the Company Car Today CCT100 and 4×4 magazine awards.
Arriving in showrooms in September, Vauxhall’s new Corsa GSi is available to order now priced from £18,995 on-the-road.
Standard specification includes 17-inch bi-colour cut alloy wheels, GSi rear roof spoiler, sports front grille, GSi air dam/bumper and side sills. The GSi also gets dark tinted rear windows, carbon effect exterior mirrors and grille bar, and LED daytime running lights. Inside, sports-style front seats, a leather-covered flat-bottom steering wheel and R4.0 IntelliLink infotainment, offering Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, complete the package. Built on a Corsa VXR chassis, the new GSi is powered by a punchy 1.4-litre turbo engine with 150 PS and 220 Nm of torque. Acceleration from 0-62 mph takes just 8.9 seconds, with strong performance right through to its maximum speed
of 129 mph.
