Holden Insignia VXR AWD

Yes folks this is the car most likely to replace the current Holden Commodore, unless GM comes up with a larger version after 2017. 
It's the European built Opel Insignia. Slightly narrower than the current Commodore, but about the same length. The boot is enormous and the interior has room to spare for a family of five.This is the top of the range Insignia VXR.. Powered by a feisty 2.8 litre turbo V6.. with 240 kw and over 435 nm of torque plus AWD is a great package. 

Smooth at idle and right up to the highest in the rev range, the Insignia is equally silent on the highway, except for some whine from the Pirelli tyres on some surfaces.
Acceleration is brisk but not outstanding..zero to 100 kmh in six seconds.. it's a tad lethargic getting there because of its bulk of almost two tonnes...accompanied by a smooth sophisticated burble from the twin exhaust pipes. However it's quite thirsty, averaging over 11 litres per 100 kilometres.
The VXR has plenty of grip in corners but it's not in the same league as others from for example BMW and Jaguar.

Seat comfort is good, and while the sporty front seats snatch some width from the interior they are excellent in holding the passengers in place. The sound system is very very good... and there's a large easy to use central info /entertainment screen.Other goodies include, active cruise control, lane departure warning, satellite navigation,brilliant bi xenon headlights with corner turn in feature, heated front seats and rear view camera.

The suspension is adjustable from comfort to sport, and surprisingly in the standard setting the Insignia's 20 inch wheels and 35 series Pirellis make the ride quite comfortable even over suburban ruts and potholes.Gigantic drilled Brembo brakes help haul the car down from speed.There's no spare wheel however.. all you get is a pump and seal kit.

Rear seat legroom is squeezy if front seat occupants are tall but the seats are comfy enough and there's reasonable head room.
At just over 51K the Insignia is well worth a look if you're after a classy, midsized cruiser with all the fruit, it could be for you.
Peter Sellen