2009 VAUXHALL INSIGNIA 1.8 16v Exclusiv Nav Hatchback 5dr Petrol Manual Euro 5 (140 Ps)

The Vauxhall Insignia has long been a popular choice for UK drivers seeking a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped large family car. Offering a compelling blend of style, practicality, and value, it's a model that deserves serious consideration on the used market. This guide will help you navigate the Insignia landscape and make an informed purchase.

Why Buy a Vauxhall Insignia?

• Spacious Interior: The Insignia excels in passenger and boot space, making it ideal for families, commuters, or those who regularly carry luggage.
• Comfortable Ride: It's designed for long-distance cruising, with a compliant suspension that smooths out imperfections in the road.
• Generous Equipment: Even entry-level models typically come with a good array of features, while higher trims offer premium touches like leather upholstery, advanced infotainment, and driver assistance systems.
• Attractive Styling: Particularly in its later generations, the Insignia boasts sharp, modern styling that looks more expensive than it is.
• Value for Money: As a used car, the Insignia offers significant bang for your buck, providing a large car experience at a fraction of the price of a new equivalent.

UK Price Guide (GBP)

Prices vary significantly depending on the age, condition, mileage, engine, and trim level. Here's a general guide for used models:

Model Year	Typical Price Range (GBP)
2008-2013 (First Generation)	£2,500 - £7,000
2013-2017 (Facelifted First Generation)	£5,000 - £10,000
2017 onwards (Second Generation)	£8,000 - £20,000+

Note: These are indicative prices and can fluctuate. Always check current listings for accurate pricing.

Specifications

The Insignia has been offered with a wide range of engine and transmission options throughout its life, catering to various needs:

• Engines: Primarily petrol (1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 2.0 Turbo) and diesel (1.6, 2.0 CDTi). Performance and economy vary greatly between these.
• Transmissions: Manual and automatic gearboxes are available.
• Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available on some higher-performance or more rugged variants.
• Body Styles: Hatchback (often referred to as a GSi or VXR), Saloon, and Sports Tourer (estate).

Common Issues

While generally reliable, some common areas to check on a used Insignia include:

• Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF): Particularly on older diesel models, DPF issues can arise if the car is predominantly used for short journeys.
• Turbocharger: Listen for any whistling noises or loss of power, indicating potential turbo problems.
• Electrical Gremlins: Check all lights, windows, and the infotainment system for any intermittent faults.
• Suspension/Steering: Listen for knocks or rattles from the suspension over bumps, and check for uneven tyre wear which could indicate steering alignment issues.
• Timing Belt: Ensure the timing belt has been replaced according to the manufacturer's schedule, especially on petrol engines.

Running Costs

Running costs are generally competitive for its class:

• Fuel Economy: Modern diesel engines offer excellent mpg for long journeys, while petrol engines are best suited for lower mileage users.
• Road Tax: Varies based on CO2 emissions, with older models often costing more.
• Insurance: Group ratings depend on the specific model and engine, but are generally reasonable for the size of the car.
• Servicing: Routine maintenance is typically affordable, with many independent garages capable of servicing an Insignia.

Variants

The Insignia has been offered in numerous trim levels and special editions:

• S, SE, SRi, Elite: Common trim levels offering increasing levels of specification and luxury.
• Design, Tech Line, Energy: Often fleet-focused trims with a focus on equipment.
• GSi/VXR: Performance-oriented models with sportier styling and more powerful engines.
• Country Tourer: A more rugged, all-wheel-drive estate version for light off-roading.

When buying, consider your priorities: if comfort and space are key, an SE or Elite model will suffice. If you desire a sportier feel, look for an SRi or a GSi/VXR. Whatever you choose, the Vauxhall Insignia remains a strong contender in the used large car market.