Opel Insignia. Euro Car Of The Year

What a close contest for the 2009 car of the year award with the winner taking the prize by just one point from Ford Fiesta. The Opel Insignia managed 20 number 1 votes from the 59 motoring journalists while the Fiesta had just 19.

Insignia will surely breathe some life into Opel’s sale and also be some consolation for Genera Motor during the present economic storm. The car demands a more respect than its predecessor , the Vectra with its elegant styling. It looks good both outside and inside.

There are a number of technical highlights that would have helped the Opel to just steal the honours. Some of these are Adaptive Forward Lighting system which is essentially super efficient lighting comprised of 9 beams that automatically adjust themselves to provide the precise lighting. Also the leds are said to be so efficient that the car emission is reduced from 6g/Km to about zero.

Then there is the Lane Departure Warning and Traffic Sign Recognition. By utilising cameras and some processors the Insignia can read oncoming Traffic signs and inform the drive to slow down for instance if over the speed limit. Lane Departure warning monitors the driver’s normal driving lane and informs alerts if there is a some veering off.

Opel also presents FlexiRide and Adaptive 4X4 which are essential sophisticated electronic driver assists. FlexiRide allows the driver various chassis settings ranging from relaxed cruising and more sporty response. Adaptive 4X4 is really traction control that aims to provide the most efficient torque to the 4 wheels.

Once it arrives in South Africa, the Insignia will definitely mix in well in the battle presently made enjoyable by Honda Accord and Mazda 6. Definitely one of the most anticipated new cars for sale for the year 2009 and more special than most Opel’s currently on the market. It might also steal some buyers forcing themselves onto “out of budget” Marques such as the BMW 3 series and Audi A4