What's all this about?

The Vauxhall Insignia is changing and so too is its name: say hello to the 2017 Insignia Grand Sport. Built on an all-new architecture, this car is lower, wider and looks a lot sleeker than its predecessor. Vauxhall even claims it will have class-leading aerodynamics and, being 175kg lighter than before, it should be good when it comes to fuel economy, too.

It certainly looks the part.

Much of that is due to the roofline coming down by 29mm. It's more sloped too, giving the Insignia a sleeker side profile, or, as Vauxhall prefers to say, a coupé-like roofline. This is made possible by stretching the wheelbase out by 92mm, which frees up cabin space inside and reduces the front and rear overhangs. Track has increased by 11mm, but the overall length is almost the same as the outgoing Insignia's.

What about inside?

It's the familiar Vauxhall fare inside, much of which has already been seen in the recently launched Mokka X. The layout is less cluttered, and higher-spec models will benefit from an eight-inch IntelliLink infotainment system. Adding to the cosseting feel is a driver's seat that is now 3cm lower, which should make it feel a bit sportier.

Other technology like Head-Up Display, electrically adjustable AGR-approved ergonomic front seats, Land Keep Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control will all be offered, as well as heated and ventilated front seats, heated rear seats and a heated windscreen for frosty mornings.

Vauxhall has improved its IntelliLux LED matrix headlights too. These slimmer units feature 32 LED segments - twice as many as in the Astra - and can illuminate up to 400 metres ahead. In addition to this, they include the new 'double wing' LED daytime running light signature design. The increased number of LED segments means that the headlights can give a greater variety of light patterns in traffic to provide the driver with the best possible visibility. And a link to the steering angles allows for improved lighting through bends.

So what about the engine line-up?

The exact details of the engines for the Insignia Grand Sport have yet to be confirmed, but we would predict that they will include both 1.6- and 2.0-litre diesel units with various power outputs. Naturally, both automatic and manual transmissions will be available, including a new eight-speed auto. There will also be the choice of a new Intelligent All-wheel Drive system that utilises torque vectoring technology to ensure optimum levels of traction when cornering.

So when does it arrive?

The car will make its official public debut at the Geneva Motor Show in March and should be arriving in showrooms later on next summer. Exact pricing and specification details won't be revealed until closer to that time.

Dave Humphreys - 7 Dec 2016