Holden Insignia VXR she says, he says review

We get a glimpse of the future of the Holden Commodore.

August 4 2016

Jessica Miles and Stephen Ottley

He: Driving the Insignia is like simultaneously experiencing Holden's past and its future. This current Insignia is the same car that originally came here wearing an Opel badge back in 2013. That's important because the next car to carry the 'Commodore' badge will more than likely be a version of the next-generation Opel Insignia. So there are probably some clues about what to expect from the future of Holden sports sedans driving this. What do you make of the Insignia VXR, Jess? Does it still feel fresh to you?

She: Felt very fresh, especially for the brand. I was expecting an experience akin to that of a grunty V8 but the turbo V6 was a good performer and I had a great time behind the wheel. The stand out for me was the Insignia's design and styling - sophisticated but very sporty.

He: I agree the exterior has aged well and the 20-inch alloy wheels give it a purposeful stance. But I can't say I'm a fan of the interior. It looks far too busy with way too many buttons and some old fashion low-res graphic displays. Although, having said that, I must admit the Recaro sports seats were pretty nice. But enough about looks, what about how it went?

Holden Insignia VXR interior. Photo: Supplied

She: The drive was fun, especially once you got the car going. However, I'm unsure if traditional Commodore drivers would appreciate it. The engine sound is distinctively turbo and the drive does suffer from a slight turbo lag - definitely a different feel to a naturally aspirated V8. Did you enjoy the drive?

He: I agree that I find it hard to imagine traditional V8 Commodore buyers flocking to this sort of car in great numbers. It has decent punch when the turbo is on boost but it lacks the kick you get from the Commodore SS and its big bent eight. And despite its European heritage I think it really lacks the same dynamic poise as the home-grown sports sedans. I think the Commodore SS-V is a more enjoyable car to drive that the Insignia VXR. Do you agree? Or am I just being a romantic for the local V8?

She: I think you are being a little romantic for the V8 - If this car was valued on it's own merit rather than being compared with the Commodore it is still a great package. Yes, it has a different character to the 'big bent eight' but it is a great drive nonetheless with enough grunt, good handling and balanced cornering from its adaptive all wheel drive. It's also packed with safety features such as automatic emergency braking and adaptive forward lighting. You must admit it's got some great gear packed into it?

He: You're right, it is well stocked. Other standard gear includes adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitoring, rear cross traffic alert, sat nav, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera and Holden's MyLink infotainment system. If you looks at it in isolation from the Commodore it makes a compelling case for those who want something sporty, practical and a bit stylish. So, does it win you over?

She: Sure does. Overall, it's a good sized car with decent boot space. It has sporty looks, is packed with a raft of safety features, and an engine that has enough get up and go to ensure a fun drive. The Insignia VXR ticks a lot of boxes and is an all round good package at a competitive price point.

He: Personally, I'd pick a Commodore SS-V and enjoy the home-grown V8 while I can. But if the next Insignia follows a similar theme to this VXR then it bodes well for the future.