Vauxhall Insignia hatchback (2008-2017) - Interior & comfort

The Vauxhall Insignia pays a heavy price inside for its good looks on the outside. The sloping roofline, which gives the car a coupe-like profile, means rear headroom is tight, although legroom is still pretty decent. The Vauxhall also has plenty of adjustment for the driver’s seat, so getting comfortable is easy, while the gearshift is easy to operate.

Even when compared to some of its upmarket rivals, the Vauxhall Insignia's interior is impressively well put together. While it doesn’t boast quite the exemplary fit and finish you get in an Audi A4, it’s still well built and smartly styled.

Vauxhall Insignia dashboard

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The large touchscreen (added as part of the Insignia's facelift in 2013) also helps give the interior a classy feel. With most functions being controlled using either the multimedia display or a multifunction touchpad, there are now far fewer buttons cluttering up the centre console, making it easier on the eye and less complicated to use when you’re on the move. All the digital displays are clear to read, too, however the menus aren’t as logical as those of the Skoda Superb.

Equipment

All Vauxhall Insignia interiors come with plenty of high-quality, soft-touch plastics and a leather-trimmed steering wheel, and can also be fitted with leather seat facings regardless of what trim level you choose. We’d avoid the expensive Napa leather option, though, as it doesn’t feel as soft and luxurious as Vauxhall claims.

Apple CarPlay integration is bundled with the Navi 900 IntelliLink infotainment system, which is fitted as standard to higher-spec models (although it's available as an option with the lower-spec R700 Touch system) and Vauxhall's OnStar connectivity and service assistant is available for a £79 annual fee (although the first year is free).

Options

Big Vauxhalls have always been good motorway cruisers and the Insignia lives up to this reputation – its interior remains quiet at speed. You should avoid the larger alloy wheels, however, as they send more road noise into the cabin and also give a firmer ride over potholes and speed bumps. Buyers can also choose Vauxhall’s FlexRide suspension system, which allows you to tailor the car’s set-up to your driving style. OnStar can be fitted for £395.