Vauxhall Insignia VS rivals

A new badge, a new name and a new class leader in the large family car segment? That’s what Vauxhall is hoping for with the UK launch of its Insignia.

Hitting showrooms next month, it’s initially available in hatchback and saloon bodystyles with a choice of two diesel and three petrol engines. It banishes the Vectra name to the history books – much like its predecessor did with the Cavalier – and it’s also the first car to feature Vauxhall’s new-look Griffin badge. The reworked logo is designed to set a more exclusive tone – and with the Insignia promising to deliver new standards for comfort, premium materials and innovative technology, Vauxhall claims it’s more than just the badge that has moved upmarket.

There are five trim levels, and here we test the range-topping Elite, powered by the 158bhp version of the firm’s 2.0-litre CDTI diesel.

However, to come out on top in the family car market, there is a queue of capable rivals the Vauxhall needs to overtake. We have lined up two of the best in the shape of Honda’s latest and greatest Accord, and our current class favourite, the Ford Mondeo.

The coupé-inspired styling of the new Insignia means that there’s no mistaking it for a Vectra, but is Vauxhall’s family car good enough to beat its rivals? Read on as we deliver our definitive verdict.