7th Sep 2025, 21:02
1.4T petrol is marginally better than the old 1.8 in regards performance and economy, as already mentioned. Both are cheap to insure as well. Boring engines, but cost effective if you don't do much mileage.
Also correct as has been said is avoid the diesels unless you drive 20K miles + a year. Although powerful and economical, the 2.0 CDTi has an oil seal issues at higher mileage which is expensive to rectify. And any diesel badged "ecoflex" has expensive issues with the glow plugs.
1.6 CDTi does not fare much better and has a dodgy timing chain which is expensive to change.
2.8 V6 VXR models is fast and exceptionally rare but far too expensive to run for most people.
Shame really, the Insignia is a fine car, I can comment as I have driven pretty much every version as a taxi. If you do your homework and pick the right engine and transmission for your needs, and a nice trim level, it can be a very nice reliable car if preventative maintenance is carried out.
7th Sep 2025, 18:17
Head gasket issues on the 1.8 are caused by people not keeping an eye on oil and coolant levels.
There is common areas to leak, such as the expansion tank and thermostat housing.
I do agree it is gutless and not great on fuel, but I had an Insignia 1.8 a while bzck and it was a very reliable car if cared for. I done the timing belt, every oil change and dealt with any leaks quickly, and I got 165,000 out of mine before it got scrapped (due to age and other issues not the engine).