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(Mon 20 Apr 09) The low-CO2 ecoFLEX version of the Vauxhall Insignia, show in prototype form at last October's Paris Show (see separate story), is on sale now at prices starting from £19,600.
The ecoFLEX uses the same 158bhp two-litre turbo diesel engine already found elsewhere in the Insignia range, so performance is unchanged at 135mph flat-out and 0-60mph in 8.9 seconds. However, thanks to extra streamlining, higher gearing, a 10mm lower ride height and low rolling resistance tyres, the ecoFLEX is much more economical than the standard 2.0 CDTi models, with a combined figure of 54.7mpg rather than 48.7mpg, and CO2 emissions drop from 154g/km to 136g/km. The CO2 figure means that the ecoFLEX is one VED band lower than the CDTi, saving owners £25 per year (not particularly significant when you consider that the ecoFLEX costs £475 more - the improved fuel consumption should make a much bigger difference). For business customers, the ecoFLEX is also in the 18% BIK tax bracket, rather than 21% for the standard car. The ecoFLEX is available in all trim levels other than SRi, and with both saloon and hatchback body styles. The most expensive model is the Elite, which costs £24,950, or £25,745 if fitted with satellite navigation. |
