The new Opel Insignia might look like the 2011 model, but it’s been given a thorough update for more refinement and efficiency.

The most significant change is the addition of a new 1.4 turbo ecoFLEX gasoline engine to the range. It is a very small engine, but it makes 103 kW/140 hp and 200 Nm which is fairly enough for a mid-size family sedan. That said, there’s no getting away from the fact that it does zero to 100 km/h in 10.9 seconds and that’s pretty slow. On the upside it averages 5.7 liters per 100 kilometers and emits 134 grams per kilometer.

In other upgrades, the electric power steering REPS (Rack Assist Electric Power Steering) featured for the first time in the Insignia. And you can have the 2.0 turbo 4×4 with more power and torque with reduced consumption.

The engine delivers 185 kW/250 hp and maximum torque of 400 Nm (previously 350 Nm). This powerful drivetrain with manual transmission can sprint from zero to 100 km/h in just 7.5 seconds. The top speed is electronically limited to 250 km/h. Opel managed to make this engine as efficient as possible using fuel saving features like Start/Stop system and low-rolling-resistance tires.

Other items that make it worth waiting for the 2012 model include new infotainment systems Navi 600 and Navi 900 Europa, Opel front camera, used for traffic sign recognition and lane departure warning to date, premium Nappa leather finish “Indian Night”, new dark metallic lacquer “Luxor”, which, depending on the light, has blue-violet color reflections.

Prices for the 2012 Opel Insignia start at 23,330 euro.