The new Insignia GSi is the fastest Vauxhall around the Nurburgring

Vauxhall's new Insignia GSi delivers high levels of performance through all-wheel drive, a new chassis and Brembo brakes, and is powered by either a new 2.0-litre bi-turbo diesel, or a refined 2.0-litre turbo petrol unit. The GSi has a responsive new eight-speed automatic gearbox, operated via a paddle-shift on the steering wheel.

A state-of-the-art all-wheel-drive system, incorporating a sophisticated twin-clutch differential, which provides torque vectoring in the most demanding conditions, turns the GSi into a first-class driver's car.

Like other models in the Insignia's range, the GSi has shed weight - in this case, 160kg less than the first generation VXR, which preceded it.

Combined with a 10mm lower ride height, the difference in the Insignia GSi's steering, body control and overall agility can be felt immediately.

Significantly, the GSi is the fastest Vauxhall yet around the Nurburgring - where much of its chassis development was carried out - and is a full 12 seconds quicker than the outgoing, and more powerful, Insignia VXR.

Exterior design updates include chrome air intakes at the front and a rear spoiler for improved levels of downforce, while on the inside full-leather sports seats, a leather sports steering wheel and aluminium pedals complete the package.

The launch of the 2018 Insignia GSi also marks 25 years since the first GSi badge was seen on a Vauxhall (in 1993 on the then new Corsa).