The Opel Insignia has been crowned Car of the Year 2009 in recognition of the Insignia’s style and host of technical innovations.

 

The jury comprised of a panel of car journalists 59 senior motoring correspondents from 23 countries that fell for the looks and visual quality of the Insignia, but recognized that it offered substance as well as style. 

 

"Artistry with German precision" was how the judges described the Opel Insignia, stating they were also impressed by the active and passive safety, comfort and a wide array of efficient engines that the Insignia offers. According to the judges; “the richness of equipment can be increased with sophisticated options such as the ‘Opel Eye’, that reads road signals, FlexRide suspension and nine-mode Adaptive Forward Lighting.”

 

“We are extremely proud the Insignia has been named Car of the Year”, said Hans Demant, Managing Director of Opel and Vice President of Engineering for General Motors Europe. “This is confirmation of the hard work of our designers, engineers and workers; and their commitment to quality that makes the Insignia a true flagship for our brand.”

 

The Insignia won out from a tough field of 37 contenders in this year’s competition. In casting their vote, the judges considered criteria such as design, safety, handling and performance. There is also a weighty emphasis on technical innovation and value-for-money; both, clearly areas in which the Insignia excels. 

 

The Insignia is the third Opel to win this prestigious award, but the first in 22 years. The Opel Kadett won the top spot in 1985 with the Omega winning two later. The Insignia is also the first mid-sized sedan to win the award since 1998.