Hot on the heels of the new-for-2009 Opel Insignia, engineers are busy prepping an Insignia OPC version that promises to be hot on the street.
Like other Opel vehicles wearing the OPC label (which stands for Opel Performance Center) this Insignia displays some noticeable differences from the standard model. Although they're carefully taped over, we can see some aggressive scoops on the front fascia, while dual exhausts pop out of the rear diffuser. The big multi-spoke wheels aren't likely to carry into production as-is, but the large-diameter disc brakes, sourced from Brembo, likely will.
Hidden from view, however, is a tweaked engine. Rumors say the Insignia will still use the turbocharged 2.8-liter V-6 found in the base car, but in this application it will be boosted to at least 300 hp. We also hear there's a possibility that the XWD system, an all-wheel-drive setup developed for the Saab 9-3, will appear on the car.
We expect the Insignia OPC, along with its Vauxhall sibling, the Insignia VXR, to make its official debut sometime next year. GM is looking at making the Insignia the next Saturn Aura, and we'd welcome a Red Line model based on the Insignia OPC.