Opel: Car of choice for An Garda Síochána

Opel has supplied An Garda Síochána 20 new high performance Opel Insignia Sports Tourers that have been custom fitted with a 2.0CDTi BiTurbo diesel engine that develops an output of 195hp. This level of engine power is designed to ensure rapid engine response from low revs, making them ideal for high performance driving and policing.

The vehicles, which are wrapped in the traditional Traffic Corps livery, will be provided to Garda traffic units around the country.

The 2.0CDTi BiTurbo diesel engine is equipped with two turbos, one larger than the other. They operate separately or together as required to ensure quick engine response from low revs, developing 400Nm of torque is developed from only 1750Nm (with 350Nm from only 1500rpm).

The smaller turbo uses an efficient water-cooled intercooler to minimise turbo lag, while the larger turbo uses a larger air-cooled intercooler at higher engine speeds. Compared to single-turbo Insignia 2.0CDTi engines, the BiTurbo has higher performance pistons, cylinder head and gasket and camshafts to deal with the extra power. Despite all this performance-focussed technology, it is fuel-efficient and boasts combined CO2 emissions of only 129g/km.

Independent front and rear suspension has been fitted to these Insignia’s with lowered, uprated sports suspension along with FlexRide, Opel’s Adaptive Chassis System. FlexRide uses multiple sensors and instantly adjusts the dampers to suit the driving conditions to optimise ride and handling in all situations.

Pressing the “Sport” button stiffens the dampers, quickens the throttle response and gives more direct feeling to the steering for higher speed driving situations. FlexRide works with the ESP, ABS, electronic brake-force distribution and traction control systems to optimise driving safety.

The cars are fitted with high performance brakes. These are larger diameter front discs being ventilated and gain 4-piston brake callipers with larger pads for superior braking ability. Manual handbrakes replace the normal electric handbrakes for operational effectiveness reasons in the Garda cars. Meanwhile the 17-inch alloy wheels maximise air-flow for effective brake cooling.

Gardaí who will have responsibility of these Insignia’s will travel in Opel’s award winning Ergonomic Sports Seats. These feature electrically adjustable lumbar support and height adjustment which are perfect for spending long periods in the car while also providing support during high speed manoeuvers.

A leather sports steering wheel with integrated cruise control and speed limiter buttons and audio controls improve steering feel and performance while minimising time with hands off-wheel. A 4.2” colour dashboard displays trip computer information in a clear easy-to-see format, with the info pages also controllable via steering wheel buttons. Climate control, remote central locking with deadlocks as well as privacy glass on all rear windows are fitted for operational reasons.

These Insignia cars are fitted with front, side and curtain airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners. Active safety front head restraints ensure minimal impact to the neck in the unlikely event of an incident. LED Daytime running lights and front fog-lights have been fitted to enhance the already highly visible livery.