2023 Author: Eric Donovan | [email protected]. Last modified: 2023-05-21 15:44
Opel has once again significantly upgraded the Signum in terms of equipment. The six-speed automatic is ideal for the rather calm character of the most important version with the 1.9-liter diesel engine.
By Michael Langenwalter
Somehow the Signum has always been lost at Opel. For the new model year, the Rüsselsheim-based company has therefore given the long version of the Vectra a substantial premium in terms of equipment. In the top version Signum Cosmo Plus there is now a tire pressure control system, a parking pilot, bi-xenon cornering light and a tire pressure control system for an entry price from 36,450 euros for the automatic version (with manual gearbox 2000 euros cheaper) in addition to 17-inch alloy wheels and an on-board computer Seat heating ex works. The comfortable, electrically adjustable MultiContour seats (1,600 euros) built into the test car still cost extra.
Gentle gliding
You can make yourself really comfortable in the Signum. Because the 4.65 meter long top model from Opel is not designed for driving dynamics. The wheelbase, which is 13 centimeters longer than that of the Vectra, speaks against all too sporting ambitions. The front-wheel drive is more intended for leisurely gliding, which can be made particularly pleasant with the gently shifting automatic version. Smooth steering and the balanced chassis contribute to this.
Necessary punch is missing
The 1.9 liter four-cylinder diesel engine fits this rather calm character. Particle filters and the Euro4 standard are a matter of course here. The Commenrail diesel engine runs smoothly and does its job without any major background noise. From below, however, there is a lack of punch; the turbo only takes effect from 1500 revolutions.
Long translated
The unit with an output of 110 kW / 150 PS and a maximum torque of 320 Nm, which is applied at 2000 to 2750 revs, but ensures a befitting performance. 10.6 seconds for the sprint to 100 km / h, 205 km / h top. However, the two highest speed levels are set to be extremely long, which is noticeable at speeds beyond the 3000 mark. When it comes to consumption, you can easily get there with the seven before the decimal point; the official factory specification is 7.1 liters per 100 kilometers. That is a good liter more than the version with manual transmission.
Lots of space
As a rule, however, the fuel flow will be a bit higher, because the space miracle should rarely be driven around empty. There is ample space not only for the driver and front passenger, but also for two passengers in the rear. The outer seats can be adjusted lengthways by up to 13 centimeters, depending on use. As a load master, the Signum then comes out on top. With the backrest folded down, storage space of up to 1410 liters can be gained - that is impressive. Usually it is 360 to 550 liters. Loading even heavy items is made noticeably easier by the deep edge.
And it is precisely this variability that defines the Signum, which weighs 1.5 tons. As a mid-range model, it offers the space of a luxury sedan and the utility of a station wagon.
