What is better - Opel Insignia, Volkswagen Passat, Volkswagen Passat CC, Volvo S60 or Infiniti G25? Opel Insignia, VW Passat: Wind, Wind, are you mighty? Suspension Passat B7 or Opel Insignation Restyling.

We did not give a new generation of Volkswagen Passat - we immediately sent him to a duel with Opel Insignia. Can affect the rating of VW that with less powerful - 160 liters. from. Does it cost a 220-strong rival?

Criticism in the address of the Volkswagen Passat of the new generation was distributed since the first foreign tests of the model. God forbid, he did not worse. But the trouble, for the better, he also did not move much - remained himself. To arrange him a real exam, we brought Passat with a compatriot model, which became one of the brightest prime minister of the German auto industry - Opel Insignia. In a cloudy and slushful day, these two German sedans in a strict coloring are set up on serious way.

Nor say, and Opel with his nontrivial design, presented for almost three years ago, still looks brightly and is not inferior to the opponent, who has a new one, with a needle.

Volkswagen Passat in front and the feed looks much more good than before. Strict headlights, LED lights make it a very business car. But in the profile, so immediately and you won't guess, before you a new generation of Passat or the previous one. The characteristic Passatovskaya arc of the roof line and the form of the rear side of the body remains without noticeable changes. But this kind of change in appearance is quite enough so that the owners of whole jambs of Passat of different generations folded their neck, looking at the passing B7 passing by B7.

Hospitality

Salon Opel is familiar to us on repeated meetings on single and comparative tests. The driver landing is very reminded by sports. The door card arc flows into the torpedo, and then to the center console, the driver is moving, forming a cockpit. At the same time, the seats are devoid of sports obsessions of developed lateral support or excessive stiffness. Find a comfortable driving position easily. But to navigate on a close parking without help parking sensors is not so easy. Fortunately, it is even in basic Insignia. Having a trunk line, strongly inclined rear racks and a small rear window create problems with visibility. Yes, and the mirrors of the rear view, the upper part of which are bevelled in favor of aerodynamics and design, are not so great as we would like.

In the Passat salon, everything ... as in the Passat salon, only with a clock in the center of Torpedo. The same laconic central console, torpedo with a step, simple lines. There are no such accents in it, like an opponent, but at the same time it is still comfortable. The driver's seat cushion is only a bit (by 1.5 cm) in short than Opel. But the traditional stiffness of the chair allows for a long time to go without fatigue. As for the space on the front armchairs, here Insignia and Passat parity. And in terms of the Passat visibility, the opponent is better thanks to the large sizes of the rear window and mirrors.

The roof line of both cars for the sake of silhouette's rapidness made arcooked. This explains not a very large space above the head of the rear passengers. In long trips to take three passengers to the rear row of both cars are not worth it. After all, the transmission tunnel strongly performs in the salon, having a feet of the third saddle.
In terms of the capacity of trunk, the unambiguous leader is Volkswagen. In addition to the fact that the volume of the luggage compartment Volkswagen is 65 l more, so here is still wider than the loading opening and 6 cm less loading height.

	In the overclocking dynamics of Insignia is noticeably better. Its locomotive traction in 350 nm beyond competition.

Opel Insignia looks fresh even three years after the debut. Volkswagen Passat is new, but, in fact, there is little different from its predecessor.

Why are different?

In this test, we covered the cars, the same at the price. For a landmark accepted Passat in a popular version with a 1.8 TSI engine and a 7-speed robotic DSG gearbox. Such a modification in Ukraine is proposed, starting with the middle configuration of the Comfortline, and will cost at least $ 36173. This is $ 4302 more expensive than with a manual gear from the Trendline version. At the cost of Passat with the "automatic" we picked up and rival. Opel sells Insignia with a 2.0-liter turbocharged motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission for $ 36340. And this is despite the fact that under the hood Opel motor, which is more powerful than the opponent, by 60 (!) L. p., and its torque is higher for the whole 100 nm! Let's see how Passat will resist such a pressure.

Faster, more higher

The management is expected to be more interesting to Opel. It offers a tangible best acceleration dynamics. At acceleration, there is always a huge reserve of thrust under the right foot. It would still, because the motor gives a colossal 350 nm for 2000- rpm. You feel particularly brightly, the code is translated into the Sport mode. The suspension becomes tougher, the gas pedal is responsive, the steering is clamped and resist the rotation of the ram. The car seems to be in a lump, mobilizing all his strength. But the driver also needs to be gathering. After all, such power and thrust concentrated on one, and also managed axis, cannot but affect the transparency of the steering. In the inclination Insignia is not so accurate, as its power requires. Perfect ride on such a car - on the highway with smooth devices. Here insignia with a low-profile bus and a powerful motor without problems will be rated even at speeds close to its maximum 240 km / h. Yes, and for lightning overtaking, the endless margin of torque - just right. In the city, such potential remains almost unclaimed. But you do not forget about it: an excess reminder serves as an arrow of the fuel level and a pointer to its consumption, which stubbornly crawls to 14 l / 100km. And if you abuse the sports mode and active ride, it is not a problem to drive the flow pointer and higher.

	In the dynamics of the Passat advantage at the speed of the 7-speed robotic box.
Electric drives not all adjustments of seats, but only an inclination of the back and lumbar backpage.

But eats little

VOLKSWAGEN Motor 1.8 TSI is familiar to us on other models of the concern, including Skoda Octavia, which has been driving on editorial ages for almost a year. But on the background of Opel, Volkswagen's power plant looks much more modest. To perform in full force against such a powerful Insignia, I would need Passat 2.0 TSI, but he is very expensive - $ 40608, and with DSG for almost $ 3,000 more expensive. And this is the cost, comparable to the price of the most "charged" version of Opel Insignia OPC (about 407500 UAH.) With a 2.8-liter motor that gives 325 liters. from.

In acceleration, checking elasticity and other dynamic exercises, Passat does not catch up with an opponent, although its dynamics are very decent. But there are several items for which Passat won. So, his robotic gearbox is flawlessly fast and better responds to work a gas pedal. Although in urban pulls, it is impossible to such a smooth start as a car with a classic "automatic" equipped with a torque converter. With a primary closure of clutch discs, the "robot" is felt a slightly tighter moment of start of the movement, although there is no discomfort. But the most significant advantage is still "appetite" cars. Compared with the opponent, Passat spends 4.7 l / 100 km less. And this is very substantial.

Acceleration dynamics, speed, motor elasticity, controllability - Opel. The volume of the trunk, fuel consumption and after-sales price - Volkswagen.

Comfort where?

In terms of smoothness, both cars are not particularly indispensable for passengers. Setting the chassis has a quick ride in a straight line. Both machines are not prone to star or lying on the highway. However, as for the fight against irregularities, everyone here has its own recipe.

Opel can request the Flexride system. It helps to adapt the behavior of the car by offering three modes: standard, sports Sport and high comfort Tour. So make the running Opel is softer by simply pressing one button on the center console. And yet, big irregularities carefully pass precisely behind the wheel of Opel. After all, the test machine is in the top-optation Sport, which is equipped with 19-inch discs and "low" tires 255/40. Such on our pits to damage easier. However, the standard for Insignia 2.0 Turbo 18-inch tires are more resistant to our roads. Passat wheels do not look so effectively with 17-inch discs, but where tolerant to random hit in the pit.

The Volkswagen suspension has usual and does not offer any versions. Although she became a little softer than the predecessor, but still you won't call it very comfortable. The irregularities of Passat runs down and without unnecessary sounds. But on a broken path of passengers still shakes.

Quiet sap

Tests are already behind, and, sitting on the table of results, I can not not be amazed, with what constant practicality in the confrontation of Opel Insignia and Volkswagen Passat takes the top.
As part of the volume and convenience of the salon, both cars were equal. But Passat breaks forward due to a larger trunk.

Check out the road changed accents. Moreover, before the measurements of dynamic qualities began. Opel offers a Flexride system that allows you to choose the smoothness options. And as soon as the opportunity it became possible to pass in full force, many more advantages of Opel turned out. Maximum speed, overclocking, elasticity, handling and stability - in all this Insignia exceeds Passat. But there is a slab and Opel - its fuel consumption. On each hundred kilometers running around the city the difference of costs compared to VW - almost fifty hryvnia! So because of its "appetite" Insignia loses six valuable points at once, which in such difficulty earned for dynamic data. And although Volkswagen is already ahead, he still ran several insidious solutions. Maybe the cakes will be the stakes that this model is gaining in their reputation? After all, it precisely precisely the same generation model of a positive halo created around for an already one generation with a secondary sale machine loses the price slowly, and the demand for Passat is stable. Insignia has no such well-established reputation. However, the minimum VOLKSWAGEN coil can be perceived as the success of Opel. After all, it is not necessary to take Insignia with such a powerful engine. It has the choice of power units. And the gamma of gasoline engines is even wider than the opponent.

We consider in a new way

Due to the increase in fuel prices, it was necessary to rewrite a part of our system of assessments of comparative tests. Not only since the beginning of the year, the transport fee has disappeared, so gasoline prices have already soared that we could not leave the weight gain of the estimate at the same level. Now instead of the previous 25 gains increased the weight gain of economy to 50 points, making it the second most important after the price of the car.

Summary Opel

Body and Comfort
The appearance and design of the cabin look brighter and more expressive than Volkswagen. Planting driver more sports.	The light decoration of the cabin (in this version) is impractical.
Power unit and dynamics
High power motor 220 liters. p., especially in sports mode, provides the necessary acceleration even at high speed. In traffic jams, the 6-speed ACP with a torque converter starts soft and comfortable. The presence of the Flex Ride system allows you to change both the character of the suspension and the sensitivity of the controls.	Fuel consumption is very high. Large wheels and low tire profile make the wheels very vulnerable on our roads.
Finance and Equipment
The current price of the model is quite attractive. A wide range of motors is offered.	Less than the opponent, after-sales cost.

Summary VW.

Body and Comfort
After updating the appearance of Passat, it looks solid, strongly eroded with the flagship Phaeton.	There is no special reason to change the former Passat to the new one. The size of the salon has not changed, as, in fact, the interior design also remained almost the same.
Power unit and dynamics
Motor and robotic KP work simply and very quickly respond to teams. In this case, fuel consumption is pleasantly surprising.	Overclocking dynamics more modestly more than a competitor.
Finance and Equipment
Folk favorite slowly loses in price and enjoys a good reputation in the secondary market.	The cost of the machine is not small, even considering that under the hood is not a topical engine 2.0 TSI, but only a 160-strong 1.8 TSI. Changed mainly design and list of optional Passat equipment. In the technical sense of change, compared with the previous generation, minimum.

common data
Body type
Doors / seats
Dimensions, d / sh / in, mm
Pitch the front / rear., Mm
Clearance, mm.
Mass Curb / Full, kg
The volume of the trunk, l
Volume of tank, l
Engine
	benz. with unseport. PRP., turbo	benz. with unseport. PRP., turbo
Rasp. and to-in Cyl. / CL. on cil
Volume, see cube.
Power, kW (l. P.) / Rpm		118 (160)/5000-6200
Max. kr. MOM., Nm / rpm
Transmission
type of drive	front	front
		7-st. robot. DSG.
Chassis
Front brakes / rear	disk. VENT / DISC.	disk. VENT / DISC.
Front / rear suspension	unqualified / independent.	unqualified / independent.
Amplifier
Performance indicators
Maximum speed, km / h
Acceleration 0-100 km / h, with
Races. Route-city, l / 100 km
Warranty, years / km	2 / without OGR. samples.	2 / without OGR. samples.
Periodicity, km
Cost, UAH.
Min. Cost., UAH **.
Stand. test. Auto, UAH.
* At the rate of the NBU on 04/07/2011 ** with tested motors and KP

Total assessment	Max. Point
Body and Comfort
Space ahead and convenience of seats
Space rear and convenience of seats
Overview
Ragge volume transformation
Design quality and fitting details
Quality noise insulation
Climate comfort
The smoothness of the turn on the empty / loaded car
Power unit and dynamics
Acceleration
Maximum speed
Work kp
Elasticity
Fuel consumption
Power reserve
Controllability
Sustainability
Maneuverability
Finance and Equipment
Basic price
Safety
Equipment
Loss of value
All operational costs
Insurance of OSGPO
Guarantee
Total assessment	500	324	328

Andrei Voloschenko
Photo Sergey Kuzmich

If you have found a mistake, please select the text fragment and click Ctrl + Enter..

In Moscow, we would not have happened. First, Volkswagen would not give from the Press Park at the same time Passat and Passat SS - marketers of the bones will fall, but will not allow a "related" comparison. And secondly, the newest Passat of the seventh generation has not been sold yet in Russia. But he was ... in Kiev!

"A rare bird will take up to the middle of the Dnieper," wrote a classic. Our Passat CC 2.0 TSI and 220-strong Opel Insignia flies from Moscow in 10 hours, including half an hour of formalities on the border crossing Troyar Bachevsk. And on the shore of the Great River we were waiting for Passat 1.8 TSI, Infiniti G25 and the new Volvo S60 with a two-liter turbo engine.

Wonder Dnipro with quiet weather! And our cars ...

Is it a Passat or a whole Phaeton? Icher sacing chrome a falseradiator lattice. Bulky, solid, like Burger in the years. The interior has not changed almost unchanged: high landing in hard hand chairs, verified ergonomics and exemplary space on the back sofa. Under the hood cozy, the turbo engine 1.8 - on Russian cars he will develop 152 hp, but for the Ukrainian market he is already allowed for already 160 "horses".

Good overclocking! On the measurements of Passat, even on the unwanted winter tires, it was laid in passports 8.5 s to one hundred. The seven-step "robot" DSG with two dry clutches works clearly - gently takes from the place, on time changes. And the chassis ... Passat is Passat: "Clean" steering wheel, unambiguous reactions and excellent stability on a straight line. Although the asphalt under the wheels, even snow or ice.

Stylish speakers on the "metallic" wrist of the front panel went well to the Oskovina Volkswagen interior

The driving Kursk region, we could not help help the career of Mikhailovsky GOK (mining and processing plant) in the Kursk magnetic anomaly. The first ore was released here in 1960, and its stock would be enough for another 250 years. When Belzes are asked at the bottom of the 300-meter pit and crawl cars, it is difficult to assess the career scale, which surpasses the entire 100-thousand city of Zheleznogorsk

0 / 0

The marral chair of the Passat only looks flat - it is great fixes the driver and pleases the orthopedic profile

But we were implanted - or in the trade winds, the pensioners appeared to appear? In the city, the Baranka has to be rejected on unusually large corners, and monolithic stability on the track turns into with lance at the entrance to the turns. To perform a "enemy test", that is, drive around the obstacle at a speed of 65 km / h, the steering wheel rotate with interceptions!

Infiniti G25. The original architecture of the INFINITI central console does not harm functionality. In Volkswagen, on the contrary, - the design did not spoil the design. And there, and there you can navigate through the logical menu, touching the touch screen or pressing the real buttons. Volvo sometimes makes you think about what kind of key it is necessary to click, and during movement it is easy to hurt several at once. In Opel, fittings are large - do not miss, but to confirm the operation, having a shiny ring in the center of the console, inconvenient

Opel Insignia. The original architecture of the INFINITI central console does not harm functionality. In Volkswagen, on the contrary, - the design did not spoil the design. And there, and there you can navigate through the logical menu, touching the touch screen or pressing the real buttons. Volvo sometimes makes you think about what kind of key it is necessary to click, and during movement it is easy to hurt several at once. In Opel, fittings are large - do not miss, but to confirm the operation, having a shiny ring in the center of the console, inconvenient

Volkswagen Passat. The original architecture of the INFINITI central console does not harm functionality. In Volkswagen, on the contrary, - the design did not spoil the design. And there, and there you can navigate through the logical menu, touching the touch screen or pressing the real buttons. Volvo sometimes makes you think about what kind of key it is necessary to click, and during movement it is easy to hurt several at once. In Opel, fittings are large - do not miss, but to confirm the operation, having a shiny ring in the center of the console, inconvenient

Volkswagen Passat CC. The original architecture of the INFINITI central console does not harm functionality. In Volkswagen, on the contrary, - the design did not spoil the design. And there, and there you can navigate through the logical menu, touching the touch screen or pressing the real buttons. Volvo sometimes makes you think about what kind of key it is necessary to click, and during movement it is easy to hurt several at once. In Opel, fittings are large - do not miss, but to confirm the operation, having a shiny ring in the center of the console, inconvenient

Volvo S60. The original architecture of the INFINITI central console does not harm functionality. In Volkswagen, on the contrary, - the design did not spoil the design. And there, and there you can navigate through the logical menu, touching the touch screen or pressing the real buttons. Volvo sometimes makes you think about what kind of key it is necessary to click, and during movement it is easy to hurt several at once. In Opel, fittings are large - do not miss, but to confirm the operation, having a shiny ring in the center of the console, inconvenient

0 / 0

But even the beaten roads are new Passat "Leans" so that Kiev seems to be quite European capital without any discounts. Pits? Yes, while there is. But behind the wheel of the Passat, only muffled tire slaps will be removed.

I wonder if Passat CC will be even more comfortable? After all, CC is somehow Comfort Coupe.

Do not find that the shape of the rear dimming lights of the trade wind resembles the eye of the dragon?

A squat body, side windows without framework, but at the same time four doors and a thousand trunk - like a regular trade wind. Of course, beauty requires the victims: sitting in the car, the rising people have to bend in half, the review of worse, the landing "verse" is low ... But what are the chairs: you sit like this chair! And behind only slightly closer than in the usual Passat.

The two-liter turbo engine is beautiful: 7.7 s to a hundred even on soft tires Nokian Hakkapeliitta R. "Robot" here is already a six-speed, with wet clutches - usually it works softer than the "dry" seventure. But this Passat CC significantly vibrated when moving from the place, and when the clutch discs, the clutch disc was blocked too late - and dragged the car forward.

The main character of our test will be the updated Opel Insignia sedan, but at the same time the examiner will be the leader among middle-class sedans - Volkswagen Passat.

Passat is a whole phenomenon in the market, it personifies the sedans, as a symbol of the middle class divides the segment into two halves: to the budget middle class and premium middle class. None of the car in the D-segment could not resist equal.

Sedans from Opel and Ford for a long time were in the shadow of this ideal middle class car. Opel Insignia went to the update with a modest circulation of 600 thousand cars. The company Opel was entrusted with the role of the flagship of the brand model line. The ruin route of the company from Rüsselsheim began after the start of its cooperation with General Motors. The parent company, though not regretted funds on the development of Opel, but a technological breakthrough was not observed a very long time. As it seems to us, it is now Opel begins his rebirth for a native European market. At the last recently, the Frankfurt Auto Show Opel presented an updated lineup of Insignia. The main surprise in the new Insignia was the emergence of a full drive and an off-road version of the Country Tourer.

Volkswagen Passat Wagon in Europe is considered one of the most practical cars in the market.

The novelty has become an attractive predecessor both outside and inside. After modernization, the car began to look solid thanks to the new lighting and the radiator grille. In the cabin of changes even more - the dashboard in the novelty is made of new materials, and its form has become more ergonomic. The multimedia system in its capabilities caught up with the one that is installed on Passat. The interior of the car is simply pleasing to the eye, the quality of the finish materials finally began to meet the claimed claims of Opel on Premium.

Interior Volkswagen Passat Even a few years later, it looks modern and high quality.

In addition, the technical part of the car was seriously updated. Now customers will be able to choose from 9 different motors in the range from 110 to 326 hp. and three types of body: wagon, sedan or elefbeck.

In Opel, they did not really seek to reduce the mass of the car, they went to another way. The main task in front of the engineers was to achieve maximum optimization in the operation of the car systems. This is most noticeable according to the characteristics of the engines. A turbodiesel volume of 2 liters and before that was one of the best in the class, and now it has become more economical and on the European classification reached the level of energy "A +". You ask, what does it mean? This means that now when buying such a car in Europe, you will pay less automotive taxes and fees. Engine power is 120 hp in the basic version and 140 hp In more powerful. Such a motor is equipped with a 6-speed gearbox and start / stop system. Fuel consumption at the same time is only 3.7 liters per 100 km of mileage. Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI is stated as the most economical car in the D-segment. The charged version of Biturbo CDTI at a capacity of 195 hp With the help of two turbines, 400 Nm of the moment gives.

Opel put on insignia not only diesel, but also gasoline engines. Opel motors of a new generation with turbocharged and direct injection, which was called SIDI, have a volume of 1.6 and 2 liters. 1.6 SIDI Turbo has a power of 170 hp and 260 nm of torque. The more powerful 2.0 SIDI Turbo received 250 hp and 400 nm of torque. Both motors are aggregated both from mechanical and with an automatic 6-speed gearbox. Customers will be able to order all-wheel drive transmission on both variants of the motor.

Opel For economical buyers will offer the version of Insignia LPG equipped with an engine running on a liquefied gas. Consumption per 100 km of mileage in such an insignia will be 7.6 liters. Insignia on Gaza meets the ecological standards of Euro 6 and refers to cars that meet the energy consumption class "A".

Increase the level of comfort, reduce noise and vibration when driving new shock absorbers and steering steering, as well as a reconfigured chassis. The most powerful and sports version of Insignia will be OPC. The charged OPC model will be equipped with a six-cylinder motor 326 hp and 435 nm of torque. Such indicators will provide a car overclocking up to 100 km / h in 6 seconds. The maximum speed OPC will be 250 km / h. The luggage compartment in the universal will stand on one level with the trunk of Volkswagen Passat.

The main innovation in the new Insignia has become an information system called IntelliLink. This is the new branded multimedia company Opel, which debuted on the kid Opel Adam. Thanks to IntelliLink, now management of all functions in the car has become much intuitive and easier. Connect a smartphone to the system and even a child will be able to use it with all its capabilities. We recommend ordering an optional Navi 900 Europa Touch on the car - this is the most advanced system of the company, it opens access to all functions and menu of the machine. It is equipped with an 8-inch high-resolution touchscreen screen.

On the color dashboard display, such indicators are displayed as fuel consumption, motion speed, engine turnover and navigation system data. Updating the entire electronic filling of the machine will have a positive effect on its sales in Europe. In Ukraine, such an advantage can play a decisive role when choosing a car. The price of a similar multimedia system on Volkswagen Passat is many times more than Opel.

Comparative Test Table (maximum number of balls in assessment - 10)

Parameters	Opel Insignia.	Volkswagen Passat.
Appearance
Basic equipment
Options (package)
The quality of the interior finish
Patency
Noise insulation
Braking
Presentation of ownership
Price loss
Cost
Safety
Fuel consumption
Costs for maintenance
Controllability
Individuality
The cost is optional equipment
Dealer network
Reliability

As the leaders of the D-segment, both cars received good grades. They set the bar for the other machines in the class of middle class sedans. Opel Insignia in Ukraine is cheaper than Volkswagen Passat. Updated Insignia in the basic configuration was estimated at 220 thousand UAH, and Passat cannot be cheaper than 286 thousand UAH.

Spring morning sun blinds, reflected in chrome details in front of a car - we are going to the West. Ahead of the diesel "Opel-Inseignment", followed by an updated "Honda-Accord", and on the shores of the Baltic there are a fresh "Passat" - a popular Sedan "Volkswagen" is already in the seventh generation.

The next ditch of the federal highway "Baltia" brought to the idea: But the drivers of many countries that west of Russia will never be able to assess some properties of their cars. Until you go back in the opposite direction - east.

Invitation to the journey

No matter how good the car is familiar with which daily wheeled around the city, the fence fees are always open in the car something new.

Opel seat is very tough and at the same time formless. In the city, this is not particularly annoyed, and on the highway it is better to reduce the lumbar backup. But completely comfortable, the Opolevian chair still did not become: at times, each of the experts fucked in an attempt to slightly change the pose.

In Honda-Accord more convenient: the landing did not want to change the whole road. Although the pillow would not hurt to make more authentic.

The Volkswagen seat is simply and surprisingly fit with all experts regardless of the complex. Approximately the rear sofa those who will happen to travel in Passat. Even behind our two-meter photographer, there is enough space in all dimensions, you enter and leave the agility of an athlete and the dignity of a businessman.

Honda will disappoint the rear passengers. At least those who have passed the youth age. The narrow door of Tolakovo hangs over the arch, the leg of an adult is barely squeezed between the sofa and the front chair, while the back wipe the dust from that very arch.

SELECTED? In the ceiling did not resume? If not, your growth is no more than 180 cm.

In "Opel", everything is expected normally.

Press and turning

While pushing in urban traffic jams, use the buttons and all sorts of switches even an unfamiliar car is not only easy, but sometimes even interesting. However, the long road and in this discipline makes special requirements. Having drove on the "Opel" without a small 3000 km, we never learned to press the buttons unmistakably. It seems to be all near, and the feeling of chaoticness has been preserved. Obvious cons: fuzzy central light switch, on which you mow your eyes all the time, an uncomfortable ring that performs the functions of the Enter button, the clumsy twist of the on-board computer in the middle of the turn signals. It's nice that the navigation "Insignia" knows not only Russia, but also many other countries, including Latvia. True, normally oriented only on the main roads.

The navigation "Honda", by the way, believes that the world ends on the border crossing "bugs". The rest of the buttons and levers are convenient and pleasant - it looks smart.

By the way, the current "Passat" made a noticeable step forward in the interior. Obviously, the German designers took into account the criticism of the academic-inexpressive interior decoration of the former model. Light strokes - small arrogant clocks, bright chrome edging, other trifles - stylists managed to paint the interior not to the detriment of iron ergonomic logic. As the colleague said, feeling on the tips of the fingers. "Passat" with us, however, simply, rather than competitors - without navigation and some other frills. But doubt that the additional buttons would be positioned by the mind, it does not occur.

Complex Embare

In the city "Opel" seemed hard. He was nervously twisted on each, even a meager barbell ... and completely transformed with an increase in speed. The car smoothly steals above the road, it devies not only small, but also deeply deeply irregularities. It is not afraid of "insignia" and waves, it is safe and even changes the trajectory, falling into asphalt rails. Okay! But those who go to the "Insignia" there, "in Europe", they do not even know about these advantages. True, I regret them!

"Honda" a little sharper "Opel" reacts to the taxi. It's great to hold the road, as long as she is at least relatively smooth. Small grooves suspension is quite well, but large often skips. Yes, and on the waves of the possibilities of short-terrestrial suspension is sometimes missing. The car jershits, when landing, almost a chir-tale on the asphalt (or something similar to asphalt). The sharp steering wheel responds to nervous behavior in the kolas. If they are "laid" in areas where you need to go on overtaking, then the rally skills are required to hold the car within the framework.

To test "Passat", I had to pretrately clam on provincial Latvian tracks in search of such federal. Found with difficulty. Not perfect, of course, - chosable, ditches and ruts are not enough, but something like. Small irregularities suspension smoothes well, but the car does not like the car: repeats the profile of the road, even if it is not so reliably like "Honda", but still too diligently. "Opel" in this nomination "Volkswagen" loses.

For noise, the assessment of "insignia" was reduced only because the motor would hardly be grunk at idle and roasts during acceleration. At high speeds "Opel" noise does not dock, like its competitors.

Not only in the city, but also on the highway speakers there are enough 200 strong "Honda", and 160 strong "Opel" and even 140 strong "Volkswagen". In our hands it turned out to be rather strange from the Russian Passat: poor salon, not the most powerful diesel and manual six-speed box. In Western Europe, such cars use good demand, we have such a modification to sell (at least yet) will not. Therefore, first of all paid attention to the properties, with the motor not related. And yet a few words about the power unit say: the engine is travelers, the transmissions are chosen correctly, although the clarity of switching (especially the reverse) could be higher.

There are almost no complaints to brakes. However, Volkswagen has the informativeness of the pedal at least on the micron, and above. From the first pressing there is an impression: the whole previous life went on this car.

In real conditions, "Opel", even with very fast overtakers, practically does not lag behind the cholesterus "Honda". "Insignia" only reacts longer to pressing the gas pedal to the floor. And in more calmer modes of the machine, almost imperceptible, close to reference switching.

Passat has a mechanical box in the car of this class for us looks foreign.

But diesel behaves canceled. Although it seemed that it would not be completely powerful for the car with a curb weight of more than 1,500 kg. Complexes from our drivers, alternately testing "Folz" in the city and on the highway, did not arise. If you do not blame the car, the transmission can be changed altogether through one: the motor pulls from about 1700 rpm.

For the entire trip "Insignia" with a rather high average speed, according to the onboard computer, an average of 6.8 l / 100 km, the gasoline "Honda" is about 8 l, well, and "Passat" on the roads of Latvia, where the average has come out under 90 km / h, laid 5 l / 100 km.

Rotary moments

Machine controllability was evaluated on the Sport Complex "333" highway, which is just half an hour from Riga.

Opel-Inseigning is distinguished by some kind of disabilities. Take at least a sharp, obviously overloaded with artificial stabilizing steering force. Or the suspension - rather carnish, oriented obviously on not very good roads: in the settings at least sportiness, but with a stock of the ability to resist the pits and koldobin. On the smooth road "Opel", not always enough integrity, college behavior. The non-disconnected completely electronics is more good, because sometimes "insignia" strives too much to vil the feed. But on the usual highway, the car is convenient, tirelessly. Against the background of the opponents, he and here a little lack of collections, expressive reactions, but in the rest of "insignia" looks quite reliable and balanced.

Honda-Accord is especially good on the smooth, smooth asphalt. Azart is added to clear, balanced responses to the taxiing, which is already familiar to ride on ordinary roads. Despite the mass and size of the car, quickly forget about his business purpose. Now the driver is one on one at a speed, considerable overloads and an accurate, understandable steering. In other devias, an excess of the desire to the front-wheel drive to fall out the outside of the intended trajectory is felt. But it is perceived more like a feature of behavior, and not as an annoying flaw.

Volkswagen-Passat attracts the right efforts on the steering wheel and reference reactions. In everyday life, he will seem even collected and more precisely "Honda". However, calm and calmness, as well as the lack of a driver's excitement, are the factors that hinder the Volkswagen to the championships on the racing route. He diligently, as if on a given line, there is a complex turn, sometimes even breaking into controlled sliding electronics. But all this as if necessary, without a desire to make the soul of the driver stuff.

Ludza - please, Paldies - thanks

The sky, the sea, the sand once prestigious in the USSR of the Baltic resorts has not changed since then, and the infrastructure has become much better.

Latvia from Moscow by car is the easiest on the highway M9 "Baltia" - to Riga a little more than 900 km. The coating is unstable: from quite decent in Moscow and Pskov regions to frankly ugly, especially at the removal of 300-350 km from the capital. But the main problem is an unpredictable border. On the formalities usually takes hours and a half, but it happens that there are eight-nine hours. This is due to the number of passenger "fuel trucks". Residents of the border areas of Latvia are transported in pots (not always full-time, judging by the duration of filling and tricks, such as subdomains of the car while refueling), cheap Russian gasoline. At the same time - cigarettes and some snack. Out of turn on both sides unconditionally misses travelers with children.

Opel Insignia, Honda Accord, Volkswagen Passat: Vostok - West

A few years ago, all these cars could be found in the price lists of dealers at a price of about 30,000 dollars. Today, any of these cars can be purchased in less than 13,000 dollars. But which of them is better?

To do this, let's try to analyze all the parameters. Mainly focus on how many these cars are standing in the secondary market, as they often break and how much roads are in service. But we will not leave without attention and subjective impression of machines and behavior on the road.

Acquaintance

The goal was clear: Compare Volkswagen Passat is one of the most popular used cars, with an equally famous Ford Mondeo. But who choose as a third party? Finally the choice was made - Opel Insignia. He is also German, and therefore, probably, closest to the opponents.

And, so we present. Opel Insignia, Hatchback, 2009, Mileage 138,000 km, gasoline turbo engine. Volkswagen Passat, Sedan, 2011, Mileage 176,000 km, Highline equipment, Turbodizel 2.0 TDI (140 hp). Ford Mondeo, Liftback, 2010, Mileage 151,000 km, Turbodiesel. All cars are equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission.

Volkswagen Passat is the youngest and most expensive car in the dough, and at the same time it has the biggest mileage. His choice is not random - the Passat of this year of release is the next generation, as close as possible to the predecessor B6. For three years and a decent portion of kilometers, the German sedan is well preserved.

First impression

Nothing does not affect the choice of the car as the first impression. From the moment you first see it with your own eyes from the distance of the meter, and before the door opening, you can already make a purchase decision. If only do not prefer a certain brand and model. And here will be very difficult MONDEO.

Ford Mondeo from the whole triper makes the impression of the most ancient and battered car. And the point here is not in a specific instance. Just the salon looks morally outdated, like a partially digital dashboard. Ford seems much older than their rivals. Chromaste and build quality. In addition, the test sample seems to be in the hands of not the most responsible and not the most pure owner.

All rotating ventilation holes are broken, the central console around the gear lever will unpleasantly violet, and all open spaces are slightly worn. Even the seats, although not torn, but look bad. And the damaged trunk upholstery is a common phenomenon since the time of the old Mondeo.

Opel Insignia, despite the years, looks still good. At least outside. Inside everything is not so nice. Mainly due to not the best ergonomics, a close salon and the presence of solid plastics. But the interior of the whole Trinity has the least signs of aging. Probably, this is due to the fact that the owner cared for the car and regularly retracted in the cabin.

Volkswagen Passat the most modern. But this does not mean that Passat in the leaders. His mileage explicitly hints that no one wipes the car with a cloth every day, and he traveled not only on holidays and weekends. But, if you do not pay attention to the rubbed steering wheel and remembered leather chairs, the interior still looks good.

Nevertheless, the cruise control lever is a bit scratched, the ventilation holes are moved with difficulty, and the back can be heard a loud knock and script of plastic. But taking into account the mileage, the salon is in very good condition. In his appearance it was possible to assume that the sedan passed no more than 100,000 km. Apparently therefore Volkswagenes are so popular - with a mileage of more than 300,000 km, they look much better than competitors who have passed half of the way.

As for the first impression, the most positive produced Opel Insignia. Its interior at first glance is strict and slightly boring, but better and with fewer signs of wear. At the very least, Ford Mondeo is not impressive both outside and inside.

Driving

Compare car behavior was not easy, since Opel Insignia was equipped with a gasoline engine. But, despite this, he could not avoid a cruise through the city streets. And yet managed Opel was not very nice. The clutch twisted (although judging by the records, it was recently regulated), the pedals have a vague effort, but the engine is surprisingly elastic. The heavy steering wheel is too sharp and not enough informative.

Passat is more pleased. It has a lot of space, the pedals have natural resistance, and the electric powerfulness is informative and creates pleasant efforts on the steering wheel. A significant proportion of a positive impression is made by unobtrusive pointers, an ergonomic and easily accessible front panel. All switches and buttons required by the driver are in their places.

Driving Mondeo is even more pleasant. Its clutch grabs more smoothly, and the engine is softer reacts to the gas pedal. The 2-liter aggregate of the Passat during overclocking the sounds typical for older diesel engines, and has too bright turbo-hotspots. Mondeo turbodiesel is more calm and predictable. Steering with mechanically active resistance is practically ideal. Largely due to the classic hydraulic device.

Thus, the best in the city was Mondeo, Passat in second place, and insignia on the third - mainly due to clutch problems. And this problem is not only a specific instance. All Opel Insignia, and diesel and gasoline modification, have a clutch, calibrated in a strange way.

The city on the highway is changing. Opel manifests itself much better. The chassis demonstrates a good compromise between rigidity and comfort. Thanks to the sharp steering wheel, the insignia aggregates the direction of movement, and the roll depends on the speed of entering the turn. A rather strong gasoline engine provides a dynamic acceleration, and the responsiveness is inaccessible to diesel engines of other rivals.

Insignia boasts large anatomical seats: Comfortable, not too soft and reliably holding the body. However, the equipment of the car is medium. This is an inexpensive equipment without an adaptive chassis, without xenon headlights. Apparently the first owner wanted only a powerful engine and excellent chairs.

Insignia is a car in which you can do a long way without back or neck. But Passat and Mondeo in higher equipment are equipped with good seats. If you decide to buy one of these cars, it is better to look for copies in the highest sets: Highline for Passat and Titanium for Mondeo. You will receive chairs from better materials and, above all, with better body support. In poorer seat modifications, as a rule, less comfortable with fabric upholstery and flat circuit, which will affect long distances. Basic Ford is deprived of a digital dashboard.

VW and Mondeo are no less pleasant on the highway. Passat from our triple is a real highway cruiser, which is not enough for rapid turns. On the uneven road, a comfortable chassis shakes the Passat, and the car begins to swim. But it is significantly only at high speeds. The Mondeo also behaves approximately. It recruits speeds easily, like the Passat, but at high speeds has a greater power supply.

Manages Mondeo uniquely better than all in the test. Ford sharply responds to the discharge of the gas pedal, and is better prolonged turns. Passat is a bit bored and sterile, but unshakable stable. Insignia is something among the rest: reacts with more readiness than the Passat, but not so excited as Ford.

On the highway, the Volkswagen reigns - exquisite, lightweight, dynamic and comfortable. Ford boasts its enthusiasm and excellent responsive steering. Here Opel is again in the center. Although he is comfortable, but noticeably lags behind the trade wind in refinement. However, on the country road, the German hatchback moves more confident, and its chassis allows you to withstand even faster pace than Mondeo. But insignia is not so well managed.

Practicality and capacity

From the point of view of practicality, formally, worse than all Volkswagen Passat, as it has a standard sedan body. But his trunk is the largest at the capacity - 565 liters. While Ford has 540 liters, and Opel is 530 liters.

And, nevertheless, the body of the sedan has limited ability to use the luggage compartment. Loading opening is not so big so that you can easily put a beer box there. In this regard, the trunk Mondeo and Insignia is better. The transport capabilities of the MONDEO are significantly increasing after folding the rear seats, but a high step is formed, and the trunk finish is quickly spoiled over time. Materials used in insignia and Passat, more wear-resistant. As for the capacity after folding the rear seats, the difference between Ford and Opel is not so sensible: 1460 and 1470 liters, respectively.

On the second row there is enough space in all three cars. But Opel calls the attack of claustrophobia - small rear windows, massive racks, thick doors and black plastic everywhere. The most comfortable passengers of Passat, besides, there are less noise from the rear wheels. The Mondeo is quite civilized, but in terms of comfort, it is slightly pronounced to the indigenous Germans.

Reliability

Consider various statistics of various rating agencies. According to ADAC among cars at the age of 3 years, insignia has 4 class of reliability with a frequency of failures 11.8%, i.e. Faults are found in each ninth car. Mondeo received 3 class of reliability with an indicator of 9.3% or each 11 car, Passat - 2 class, 3.9% or every 26 car. For age category, 5 years, the situation has the following form: Opel - 3 class, 24.5%, Mondeo - 4th grade, 29.3%, Passat - 2 class, 15.7%.

According to TUV Insignia looks more attractive. When evaluating serious and easy defects at the age of 2-3 years, Opel ran to the first refusal of 64,000 km, and the proportion of serious defects is 8.2%. Passat passed 79,000 km, but the proportion of defects is 10.7%. The most problematic was recognized by Ford - 69,000 km and 12.9%. At the age of 4-5 years, the proportion of defects was distributed as follows: Insignia - 8.9%, Passat - 13.7%, Mondeo - 15%.

Typical malfunctions

Ford Mondeo.

The main problem of Ford Mondeo, especially the first years of production - the quality of finishing materials. Even after a relatively small run in the cabin, plastic began to creak, and the interior looked as if the distance was walking three times more. Soon, he gave itself to know the chassis, which often had to repair, barely mileage passed for 100,000 km. Although it all depends on where the car is used.

From the point of view of the cost of operation, the FlexFuel version is very interesting, which allows the engine to operate on bioethanol E85. The 2-liter atmospheric is not an athlete, but quite a reliable unit. Gasoline EcoBoost suffer from problems with an engine control unit, which is a weak place of Ford Mondeo. The 2-liter turbodiesel was supplied to us without solid particle filter. But it is possible to learn about the VIN code.

As for turbo diesel engines, in addition to conventional hassles, the first two years of production, the injection system was concerned. More often in this was guilty of low quality diesel fuel. Owners who use good fault additives practically did not come across. It is worth noting that the scale of the problem is not so great as with the monnderth of the previous generation.

Evidence and electronics are found: remote control of the central locking, electric drive seats, audio and navigation system, heated front and rear window or mirrors. Sometimes the reason is only in the distorted fuse, but it is necessary to check the operation of electrical equipment.

A bunch of a 2,3-liter motor with automatic transmission - not good enough. Such a car consumes a lot of fuel, but not dynamic enough.

In addition to reliable mechanics, a 6-speed automatic and a 6-speed automated box with two couplings were offered. Both automatic transmissions are fairly stable. The main thing is not to forget every 60,000 km changing the oil in the box.

Opel Insignia.

Although diesel engines Opel rough and noisy, but very reliable. Nevertheless, avoid an irreversible process of wear of the turbocharger, two-mask flywheel, nozzles and a sump filter is hardly possible. But these are realities of all modern diesel engines. And in the case of Opel, these defects are not numerous and occur only at large runs.

Like any other car, Opel Insignia needs regular care. If you change the oil in time, Opel engines will serve as faithful for a long time. It is necessary to be ready for large fuel consumption by gasoline engines, especially 1.4 Turbo and 1.6 Turbo. The 2-liter turbo is very good, but incinerates at least 9 liters per 100 km.

The biggest problem is Insignia - electronics. Failures occur in the work of the on-board computer, audio systems, climate control, heating seats and electric drives. It is not a dogma, but when inspection of the car, be sure to make sure that the electrical equipment is working.

If you look after Opel with a machine or a full drive system, carefully test the operation of the nodes. Pay special attention to crunch or other strange sounds. They should not be. To check, make a couple of circles with fully twisted wheels first in one, and then to the other side.

Weak place in insignia - brakes, especially in station worst. Not in terms of efficiency, but from the point of view of the resource. Large car weight wear them very quickly. Car chassis can be chewed after 100,000 km. Really often fail the hub bearings. Rarely when they withstand more than 120,000 km. Opel mechanics argue that insignia is found with problems in the suspension mainly when running more than 150,000 km.

Volkswagen Passat.

Passat is really a good car. At least, in terms of the quality of manufacture, materials and accuracy of their fit. The chassis resists road adversities pretty good. Even on Russian roads, the chassis does not require serious intervention to 150,000 km.

However, under the hood Volkswagen Passat there is nothing to boast. The first engines 2.0 TDI PD were very problematic. Vulnerable places: Lubrication system, injection system, quickly wearing clutch, two-masted flywheel and turbocharger. Significantly improved the situation in 2008, when a more modern engine 2.0 TDI CR was installed.

It is worth noting that we are talking about a turbodieser with a capacity of 140 hp Those unreliable, the aggregates had code designation WRC and were a block with a 16-valve head and a short-dealing Siemens injection system. Is that the lack of a smbed filter could be considered a plus. The aluminum head of the block could be a story at any time when run from 150 to 200,000 km. Exactly the same engine marked by the NMR code has the same dynamic characteristics, a more reliable mechanical 8-valve head and a diesel filter. However, the head often suffered from cracking. The benefit of the Bosch injection system turned out to be more resistant.

One of the common problems of 2-liter diesel engines VW balancing shafts and oil pump drive, which rarely looked around more than 150,000 km.

The positive side marks 1.9 TDI. But it is also characteristic of the characteristic problems of modern diesel engines, such as a turbocharger wear. About the weak 1.6 TDI is better and not to think. Passat for him is too heavy.

No less rainbow situation and gasoline engines. Avoid atmospheric 1.6 FSI and 2.0 FSI, which often feud and have a high fuel consumption. TSI engines are not so bad, but they suffer from problems with turbocharger. 1.8 TSI for large runs requires the elimination of "hanging valves", and sometimes defects of the block head. 2.0 TSI relatively reliable, but can spend oil.

A 6-speed automatic DSG box has been proven well with the "wet couplings" system. If you regularly change the oil in the intervals prescribed by the manufacturer, it is quite capable of passing more than 200,000 km without serious problems. DSG6 is used with 2.0 TDI, 2.0 TSI and V6 engines.

Even before changing the generation of Passat B6 (2005-2010) in a pair to Motors 1.6 FSI, 1.8 TSI, 2.0 FSI, 2.0 TSI, 2.0 TFSI received a classic 6-speed automatic with a torque converter. It is not as fast as DSG, but much more reliable. The box also needs to be regularly replaced by oil.

The 7-speed DSG robot uses the "dry couplings" system and to 100,000 km almost always delivers problems. Often it is required to replace not only clutch, but also mechatronics. And for this it may be necessary to 2,000 dollars. DSG7 was a pair to Motors 1.4 TSI, 1.8 TSI and 1.6 TDI. The regular oil replacement is vital not only automatic gearboxes, but also Haldex coupling (with the full drive system).

If you learn that the owner never changed the oil in a box or coupling, or at least exceeded the recommended replacement period by more than 40,000 km - run, do not look back. Unfortunately, many people simply do not know that oil requires a regular replacement. And then they are surprised that they refused the box.

For the Passat, the transparency of the history of origin and service is extremely important. Do not look at mileage, focus on the overall condition of the car. Used Passat very skillfully masks his age. The exception is not even cars that have passed more than 300,000 km. Avoid instances after chip tuning.

Situation in the market

The largest selection provides Volkswagen Passat, a little less popular MONDEO and INSIGNAY. For Passat 2008 asked from $ 8,000. For the new B7 2011, the owners want to get no less than $ 13,000. Opel Insignia is estimated approximately. Ford Mondeo is a bit cheaper: 2008 from $ 7500, 2011 - from 11,000 dollars.

The cost of spare parts

Cars are distinguished by various equipment. It is quite obvious that xenon headlights and lamps, windshields heated by anti-reflective coating and rain sensor are much more expensive than ordinary parts. Below in the table shows the approximate cost of those parts (in dollars), which is most often susceptible to insignificant injuries during accidents.

Detail	Ford Mondeo, $	Opel Insignia, $	Volkswagen Passat, $
Headlights - halogen
Headlights - Xenon		1280 (Adaptive)	1090 (adaptive)
front fender
windshield
radiator
set of shock absorbers and springs
set of brakes
Clutch (set)
two-disc flywheel

As you can see, repairing car data - the pleasure is not cheap. A sedan on twentieth discs, with an adaptive chassis, a swivel xenon, sports bumper and heated windshield looks beautiful. But keep in mind sooner or later something will break. Troubleshooting the base car will require smaller costs.

And now compare the approximate cost of various operations and consumables for maintenance.

Summarizing

Volkswagen Passat is a solid car that goes very well, qualitatively assembled, comfortable and exquisited, has a thoughtful ergonomics and is presented in the secondary market in a wide range. In addition, this is the most modern car in the troika.

Of the minuses, it is worth noting questions to the notorious reliability of TSI and TDI PD engines, DSG box. It is not worth throwing off the large number of disadvantaged and tortured copies, as well as popularity among hijackers and fraudsters.

Opel Insignia is definitely an interesting option in terms of design. Despite age, Opel still looks attractive. Of the advantages, it is possible to distinguish a fairly high mechanical reliability, a variety of engines and the presence of all-wheel drive modifications.

There are noisy diesel engines among the shortcomings, noisy diesel engines, not enough informative steering, a bit confusing ergonomics and electronics problems. In addition, the cabin is quite closely rear passengers, and the setting causes attacks of claustrophobia.

According to statistics, the most complaints of the owners of Ford Mondeo enters the address of the low-quality interior, which today seems outdated. For the Mondeo, subjective impressions of driving are assigned. According to its walking qualities, he is clearly the best of the troika. In addition, Ford offers the lowest official prices for the most sought-after original spare parts. And besides, it is cheaper, if you compare the rivals of one year, in a similar configuration and with the same mileage.

If you are important by running quality and a complete sense of control, then buy a Ford Mondeo. In any other case, the choice of one of these three cars will not be a mistake. The main thing is careful inspection and test drive. Stop inspecting as soon as you have at least the slightest doubts, and continue the search further. The choice is large enough.