Opel just revealed the European 2009 Insignia, a mid-size four door sedan that could point the way to the next Saturn here in the U.S. The car adapts the coupe-like roofline popular with recent models such as the Volkswagen CC and Mercedes CLS. The car will include all-wheel-drive, an active chassis, and (typical for Europe) a staggering choice of seven engines.

The company said that the interior will include red ambient lighting. Outside the car, the Adaptive Forward Lighting system includes nine different light beam settings, which automatically adjust to cater to various driving conditions. The car also includes LED-based daytime running lights that reduce CO2 emissions from 6 g/km to almost zero.

A mystery surrounds the car's platform technology. Opel says the car's all-wheel-drive system works together with the Insignia's Adaptive Stability Technology and its active FlexRide "mechatronic chassis system." (Doesn't that sound like something made up for Star Trek? I'll have to check Data's Positronic Matrix.) The company said it helps the car adjust to prevailing conditions and allows the driver to select settings to match his or her mood. Beyond that, Opel didn't provide much in the way of details.

Finally, about the seven engine choices: four are gas-powered, ranging from a 115-hp four cylinder to a 260-hp V6. The other three are direct-injection diesels, all 2.0-liter blocks with output ranging from 110 to 160 hp. There will also be an EcoFLEX version that offers "very low CO2" emissions. Look for the car to debut in the metal on July 22, 2008 at the London Motor Show; hopefully we'll get some interior pics and more specs next time around.

(Source: GM Media Online)