Our spy photographers recently spotted Opel->ke65 testing an interesting four-door coupe prototype, which is rumored to be the next-gen Opel Insignia->ke2972. Despite the heavy camouflage, the coupe->ke141-like roofline is obvious, and its hindquarters have a shape that is similar to that of the 2015 - 2016 Audi A7. The redesigned Opel Insignia is due out in 2017 with a styling heavily inspired by the 2013 Opel Monza Concept.

U.S. buyers should pay attention to this car since the current Insignia is the same as the 2014 Buick Regal. For years, rumors have suggested that Buick->ke17 could get a flagship or halo model inspired by the 2016 Porsche Panamera, and while this is definitely not that model, the hatchback->ke304 design is very similar. If Buick does offer such a model, it probably wouldn’t have much competition in the U.S. aside from the 2015 Volkswagen CC… assuming VW->ke94 develops a next-gen version of that sedan->ke142.

Speaking of Volkswagen->ke94, our source suggests that in addition to its sleeker design, the next-gen Insignia is expected to grow in size by almost four inches to compete with the likes of the Skoda Superb->ke1348. Like most modern cars, the added size won’t result in a heavier car, as the information also suggests a weight loss of almost 440 pounds compared to the current Insignia.

Although the interior camouflage is even more effective than the cladding on the outside, the next-gen Insignia could get some advanced cabin technology, including a digital dashboard similar to what was introduced on the Opel Monza Concept.

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Why it matters

The coupe-like shape of this prototype could back up speculation that Opel is working on a five-door Insignia sedan (as seen in the spy shots) as well as a Sports Tourer station wagon->ke143, but there is no word whether a traditional sedan variant is in the works. Expect to see the next-gen Opel Insignia show up in production form at the 2017 Frankfurt Motor Show->ke235, which is still more than two years away.

2013 Opel Insignia

Read our full review of the current Insignia here.

2013 Opel Monza Concept

Read our full review here.