Vauxhall Insignia will swank new corporate crest

The Vauxhall Vectra-trumping, Ford Mondeo-goading new Insignia – set for launch at this years British Motor Show in July - will be the first of a new generation of Vauxhall to display a radical, more contemporary interpretation of its fabled Griffin logo.

The enduring badge of honour that's adorned successive Vauxhall models since 1903 has lost its traditional red backdrop in favour of a black finish, which serves to convey a more monotone air. Conversely, there are no plans afoot for Vauxhall showrooms and collective sales literature to drop the red vista.

For the most part, Vauxhall's exercise in over simplification has rendered the new look Griffin itself a sterner, more aggressive beast, whilst for the first time the Vauxhall name is spelt out on the apex above the less personable mythical bird.

Critically, the updated Griffin parts company with its tail, one arm and most of its most prominent wing, and would upset the RSPB were it not for the fact it belonged to legend as well as the front and rear of Vauxhall models.

It will make its first dealership appearance at Vauxhall HQ in Luton in July, before rolled out to all UK showrooms as of August.

The new badge will then be phased in across the range as and when Vauxhall models are superceded or simply revamped, following on from the mid-sized Insignia saloon is set to take off.