!NEW! Official preview: Another version of the new Opel Insignia

Sneak peak:  Another version of the new Opel Insignia will be revealed soon...

!NEW! J.D. Power Report: Opel Meriva MPV Owners Most Satisfied Drivers

Opel wins renowned customer satisfaction survey with its compact van

Opel Meriva MPV 

The most satisfied compact van customers drive the Opel Meriva. In the J.D. Power Customer Satisfaction Report 2013, the flexible van from Rüsselsheim reached 80.6 percent in the VOSS Index, leaving all the competition behind. With the VOSS Index (Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction Study), the market research institute J.D. Power and Associates measures the satisfaction of car owners who have been driving a certain model for an average of two years and have the corresponding practical ownership experience.

On stage: Marcus Behrendt, Head of European Operations J. D. Power and Associates with Thomas Simon Vice President Quality at Opel (on right)

For the Meriva, the victory in the J.P. Power Report 2013 and the associated title “Vehicle with the highest customer satisfaction in the compact van segment in the J.D. Power VOSS Germany 2013” is the latest in a list of accolades. The Meriva has also already won the “Golden Steering Wheel” and the “Plus X Award”. And the customer favorite is one of the best-selling vans in Europe. Thomas Simon, Vice President Quality at Opel, sees flexibility as the Meriva’s key factor for success: “To be a winner in the J.D. Power Report, a car has to be convincing across the board, as no one can better judge the qualities of a model than the drivers themselves. So I am particularly delighted with this award, as it underscores that the Meriva leaves nothing to be desired in everyday use.”

Passed practical drivers’ test with flying colors

These report results have been published regularly in the car magazine “Auto Test” since 2008. The largest driver survey in Germany with around 18,000 online interviews examines the categories quality/reliability, vehicle appeal, service and ownership costs. By achieving high satisfaction levels in all categories, the Meriva came out number one in its class. The survey evaluated drivers’ opinions on 25 manufacturers and 106 model lines in ten vehicle segments.

Outstanding ergonomic concept with AGR quality seal and FlexDoors system

In addition to its attractive design, high quality and unique onboard flexibility, the Meriva’s success is also due to its outstanding ergonomics. It is the first and only production car in the world to have been awarded the prestigious AGR seal of quality by the “Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.” (Campaign for Healthy Backs) experts for its overall ergonomics concept.

Opel Meriva MPV - AGR Ergonomic Sport Seats 

A key component of the award-winning Meriva ergonomics concept is the revolutionary, patented FlexDoors system with its rear-hinged rear doors. For exceptionally comfortable access to the rear cabin, FlexDoors can open up to 84 degrees – much wider than the usual 68 degrees of conventional doors. 

Opel Meriva MPV - FlexDoors

FlexDoors are particularly convenient for parents who will find it easy to install Isofix child seats on the outer rear seats and to buckle up their children. When the front and rear doors are open at the same time, a safety zone is also created.

The Meriva boasts even more unique features with top ergonomics including the FlexSpace seating concept, the FlexRail center console and the optional, Opel-exclusive FlexFix bicycle carrier that is integrated in the rear bumper like a drawer. Prices begin at 16,670 euros.

!NEW! “Opel the Reliable“: From Gasoline Wagon to Astra Sports Tourer

• Since 1907: Opel Gasoline Wagon’s sobriquet is “The Reliable“
• Five-decade lifespan: Advertising slogan from the 1930s to the 1980s
• Endurance test success 2013: Trade journal calls Astra “Opel, the most reliable”
• 13^th Classic Car Event: Opel Quick Delivery Wagon meets Sports Tourer at the Opel Villas

The terms Opel and reliability are intrinsically tied to one another. In its recent 12/2013 issue, the respected trade journal auto motor und sport declared “Opel, the most reliable“, describing the best compact endurance test car of all time – an Astra Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI that did not have one single technical fault over the entire distance of 100,000 km. Opel Vice President Quality Thomas Simon says, “Typical Opel values are precision, efficiency and reliability.” Opel has a long tradition of quality, as the first cars with combustion engines from Rüsselsheim very quickly earned a reputation for being “reliable”. At a time when Otto engines still had to compete against steam and electric propulsion drives (!), the first Opel cars were convincing with their faultless operation and safe arrival at their destination.

 Opel Astra Sports Tourer CDTI BiTurbo (2013) and Opel Olympia CarAvan 'Schnelllieferwagen' (1953) 

At the beginning of the 1930s the brand embraced its good reputation and developed “Opel the reliable” in the form of a logo. From 1936 the ad slogan was used for all model lines. Then, during the time known as the economic miracle, the slogan really came into its own. From the Quick Delivery Wagon (Schnelllieferwagen) Olympia Rekord to the Rekord Cabriolet and stately Opel Kapitän – all starred in ads and in the cinema advertising that wildly popular at the time under the motto “The Reliable”. The 1950s were Opel years, when the brand rose up out of the ruins of the bombed Rüsselsheim plant to become a prestigious brand of the postwar period.

Opel Olympia CarAvan 'Schnelllieferwagen' (1953) and Opel Astra Sports Tourer CDTI BiTurbo (2013)

In the 1960s the advertising became more colorful, the model offer more extensive and the engines larger – the claim “Opel the reliable”, however, remained. The quality promise stood loyally to the new Kadett, even though the main message in its advertising was already “Opel Kadett - in a word, O.K.” Slowly but surely new messages crowded out the classic claim: “Opel Kadett. The car” or “Opel Rekord – the upscale mid-size class” were emblazoned on the posters. At least the logo got a tiny addition: under the blitz was now written “tested reliability”.

Opel Olympia CarAvan 'Schnelllieferwagen' (1953)

Yet the slogan from the 1930s again celebrated a comeback until well into the 1970s. The seal of quality “Opel the reliable” again adorned ads for the Rekord and Commodore! With a new design, it was also the ideal supplement to “ADMIRAL – the fast touring car” (to 1976). It was after that that traces of the original claim are lost. Instead, advertisers bet on the appeal of powerful V8 engines (“Badge for advanced drivers”, “For fast horse enthusiasts”) or the sportiness still ubiquitous today (“Opel Manta. Because you know what driving is about”, “Opel Manta. If conventional cars are too boring for you“).  

The new plan is called QUALITY!2022

But Opel never lost sight of the term reliability, remaining true to its tradition. Which is why Thomas Simon explains the strategy for the coming years as follows: “We are already on the right track with the quality offensive we began in 2007 – as the result of the auto motor und sport endurance test impressively shows. In addition, we have drawn up the plan QUALITY!2022 as an important component of our overall strategy DRIVE!2022. Our ambitious but realistic goal is to take over quality leadership in the automotive industry. Customer satisfaction with the product, service and the entire experience at all points of contact with the brand is the be-all and end-all.”

The past, the present and the future all come together at Opel under one common denominator – “Opel the reliable”. The German automaker also demonstrates this at the 13^th Classic Car Event at the Opel Villas in Rüsselsheim this coming Sunday, June 30. In the illustrious circle of beautiful Opel classic cars there will also be two special vehicles parked next to each other – the legendary Opel Schnelllieferwagen from 1953 and the faultless Opel Astra Sports Tourer from the auto motor und sport endurance test. When the 25,000 visitors expected at the event stroll around the two exhibition cars, they’ll see on the 1953 Olympia Rekord, large and clear: “Opel the reliable”.

!NEW! Opel Supervisory Board Honors Hans Barth

Unique career from apprentice to Supervisory Board Chairman

Farewell for Hans Barth: The Opel Supervisory Board member, who is leaving the board as he has reached retirement age, was honored by Supervisory Board Chairman Steve Girsky (on right).

Great honor for Hans Barth (71): The Opel Supervisory Board member, who is leaving the board as he has reached retirement age, was yesterday awarded the title Chairman Emeritus by Supervisory Board Chairman Steve Girsky. “This honorary title, awarded for the first time, is meant to express our appreciation of Hans Barth. He stands for a unique career in our company,” says Girsky. Hans Barth will remain an ambassador of the company, as the honorary title includes receiving invitations to all public events of the company.

In 1958 Hans Barth joined the Adam Opel AG and remained loyal to the company for 55 years. Therefore he recevied many thanks from Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, Chairman of the Adam Opel AG (on left).

Hans Barth, born in Mainz and living in Rüsselsheim, has remained loyal to the company for 55 years. In 1958 he joined the company as an apprentice and made his way to the very top of the company. One of his key activities was the leadership role in the European expansion program of the Opel brand. Finally he held the position of Vice President Project and Production Support and was a member of the European Strategy Board of General Motors Europe. Hans Barth has been a member of the Supervisory Board of Adam Opel AG since 1997 and served as Chairman of the Board from October 1998 through July 2005.

Hans Barth has been a member of the Supervisory Board of the Adam Opel AG since 1997 and served as Chairman of the Board from 1998 through 2005. Now was honored by the actual Supervisory Board Chairman Steve Girsky (on right) and Wolfgang Schäfer-Klug, Chairman of the Opel Works Council (on left).

!NEW! Tina Müller New Chief Marketing Officer and Opel Board Member

• Duncan Aldred to fully concentrate on sales and aftersales
• Dr. Thomas Sedran new President Chevrolet Europe
• Mark Adams to repatriate to Germany, responsible for GME Design

                     Tina Müller                 

Tina Müller (44) has today been appointed Member of the Board of Management, responsible for Brand Management, and Chief Marketing Officer at Adam Opel AG, effective August 1, 2013. With the newly created board function, Opel underscores the importance of brand management as a pivotal element of the company’s strategy.

“After the successful launch of our latest models, a key to future success is to modernize, profile and emotionalize the brand,” said Opel Supervisory Board Chairman Steve Girsky. “We are delighted to have acquired a renowned expert for this task with Tina Müller."

"With her valuable experience in the brand-driven consumer goods industry, Tina Müller will have a major impact on the Opel brand," says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. "The new role of Chief Marketing Officer within the Executive Board and the separation of marketing and sales show the high importance we attach to the subject of brand management. We will give the brand back the shine it deserves."

Duncan Aldred (43), previously responsible for marketing, stays Acting GME Vice President, Sales & Aftersales Opel/Vauxhall and Chairman and Managing Director of Vauxhall Motors. "In the highly competitive European market, Duncan Aldred can now concentrate on sales and aftersales," said Dr. Neumann.

Duncan Aldred 

Dr. Thomas Sedran (48), currently member of the Executive Board responsible for Operations, Business Development and Corporate Strategy, takes over as President and Managing Director of Chevrolet Europe in Zurich, effective July 1. "We thank Thomas Sedran for his outstanding work on the Opel Board and are pleased that he is taking the lead at Chevrolet in Europe," says Girsky. "As chief of strategy, Thomas Sedran made a significant contribution to the development of our ten year plan DRIVE! 2022 – not only with a number of measures to reduce costs, but also with many initiatives to raise the profile of the brand and stimulate growth, such as our return to football sponsorship and motorsport.”

Dr. Thomas Sedran                 

Mark Adams (51), Executive Director, Global Cadillac and Buick Design and GME Vice President, Design, will repatriate to Germany and assume the position of GME Vice President, Design. In addition, Mark will be the Champion for Opel/Buick brand strategies and design language. "This move will provide an increased emphasis on joint strategies across Opel/Vauxhall and Buick,” said Dr. Neumann.

                      Mark Adams                 

About Tina Müller:

Tina Müller began her career at L'Oréal Germany and then moved to Wella AG. She then worked with Henkel KGaA for 17 years. As Corporate Senior Vice President, she was most recently responsible for the region of Western Europe in the Beauty Care division. Tina Müller also made a significant contribution to the strong growth of the brand portfolio, particularly the tradition-rich brand Schwarzkopf, as chief marketing officer for its global business in hair cosmetics, body, facial and oral care. She is a widely recognized brand expert. In 2010 she was named "European Chief Marketing Officer of the Year" (Booz Company). Tina Müller has also been named "Marketing Manager of the Year" three times by the magazine "W & V”.

About Dr. Thomas Sedran:

Dr. Thomas Sedran was named Member of the Management Board of Adam Opel AG on April 1, 2012, in charge of Operations, Business Development & Corporate Strategy.

Sedran had been in charge of automotive business affairs for the Munich-based global management consultants AlixPartners since 2006. In this position he worked very closely with Opel/Vauxhall. At Opel he was responsible for developing and implementing business strategies for the long term growth of the company in Europe and beyond.

Born on October 13, 1964 in Augsburg (Germany), Sedran has spent most of his career as a management consultant. Before his time at AlixPartners, he worked for Roland Berger Strategy Consultants for over ten years, where his last position was as global head of the Competence Center Automotive.

He has a Master of Business Administration from the University of Hohenheim, Germany, and a Ph.D. from the Ludwig Maximilian University in Munich, Germany.

About Mark Adams:
Mark Adams has been Executive Director, Global Cadillac and Buick Design and GME Vice President, Design, since August 2012. Prior to this assignment, he had been GM Europe Vice President Design since June 1, 2007. In this capacity, he headed the newly established GM Europe design organization, including the Rüsselsheim-based GM Europe Design Center. He was responsible for the design of GM’s European brands Opel, Vauxhall and Saab, as well as certain Saturn products in North America.

Adams served in a series of chief designer positions at Ford Motor Company before joining General Motors in September 2002 as Director Exterior Design for the Opel brand. He was responsible for the exterior design of successful models such as the Astra GTC, Zafira, Astra TwinTop, Antara, Corsa and for the design language of Opel and Saab vehicles. In 2004, Adams became Director of Exterior Design for GM Europe and was responsible for the exterior design of all Opel, Saab and Vauxhall vehicles.

Mark Adams was born in London, U.K., on December 11, 1961. He studied both Engineering and Design. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree with honors in Mechanical Engineering (vehicle option) and a Master of Arts degree in Automotive Design from the Royal College of Art in London.

!NEW! Opel Leads Field Test: Vehicle Communication Improves Traffic Safety and Efficiency

Opel has overall responsibility for the 1.6 million test kilometers covered

sim^TD project: Results of one of the world’s largest Car-to-X field tests

Weather warning function increases road traffic safety 

         Opel Insignia Sports Tourer - sim^TD test vehicle

The results of one of the world’s largest field tests to enhance traffic safety and efficiency by using vehicle communication (Car-to-X) have now been presented in Frankfurt. In the sim^TD project (Safe Intelligent Mobility – Field Test Germany), Opel joined forces with 17 consortium partners to test the functionality, everyday suitability and efficacy of Car-to-X communication for the first time in real-life conditions. The vehicles in the test were electronically linked to each other and with the infrastructure. This enabled the exchange of information about, for example, weather and road conditions between vehicles, as well as between vehicles and the traffic infrastructure and environment.

Opel Insignia Sports Tourer with integrated Car-to-X technology

Describing the results of the project, Dr. Burkhard Milke, Opel Director Electric/Electronic Engineering, said: “In the field test, led by Opel in liaison with our partners, we were able to prove that traffic behavior can be positively influenced by the sim^TD functions. Traffic safety and efficiency were measurably increased. After a comprehensive survey of the more than 300 test drivers, it is also clear that the added value of Car-to-X technology for safe, relaxed and efficient driving was confirmed. As a result, wide market acceptance of the technology is expected.”

Since 2009, research has been conducted on the conditions necessary for a sustainable increase in traffic efficiency and safety under the project name “Safe and Intelligent Mobility – Field Test Germany” (sim^TD). The test fleet from all manufacturers, launched in 2012, comprised 120 vehicles and three motorcycles, which were all equipped with the same sim^TD technology for scientific comparability. With up to 120,000 test kilometers per week, over 1,650,000 kilometers were covered in more than 41,000 hours of driving during the field test. In addition, driving and traffic simulation tests were also conducted and compared to the real-life results.

Weather warning: An example of best communication networking

Among many other functions, Opel tested a new weather warning feature during the project. “Weather warnings and road condition reports are excellent examples of the connection between Car-to-X communication and the HMI (Human Machine Interface),” says Dr Milke. “They are at the top of drivers’ wish list for future communication systems. With the new generation of infotainment systems now offered in the Opel ADAM and to be presented at the IAA in the new Opel flagship Insignia, the technological foundation has been laid for stronger in-car connectivity with Car-to-X communication. But the concentrated establishment of a corresponding road and traffic infrastructure will be decisive for the commercial deployment of this technology. Opel will continue to play a large role in this.”

The road weather stations located in the field test vicinity, which already provide detailed information – used, for example, by road gritting trucks – communicate with existing vehicle sensors such as the rain sensor to issue warnings on adverse weather conditions. The critical parameters monitored were dew points, road surface temperatures, fog conditions and rainfall. The Human-Machine-Interface, used by all partners in the field test, was developed by DFKI, the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence.

Downloads: simTD technology leaflet (ENG)

                     simTD technology Prospekt (GER)

!NEW! First in class: Opel ADAM offers interactive voice control

• Now available: Revolutionary “Siri Eyes Free” iPhone integration
• The only small car: That answers the question “Are we nearly there yet?”
• Minimize distraction: Internet access via voice activation for more safety
• Siri for everybody: Free IntelliLink update in ADAM models manufactured before June 

Opel ADAM GLAM, SLAM, JAM

The Opel ADAM with the IntelliLink infotainment system is now also available with full integration for Siri Eyes Free, the unique intelligent assistant from Apple that helps you get things done whilst driving just by asking. Using a steering wheel-mounted button, customers with a compatible iPhone¹ running iOS 6 can direct Siri Eyes Free to perform a number of tasks while they safely keep their eyes on the road and their hands on the wheel. This is more than traditional voice activation – you can speak to Siri Eyes Free in ADAM just as you would a person with a conversational tone.

To minimize distraction, Apple and Opel take hands-free functionality even further than before with the Siri Eyes Free mode which enables you to interact with your Apple device using nothing more than your voice. Users will notice that their device screen does not display the Siri text conversation whilst using the feature in ADAM. This is one of the important safety measures Apple took together with Opel during the integration development to ensure upmost focus on safety.

      Opel ADAM GLAM Purple interior with IntelliLink

This unique feature is available free of charge in all IntelliLink-equipped ADAMs which are ordered now on. Customers who already own an ADAM with IntellilLink can also benefit from Siri Eyes Free. As Opel is offering a software update free of charge which enables the Siri Eyes Free functionality to be added to IntelliLink. The innovative IntelliLink system can be continually updated throughout the customers’ ownership to ensure in-car infotainment is just as up to date as their mobile communication. Opel ADAM customers should visit their Opel dealer to get the update.

To start sessions with Siri in Eyes Free mode, ADAM owners simply connect their Apple iOS device with the IntelliLink infotainment system via Bluetooth, pair with the system, and use the steering wheel voice activation button. Siri Eyes Free can be activated while other apps such as BringGo continue running in the background. Music or nav directions are automatically muted during this time.

In the Opel ADAM equipped with the IntelliLink infotainment system, owners can use Siri Eyes Free to:

• Make voice-activated, hands-free calls to Contacts on their iPhone
• Play chosen songs in their iTunes libraries without having to spend time scrolling through menus – and therefore being distracted while driving
• Listen to, or compose and send an iMessage, text message or mail to a phone number or anyone in saved Contacts
• Access Calendar and add appointments, read incoming notifications as well as configuration for alarm and notification settings
• And, of course, Siri also answers simple questions such as game scores, weather or the dates of national holidays

Opel ADAM GLAM - FlexDock iPhone docking station on centre loudspeaker 

On top of that, customers with the FlexDock system can also benefit from full Siri Eyes Free integration with their smartphone device front and centre on the dashboard. Simply dock any Apple smartphone, including iPhone 5, in the cradle and Siri Eyes Free can support with voice activation on other Apple Apps including Apple Maps. With Apple Maps in use, you can even ask Siri Eyes Free ‘Are we nearly there yet?’.

Opel ADAM GLAM - FlexDock SmartPhone docking station on centre loudspeaker

A further advantage of using the Opel FlexDock: the iPhone is automatically charged without the need for an additional cable so a discharged battery can be avoided.

Many capabilities for ADAM’s IntelliLink infotainment system

Opel’s new IntelliLink infotainment system, which made its debut in ADAM, is compatible with iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, as well as Android devices. The full scope of options IntelliLink offers in Opel ADAM also includes TuneIn, a global radio access app, BringGo, a navigation app, and Stitcher, a global podcast internet radio app. IntelliLink brings the connectivity and functionality of smartphones safely inside the car via a seven-inch, high resolution, full color touch-screen display with Bluetooth or USB connections. IntelliLink, the ultra-modern infotainment system, can therefore be as personal to use as the content kept on an iPhone or Android device. At the same time, OpeI IntelliLink is an affordable system: it costs 300 euros in Germany.

Standard infotainment for ADAM JAM, ADAM GLAM and ADAM SLAM (in Germany) is a CD 3.0 BT system with radio and CD players, featuring Bluetooth to enable hands-free calling and USB connections. In common with with IntelliLink, the AM/FM double radio tuner can be combined with DAB digital radio. And the whole infotainment system can be further enhanced with an impressive Infinity Sound System including eight loudspeakers.

¹ Siri is available in Beta only on iPhone 4S, iPhone 5, iPad (3rd and 4th generations), iPad mini and iPod touch (4th generation), and requires Internet access. Siri may not be available in all languages or in all areas, and features may vary by area. Cellular data charges may apply.

!NEW! Opel Mokka voted the best SUV in its class

The readers of the prestigious journal Off Road find the Opel Mokka top

The Opel Mokka is the most popular SUV in the Subcompact Class (SUV-B). This is the result, readers of Off Road magazine. 21.8 percent of them have chosen in this category for the new model of success and bring the Opel Mokka winning the first place in front of his rival Mini Countryman and Mitsubishi ASX.

Opel Mokka SUV

Since 1982, the readers crown the most popular SUVs annually. At the current survey, more than 74,000 four-wheel fans involved - in 13 categories they had the choice of 128 different models. With the new award, the Opel Mokka continues the hunt for consumer and trade prices, because so far acknowledged the trendy SUV already title as the "four-wheel drive cars of 2013" (Auto Bild wheel), the "Design Trophy" (Auto Zeitung) the "feel-Master" (Auto Bild) or the price as "car of reason 2013" (Good advice / Superillu) from.

Double Delight: sales man Carsten Saile celebrates with presenter and Off Road magazine editor Julian Hoffmann and   first place for Opel Mokka SUV 

High marks for cross-grades, design and economics

"This latest award demonstrates that we have met exactly with the mocha taste of customers. It speaks to his versatility that readers and experts, our model in completely different categories of off-road qualities of the design through to see the whole economy forward, "said Carsten Saile, Director of Sales Opel Germany. This is also reflected in the sales figures, because the mocha one of the leaders in the approvals in the SUV segment. Europe declined in the first eight months since the release of more than 100,000 orders a.

Opel Mokka SUV - Compact size, Big performance

The Mokka has a length of 4.28 meters, five people generous space. It also resolves the promise of Opel to combine attractive design with innovative technologies and features from higher vehicle classes, and these make it to a wider circle of customers available. Opel Mokka which leads to the safety lighting system AFL +, AGR ergonomic seats with the approval of the Healthy Back and the integrated bicycle carrier FlexFix the SUV segment. The second generation FlexFix can carry up to three bicycles at Mokka.

Opel Mokka SUV with fully integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier

These are numerous technologies available to improve ride comfort and increase safety, including the Electronic Stability Program ESP Plus including hill start and hill descent assist as well as the Opel front camera of the second generation with Front Collision Alert  (FCA) system, including road sign and lane assistance. The successful SUV is available from 18,990 euros (RRP incl VAT).

To the dynamic appearance of the compact SUV fit the comfortable, high seating position and high levels of functionality. A focus of development was on the chassis, which is made for use off-road. To further improve traction and handling the Mokka can instead equip with front-wheel drive. The adaptive 4x4 system automatically recognizes when traction is needed on all four wheels. Then forwards the electronically controlled center differential and continuously variable torque imperceptibly to the rear wheels, to ensure continued safe driving. The force distribution range from 100 percent front up to 50 percent to the front and rear axle, such as snow-covered roads. The entire wheel drive system weighs only 65 kilograms, so that economy and ecology are protected.

!NEW! Opel Insignia 2014 – The Engine and Infotainment Revolution

• Exemplary 103 kW/140 hp Turbo diesel with just 3.7 l/100 km and 99 g/km CO₂
• New Turbo gasoline Direct Injection units with 125 kW/170 hp and 184 kW/250 hp
• Trailblazing new infotainment generation with touchpad
• New body and interior design bring even more exclusivity
• World premiere at Frankfurt Motor Show in September

Opel Insignia 2014 - AFL+ Bi-Xenon headlights with new design

The Opel model offensive moves to the next level with the new Opel Insignia that celebrates its world premiere at the 65^th Frankfurt Motor Show (September 12 - 22, 2013). The top model shines with even more attractive interior and exterior styling, taking the award-winning design philosophy “sculptural artistry meets German precision” to the next level. New powerful and ultra-efficient direct injection engines like the two new-generation Turbo gasoline units and the 99 g Turbo diesel expand the wide portfolio. This minor emission puts the new 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine in the A+ efficiency class. Both variants (the 88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp according to EG Nr. 715/2007) consume either as the four or five-door model with six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop system just 3.7 liters of fuel per 100 km in the combined cycle (Sports Tourer: 3.9 l/100 km). Therefore the Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI is the most fuel efficient diesel car in its class.

Opel Insignia 2014 -  Front fascia in new fresh design

A host of chassis enhancements ensures higher agility and comfort. And a completely new infotainment system generation is now available for the Insignia. It integrates many Smartphone functions into the car and can be operated intuitively and simply via a Touchpad in the center console.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Interior with Premium Nappa leather

“The successful Insignia has already won 580,000 Opel drivers. The new Insignia will thrill even more – with a more expressive design, high-quality cockpit, intuitive operation of infotainment systems, exemplary powertrains like our trailblazing 99 gram Turbo diesel,” Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann describes the mid-size model’s revolution. “Our flagship is now more sophisticated and eye-catching – but even in midst of all this elegance, don’t forget what it’s all about: to offer drivers and passengers a comfortable and safe driving experience with state-of-the-art technologies at a really attractive price.”

Opel Insignia 2014 - Touchpad and Electric Parking Brake in center console

The top model can be ordered in Germany starting the 21^st of June as a four-door, five-door and Sports Tourer variant; prices begin at 24,325 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany.)

Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 2014 - Tailgate in new design with LED lamps

Sleek: Clearly arranged cockpit with new infotainment generation

The spotlight was on three criteria during the enhancement of the cockpit: clear, simple and thus intuitive operation, customization of the infotainment offer, and of course comfort and safety for driver and passengers, which is increased even more thanks to lowest-possible distraction from road traffic.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Improved cockpit with new steering wheel 

Intensifying the human-and-machine connection is the newly designed HMI (Human Machine Interface) instrument panel with an up to 8-inch high-resolution color display. In addition to the classic readouts like speed, rpm and fuel tank level, further information on navigation, smartphone use and audio options are directly in the driver’s line of sight and can be adjusted.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Newly designed Instrument Panel with 8 inch High-Res color display

The center console has a completely new feeling of subtlety and refinement, and it harbors a host of state-of-the-art technologies and functions. The black piano lacquer and chrome control panel was drastically simplified. It now has just a few buttons so that operation of the infotainment system and e.g. air conditioning is fast and intuitive.

Opel Insignia 2014 - New center console

The new infotainment generation in the Opel Insignia can be controlled over an 8 inch color display with touch operation. From the starting screen the driver can access all function and sub-menus such as radio stations, song titles, smartphone connection or 3D navigation map via button, touchscreen, voice control or the brand new touchpad. And the infotainment system can be individualized – up to 60 personal favorites (e.g. playlists, phone contacts, navigation addresses) can be stored.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Ergonomically integrated Touchpad

The touchpad is ergonomically integrated in the center console and offers a completely new way of quickly and intuitively accessing the infotainment system. Its illuminated, touch-sensitive surface reacts immediately to finger movements including haptic feedback and makes operation of the new infotainment generation child’s play without distracting the driver from the traffic situation. Even individual letters – for instance when searching for a song title in the database or a city in the navigation system – can be entered by fingertip on the touchpad.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Touchpad Handwriting

Additionally, Opel Insignia driver can control the newest generation infotainment system over newly designed, clearly laid-out steering wheel controls as well as voice commands. The advanced voice recognition function can be activated by the simple push of a button on the steering wheel controls and can also process more than one command at a time. The wide range of operating choices is the result of enhancements to the new infotainment generation.

Top: New-generation 99 gram Turbo Diesel and new SIDI Turbo gasoline units

The new Opel Insignia also makes a statement in terms of powertrain and chassis. While the mid-size model already received many accolades for driving comfort, handling and roadholding, the new edition plays in a higher league. Opel engineers made a host of improvements to the chassis including to the dampers, stabilizers and steering, resulting in decreased noise and vibrational behavior and even higher comfort.

The broad, newly expanded engine portfolio is tuned to performance and comfort without any compromises. The new Opel Insignia offers the choice between the three propulsion alternatives gasoline, diesel and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas); power output ranges from 81 kW/110 hp to 239 kW/325 hp.

The new Opel Insignia 2.0 CDTI is the eco and fuel-saving champion. Thanks to its new 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine, the 88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp variants emit just 99 g/km CO₂ (Sports Tourer: 104 g/km CO₂) according to EG Nr. 715/2007. This puts it in the A+ efficiency class, as the four and five-door models with six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop system consume just 3.7 liters of fuel per 100 km in the combined cycle (Sports Tourer: 3.9 l/100 km) – optimum values in this vehicle class. Both variants also boast superb torque, with the 88 kW/120 hp Turbo diesel providing up to 320 Nm and the 103 kW/140 hp model even up to 370 Nm – thanks to an automatic overboost function.

Opel Insignia 2014 - New 2.0 liter Turbo Diesel engine with 88 kW/120 hp or 103 kW/140 hp 

The top-of-the-line diesel is the 143 kW/195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI. The high-performance diesel with sequential, two stage turbo chargers reaches impressive torque of 400 Nm and is distinguished by its direct responsiveness as well as exemplary propulsion power across a broad rpm range.

The most prominent gasoline engines are the two turbo direct injection units: the 2.0 SIDI Turbo with 184 kW/250 hp and 400 Nm maximum torque as well as the 1.6 SIDI Turbo from the newest engine generation with 125 kW/170 hp and 260 Nm, and even up to 280 Nm with overboost (SIDI = Spark Ignition Direct Injection). Both boast superb power development and excellent running smoothness with high fuel economy. They can be coupled with a six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop functionality or with a new, low-friction six-speed automatic gearbox. In addition to front-wheel-drive, the 2.0-liter SIDI Turbo is also available with all-wheel-drive.

Opel Insignia 2014 - 1.6 SIDI turbo with 125 kW/170 hp and 260 Nm (up to 280 Nm with overboost) 

An alternative and extremely economic powertrain option is the 103 kW/140 hp Opel Insignia 1.4 LPG with maximum torque of 200 Nm. It meets – like its petrol version - the stringent guidelines of the future Euro 6 emissions standard. With fuel consumption of 7.6 l/100 km (Sports Tourer: 7.9 l/100 km) in the MVEG combined cycle and low CO₂ emissions of 124 g/km (Sports Tourer: 129 g/km CO₂), the Insignia LPG model is unrivalled in efficiency class A.  

A style of its own: Award-winning Opel design language with premium flair

The new Insignia evolves the multi-award-winning Opel design philosophy “sculptural artistry meets German precision” in the mid-size segment. The design theme articulates premium aspiration and dynamics with an unmistakable low-and-wide front graphic to visually pronounce its wide stance. The high-gloss chrome grille is wider and lower than before. The brand bar that cradles the Opel logo is leaner and includes winglets that link the eye to the re-designed headlamps. Depending on trim version, these come with bi-xenon lamps including the safety lighting system AFL+. All headlamps are executed in high gloss black with embedded chrome accents that enhance the technology within. The up-level headlamps include a wing signature daytime running light featuring energy-saving LEDs.

Opel Insignia 2014 - New AFL + headlights with DRL LEDs

The lower front fascia inserts are designed to appear slim and wide, in order to emphasize the upper grille size. Fog lamps are combined with wide black inserts and chrome accents. These grow from thin to thick as they near the wheelhouse to pronounce the width of the front design and the Opel Insignia’s top-class design.

Opel Insignia 2014 - New wider front grill

The side view of the new Insignia sedan and hatchback are clearly more differentiated than before through their unique tailgates and integrated spoiler design. The roofline of the five-door model fades out not until it reaches the spoiler trailing edge to emphasize a classic coupé silhouette. On the four-door variant, the crease line continues along the edge of the spoiler to emphasize length on the elegant sedan.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Side view with integrated spoiler

Opel Insignia 2014 - New rear end design 

This is also echoed in the rear, where the new Insignia features a wider and lower proportioned rear end design. The high-gloss chrome brand bar has been positioned lower on the tailgate and includes the brand logo. It extends into the tail lamps to include the slim-look reverse functions. The tail / stop functions of the split 2-piece tail lamps are executed as LEDs on all levels for sedan and hatchback. Characteristic for all body versions is the light design as a sharp “wing” signature.

Opel Insignia 2014 - New 2 piece LED tail lamps with wing signature

The new Opel Insignia also offers a host of technology, safety and comfort highlights. These include state-of-the-art radar and camera-based assistance systems ranging from adaptive cruise control to side blind zone alert, forward collision alert and premium seats with the AGR seal of approval and the keyless entry and start system “Open & Start”, to name just a few.

Opel Insignia 2014 - Interior with Premium Nappa Leather and AGR seats

Prices for the new Insignia start at 24,325 euros for the four-door model (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). With the 103 kW/140 hp 1.4-liter turbo gasoline engine and Start/Stop, it already comes with extensive standard equipment. This includes leather steering wheel, comfort seats, air conditioning and stereo radio 400 B.T. with 4.2 inch colour display, MP3 compatibility, audio streaming, USB- and Bluetooth connection.

Downloads: Opel Insignia 2014 Brochure (GER.)
                     Opel Insignia 2014 Price List and Tech. Spec. (GER.)
                     Vauxhall Insignia 2014 Brochure 
                     Vauxhall Insignia 2014 Price List and Tech. Spec.