!NEW! Valentino Rossi tested Opel Astra OPC

• Nine time MotoGP World Champion and Opel ADAM ambassador at the Sachsenring
• Rossi and lifestyle city car Opel ADAM stand for naughty fun and high precision
• "Vale" in the sporty Opel Astra OPC at the Grand Prix of Germany

Power Pack: The nine time MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi and his traveling companion - the 206 kW/280 hp Opel Astra OPC

The nine time MotoGP World Champion (125cc, 250cc, 500cc, MotoGP) and Opel brand ambassador Valentino "Vale" Rossi rode the Grand Prix of Germany on the podium. The Italians reached last weekend in MotoGP - Formula 1 for two wheels - in 3rd place. At the Sachsenring superstar enthusiastic once more with personality, creativity, energy, and at the same time the highest precision. Another common feature between a motorcycle champion Rossi and the lifestyle city car Opel ADAM, for whom he is a brand ambassador for several months: a bold, unconventional and absolutely unique appearance.

Opel brand ambassador in Italy - MotoGP World Champion Valentino Rossi

On his journey to the Sachsenring Valentino Rossi accompanied by a likewise very sporty Opel Astra OPC. The world motorcycle champion is traveling to almost every use in another Rüsselsheimer model. He not only shows his enthusiasm for the brand, but also his confidence in quality, safety, comfort and advanced technologies throughout the Opel range of time.

For use in the MotoGP Saxon Hohenstein-Ernstthal to "Vale" decided on the curve hungry Opel Astra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Newton meters. Thus, the OPC is the most powerful and fastest of all Astra. The sprint from zero to 100 creates the compact top athletes in just six seconds. The speed limit is race-ready 250 km / h.

!NEW! Opel/Vauxhall Ampera Leads Field at the ITU World Triathlon Series

Opel/Vauxhall sponsors one of the world’s largest triathlon series

The low emission electric Ampera ideally reflects this innovative sport

Athletes and crowd favorite with over 22,000 participants and 800,000 spectators 

Opel/Vauxhall Ampera Leads Field at the ITU World Triathlon Series

The Opel/Vauxhall Ampera is the official lead car at the three final European legs of the ITU World Triathlon Series 2013. Opel/Vauxhall is the official auto supplier and one the key sponsors of the competitions in Hamburg (July 20 – 21) and Stockholm (August 24 – 25), as well as the spectacular Grand Final in London (September 11 – 15). 

The Opel/Vauxhall Ampera leads the way – emission-free and silently – for the elite fields of triathletes at all three events, setting the stage for the sportspeople. As Europe’s best-selling electric car in 2012, it will also act as an environmentally friendly and comfortable shuttle service vehicle for dignitaries and VIPs.

“Triathlon is a rapidly-growing Olympic discipline among sports fans. It requires serious ambition, absolute perfection and enormous versatility – values that our Ampera also ideally represents,” says Opel CEO and dedicated marathon runner Karl-Thomas Neumann. “So we are delighted to be the only automaker to exclusively support the ITU World Triathlon Series in Europe with our emission-free electric vehicle." 

With a fully charged battery, the Ampera can cover between 40 and 80 km purely electrically and with zero emissions before the clever range-extender concept kicks in and enables a driving range of up to 500 km without requiring a filling station stop. The spacious sedan has room for four occupants and their luggage or sporting equipment.

ITU President and IOC Member Marisol Casado says, “The Opel/Vauxhall Ampera delivers power and endurance in a sustainable format, which reflect triathlons core components and key values for the International Triathlon Union. We are delighted to partner with a company that shares our same message."

Triathlon series attracts enthused athletes and spectators on multiple continents

In total, more than 22,000 participants from every continent are expected to take part in the final three events of the premier triathlon series. In addition, an estimated 800,000 spectators will cheer on both the amateur participants and the world’s best triathletes across the course. In Hamburg, Stockholm and London, the elite athletes will compete for precious points to decide the 2013 World Championship title. The ITU World Triathlon Series has already held events in New Zealand, USA, Japan, Spain and most recently in Kitzbühel, Austria. The multi-continent triathlon series is a major landmark for on-site spectators but also TV sport fans – with all events broadcast in over 160 countries.

!NEW! Opel/Vauxhall to produce Mokka SUV in Spain’s Zaragoza plant in 2014

High global demand for small SUV creates additional capacity opportunities 

Good Decision: Opel CEO Dr Karl-Thomas Neumann announces that the Mokka production is coming to Europe

Production of the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka is coming to Europe. GM’s plant in Zaragoza (Spain) will start producing the successful small SUV in the second half of 2014. GM and Opel/Vauxhall leadership made this joint decision because of the high demand for the vehicle in Europe. At the same time, additional capacity for small SUV’s will be created at the plant in Bupyeong (Korea) that has been the unique source of production so far.

Meeting in Zaragoza: Opel CEO Dr Karl-Thomas Neumann shaking hands with Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy

Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann said: “The decision for Zaragoza follows our company's strategy of building vehicles where we sell them. The enormous demand for the Mokka underlines the attractiveness of our vehicles, adds momentum to our product offensive and secures jobs in Europe. The decision will help address the underutilization of available production capacity in Europe and therefore is good news for the entire organization.”

Chairman of the European Employee Forum (EEF) Dr. Wolfgang Schäfer-Klug stated: “It is not only great news for Zaragoza but for all plants in view of the improved overall capacity utilization. Opel/Vauxhall management has now fulfilled a long-standing request from the EEF to produce our small SUV in Europe. This is really a win-win situation for everybody in Opel/Vauxhall.”

In the initial phase, US$ 80 million will be invested in Zaragoza for production. The decision to produce the Mokka in Europe is helping to safeguard 5,800 jobs in Opel’s Spanish plant, which is currently producing the Corsa and Meriva.

Since the launch of the Opel/Vauxhall Mokka in the summer of 2012, the vehicle has been a success. Not only is the stylish SUV popular with experts, but customers as well. The Mokka is among the three best-selling SUVs in several European markets.

While the initial European production will be based on CKD-kits (CKD = Completely Knocked Down), with parts coming from Korea, localization will gradually increase.

“This is another great day for Opel/Vauxhall,” continued Neumann. “After the recent decision of GM to invest 4 billion Euros in its European operations and an additional commitment to invest 230 million Euros in the Development Center in Ruesselsheim, Germany, this is further proof that we are on the right path.”

The biggest winners are Opel/Vauxhall customers and employees in Europe, added Neumann: “With this investment, we will be able to produce more Mokkas and to more quickly serve our customers.”

!NEW! Opel Underlines Commitment in Growth Market Israel

Early contract renewal to 2020 with Shlomo Group 

Successful duo: Shlomo Shmeltzer (on left) and Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann after signing the new contract

Opel and the leading automobile importer in Israel, the Shlomo Group, have extended their collaboration. Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, CEO of Adam Opel AG, and Shlomo Shmeltzer, Managing Director of the Shlomo Group, today met at Opel headquarters in Rüsselsheim and signed the new contract extending the companies’ collaboration until 2020. With this, Opel strengthens its presence in Israel, an important export market for the brand.

Fabulous four: Asi and Shlomo Shmeltzer with Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann and Jürgen Keller, Director International Operations (from left)

“We have been on the right track in Israel since beginning this cooperation two years ago. We are very pleased that with the Shlomo Group we have one of the strongest Israeli companies as a sales associate and reliable partner. By renewing our contract early, we not only reinforce this cooperation, but also our brand in Israel,” said Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

 Shlomo Shmeltzer (on left) and Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann  in front of the Opel’s headquarters at Rüsselsheim

The Shlomo Group is the leading automotive and largest car rental group in Israel. The company has been importing and selling Opel vehicles and spare parts on the Israeli market since the spring of 2011. Last year around 4,600 Opel cars were sold, and in 2013 sales are to exceed 5,000 vehicles. 

!NEW! Opel Monza Concept: Vision of Opel’s Future

Ground-breaking concept: Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann reveals first glimpse of IAA study

Next generation of Opel design philosophy: Evolution of sculptural styling

New athleticism: Maximum efficiency of vehicle architecture, powertrain and materials

Modern: Innovative connectivity solutions for individual mobility

Pioneering: Visionary IAA studies from Opel since Experimental GT in 1965

Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann and new Opel Monza Concept

After more than 150 years of company history packed with strong innovations, Opel now introduces its newest highlight – at least partially. The ground-breaking Opel Monza Concept will make its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show from September 12 – 22 (Press Days September 10 and 11), but today Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann gives a first glimpse of this exciting study. “DRIVE!2022 is a clear strategy for the future of Opel as a company and a brand,” says Dr. Neumann. “It covers a whole range of subject areas and elements, and in terms of the future of our models, we’ve bundled all our targets together in the Opel Monza Concept. It is our vision of Opel’s future and stands for our fundamental values: German engineering and precision, combined with enthralling design and innovations suitable for everyday use. The Monza Concept carries these elements forward in a visionary fashion, expressing them with fresh inspiration and clarity. This car is a study that will have a long-term impact on the next generation of Opel models.”

Monza Concept: Beginning the next generation of Opel mobility

The Monza Concept shows what Opel customers can expect to see in the future. It focuses on two major themes which will be top priorities for the more than 6,000 engineers, technicians and designers in Rüsselsheim developing the next generation of Opel models: efficiency and connectivity. The Monza Concept demonstrates outstanding efficiency through its architecture and use of materials, as well as in its aerodynamics and ground-breaking powertrain solution. In terms of connectivity, it offers trailblazing possibilities that are a quantum leap in the development of infotainment systems.

The Monza Concept is a recognizable further development of Opel’s design language.. To visibly express Opel’s quest for increased efficiency, the study presents an evolution of Opel’s design philosophy of sculptural artistry and German precision, with body contours conveying a sense of lithe athleticism rather than pure muscle power.

This design emphasis is immediately apparent in the vehicle’s frontal styling. A low stance with flowing lines, the clearly defined hood and a striking headlamp treatment all combine to give the car an extra dose of assertive self-confidence. Further developed signature Opel themes are embedded in the overall look: the typical crease on the hood appears more three-dimensional and thus more prominent, while the chrome grille bar carrying the Opel logo now sweeps up with winglets at its tips. Two characteristic blades under the head lamps add to the sporty appeal. Overall, the Monza Concept has a light, athletic look designed to convey efficiency, excitement and great driving fun.

The sporty appeal of Opel models has always been inseparably linked to functionality and, in this respect, the Monza Concept pays homage to the seminal Opel Monza Coupé, built between 1978 and 1986. It also combined elegant, dynamic styling with clever, functional solutions for drivers and passengers. Similarities between the two cars are visible in design elements such as their large, glazed surfaces and low belt-line.

Opel Monza (1978)

The original Monza was the first car on the market to feature a digital dashboard display and the Monza Concept continues this innovative theme. It introduces ground-breaking technologies for future infotainment and connectivity possibilities, showing how next-generation Opel cars will address the needs of a closely connected and sharing society. They will enable future individual mobility that’s more than simply a driving experience alone.

Opel Monza (1986)

Opel Experimental GT: Start of visionary IAA studies

The trendsetting Monza Concept is the latest in a line of visionary IAA studies from Opel which began in 1965 with the spectacular Opel Experimental GT. At that time, Opel was the first automaker to build a concept study in Europe and present it at an automotive trade show – with overwhelming success. The Experimental GT created enthusiasm among the media and public alike, and was the starting point for ongoing presentations of concept cars to showcase innovative ideas and future developments for the brand portfolio. Opel studies in the 1960s were so successful that all European competitors subsequently began developing and presenting their own concepts.

“With the Opel Monza Concept, we make our automotive future tangible today,” says Opel CEO Neumann. And fueling curiosity about Rüsselsheim’s newest study ahead of its world premiere, he adds: “I can’t yet go into detail about how the Monza Concept’s interior design, and especially its trend-setting technologies, will change the driving experience. However, I can guarantee that viewed from any angle, its innovative body design and perfect proportions will turn heads. But they are just a visible expression of the great substance you will find under the bodywork. Everyone should visit us at the Opel stand at the IAA to get a look at Opel’s exciting future!”

!NEW! Opel Insignia Country Tourer: Ready for Adventure

• Top-of-the-line Sports Tourer with SUV character: Higher ground clearance and distinct protective body elements
• All-round grip: Advanced Opel all-wheel drive with variable torque delivery
• Strong pulling power: Three powerful turbo engines with up to 400 Nm torque
• Athletic appeal: Wide chrome grille and dual exhaust convey inherent power

          New Opel Insignia Country Tourer 4x4                 

The new Insignia family will soon be completed when the Opel Insignia Country Tourer makes its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. While its Sports Tourer sibling is an elegant family and business station wagon, the new Insignia Country Tourer expresses an innate desire for adventure. The athletic all-rounder, with its higher ground clearance, provides freedom beyond the constraints of city limits and asphalt roads. Defining features include protective under-body guards front and rear, combined with prominent wheel-arch and lower body cladding, all complemented by dual exhaust tailpipes. State-of-the-art all-wheel drive ensures grip and sure-footed handling in all driving conditions. It is teamed with powerful turbo engines such as a 184 kW/250 hp, 2.0-liter SIDI direct injection gasoline unit or a high-performance 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI – both generating impressive maximum torque of 400 Nm.

“The sensational success of our young Opel Mokka in the sub-compact SUV segment has demonstrated the popularity of vehicles with a crossover character,” says Duncan Aldred, Opel’s Acting Vice President Sales, Marketing and Aftersales. “With the new Insignia Country Tourer, we are now filling this sporty niche in the larger, mid-size class. It enables us to offer customers an alternative choice they’ve never had before at Opel. They can spice up the high quality of our brand flagship with a strong dose of adventure. At the same time, we’re confident the athletic appeal of the Insignia Country Tourer will also attract new customers to our brand.”

Opel’s all-wheel drive: Top-class technology in the mid-size segment

The electronically controlled 4x4 drivetrain incorporates a high-quality clutch, operating on Haldex principles, and an electronic limited-slip differential to ensure superb traction on both paved and unpaved surfaces. It constantly adapts to prevailing road conditions and varies torque distribution seamlessly from zero to 100 percent between the front and rear axles, as well as between the rear wheels. The main benefit is that all this happens even before a wheel starts to slip due to lack of traction, for example on wet or snow-covered roads. In combination with the electronically controlled FlexRide premium chassis, the all-wheel drive system sets standards in terms of reaction time and vehicle control.

When necessary, the clutch controlling drive distribution immediately sends more torque to the rear axle. The 4x4 system’s sensors constantly feed individual control modules with information on yaw rate, acceleration, steering angle, wheel speed, gas pedal position, engine speed and torque, and the front/rear power distribution is constantly adapted to the driving situation based on this information.

Ultimate stability and higher dynamics are ensured by the electronically-controlled rear-axle Limited Slip Differential (eLSD). The eLSD controls the distribution of torque between the rear wheels, transferring drive torque to the wheel that has the most grip. While offering better traction in slippery conditions, the sophisticated operation of this adaptive 4x4 drive system guarantees the highest levels of driver control and active safety in all situations. The Insignia Country Tourer can even provide propulsion when three wheels are on loose or slippery ground and only one rear wheel has traction.

The adaptive all-wheel system also supports drivers in non-critical situations. To reduce frictional losses and save fuel, the system automatically reverts to front-wheel drive whenever it senses that no adaptive interventions are required.

Turbo engine line-up: High torque on demand

Strong Opel turbo engine power is a perfect match for the Country Tourer’s state-of-the-art 4x4 drivetrain. The choice of three engines is led by a 184 kW/250 hp 2.0 SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) Turbo gasoline engine, delivering excellent performance. Generating an impressive 400 Nm of torque, this direct injection engine guarantees massive levels of traction.

The high-performance 143 kW/195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI diesel also packs 400 Nm of pulling power. Its sequential, two-phase turbocharger delivers an immediate throttle response for excellent traction. A 120 kW/163 hp, 2.0 CDTI (with single tailpipe) completes the engine line-up, giving access to 350 Nm of torque, which is raised briefly to 380 Nm on overboost.

Both the 2.0 SIDI Turbo and the 2.0 CDTI can be mated to a six-speed manual gearbox or a six-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI is available only with the latter. 

Off asphalt, the new Insignia Country Tourer also benefits from larger tires and a raised ride height, in addition to its four-wheel drive traction and lively responses. Ground clearance is 20 mm higher than standard, a major advantage when encountering loose, uneven terrain. So whether it’s used for a winter holiday on snowy roads, or simply when the going gets tough, the Insignia Country Tourer makes an ideal companion to easily handle unpaved roads and hilly terrain during work or leisure time. And in the city, its rugged looks also give it a strong stand-out appeal.

Well-toned: Athletic top station wagon with SUV character

The purposeful character of the new Insignia Country Tourer clearly signals its strong desire for freedom. With a signature Opel grille, now wider and deeper, the frontal styling has a distinct appeal. The grille’s horizontal chrome bar carries the central brand emblem and is sculpted in a wing form, with its outer tips turned upwards like winglets alongside the headlamps. A protective panel, in a gleaming silver finish, sweeps out from under the engine compartment; a prominent design theme echoed at the rear, where the paneling is framed by two gleaming exhaust tailpipes – all elements that simultaneously communicate a sense of power and protection.

Another characteristic feature is the anthracite-colored protective cladding on the side sills and lower body sections, which also gives the wheel-arches a more pronounced, flared look. The Insignia Country Tourer’s robust appearance gives it an assertive, self-confident persona. A final visual flourish is provided by distinctive front and rear light units. The tinted headlamps, with embedded chrome accents, exude high-quality and incorporate wing-style LED daytime running lights (depending on trim version). The graphic design theme is repeated at the rear, where LED brake and taillights also illuminate brightly. With its unique design features, the new Insignia Country Tourer successfully combines its roles as sporty adventurer and prestigious brand flagship.

Prices and equipment details will be announced on the start date for orders – at the world premiere on September 10 at the IAA in Frankfurt.

!NEW! GM, Honda to Collaborate on Next-Generation Fuel Cell Technologies

Goal is commercially feasible fuel cell and hydrogen storage in 2020 time frame

General Motors (GM) and Honda announced today a long-term, definitive master agreement to co-develop next-generation fuel cell system and hydrogen storage technologies, aiming for the 2020 time frame. The collaboration expects to succeed by sharing expertise, economies of scale and common sourcing strategies.

GM and Honda plan to work together with stakeholders to further advance refueling infrastructure, which is critical for the long-term viability and consumer acceptance of fuel cell vehicles.

GM and Honda are acknowledged leaders in fuel cell technology. According to the Clean Energy Patent Growth Index, GM and Honda rank No. 1 and No. 2, respectively, in total fuel cell patents filed between 2002 and 2012, with more than 1,200 between them.

“This collaboration builds upon Honda and GM’s strengths as leaders in hydrogen fuel cell technology,” said Dan Akerson, GM chairman and CEO. “We are convinced this is the best way to develop this important technology, which has the potential to help reduce the dependence on petroleum and establish sustainable mobility.”

Takanobu Ito, president & CEO of Honda Motor Co. Ltd. said: “Among all zero CO₂ emission technologies, fuel cell electric vehicles have a definitive advantage with range and refueling time that is as good as conventional gasoline cars. Honda and GM are eager to accelerate the market penetration of this ultimate clean mobility technology, and I am excited to form this collaboration to fuse our leading fuel cell technologies and create an advanced system that will be both more capable and more affordable.”

GM’s Project Driveway program, launched in 2007, has accumulated nearly 3 million miles of real-world driving in a fleet of 119 hydrogen-powered vehicles, more than any other automaker.

Honda began leasing of the Honda FCX in 2002 and has deployed 85 units in the U.S. and Japan, including its successor, the FCX Clarity, which was named the 2009 World Green Car. Honda has delivered these vehicles to the hands of customers in the U.S. and collected valuable data concerning real-world use of fuel cell electric vehicles.

As already announced, Honda plans to launch the successor of FCX Clarity in Japan and the United States in 2015, and then in Europe. GM will announce its fuel cell production plans at a later date.

Fuel cell technology addresses many of the major challenges facing automobiles today – petroleum dependency, emissions, efficiency, range and refueling times. Fuel cell vehicles can operate on renewable hydrogen made from sources like wind and biomass. The only emission from fuel cell vehicles is water vapor. 

Additionally, fuel cell vehicles can have up to 400 miles driving range, can be refueled in as little as three minutes, and the propulsion technology can be used on small, medium, and large vehicles.

!NEW! The Infotainment systems of the new Opel Insignia

Clearly arranged cockpit with new Infotainment generation in the new Opel Insignia

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.

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.

The new infotainment generation in the 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.

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.

Additionally, the 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.

Intensifying the Human-and-Machine-Interface (HMI) connection is the newly designed 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.

!NEW! Generation Power 2013: Class Leading 1.6 Turbo for Opel Astra, Zafira Tourer and Cascada

• Powertrain offensive: Three new engine families and 13 new engines by 2016
• Phase one: Downsizing with 1.6-liter turbo petrol and diesel, improved transmission
• Best in class Torque: 1.6 turbo gasoline direct injection engine with 280 Nm
• Strong power: 100 kW/136 hp 1.6 CDTI with class leading  liter performance
• Efficiency Plus: Reduced fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 15 percent
• Increased comfort: Five-and six-speed manual gearbox, the new generation

Opel Astra family, Zafira Tourer MPV and Cascada convertible

The Opel Astra family, the Zafira Tourer MPV and the midsize class convertible Cascada are the first models, the first ancestor with the new engines and transmissions of the great offensive drive from Opel. By 2016, the automaker replaced 80 percent of its total power portfolio. With three all-new engine family - consisting of 13 different units - and keep gearboxes many new cutting-edge technology and class-leading performance levels in a wide range of Opel models collection.

We start with the new 1.6-liter turbo engines, the first copies of a completely new generation of medium-sized petrol and diesel engines. The downsizing engines exactly fit the requirements of the customers: they are characterized by high performance and strong traction at reduced fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions. How to reach a power density as well as a level of comfort and balance that catapult them to the top of their class.

New petrol engine 1.6 SIDI Turbo ECOTEC in Opel Astra

The new 125 kW/170 hp 1.6 Turbo SIDI (SIDI = Spark Ignition Direct Injection) provides a torque of 280 Newton meters - twelve percent more than its nearest competitor. The turbo gasoline direct-injection engine is already available for Astra (GTC, five-door hatchback, saloon and Sports Tourer), Zafira Tourer and the new convertible Cascada. The new 1.6 CDTI, the first all-aluminum diesel engine from Opel, shines with unmatched in this displacement class output per liter of 85 hp. The 100 kW/136 hp engine starts in the current Zafira Tourer, successively followed by other Opel models. Both engines are combined with the next generation of manual gearbox that qualify in particular in terms of shift comfort ahead of the competition.

Top class: The all-new 1.6 SIDI Turbo petrol engine 

The all-new four-cylinder turbo petrol engine with direct injection starts first with an output of 125 kW/170 hp. It offers an exceptional torque of up to 280 Newton meters at low engine speed range from 1,650 min-1 and is designed to model elasticity and excellent driving comfort, particularly low fuel consumption and low CO2 emissions.

Compared to the same great predecessors fuel thirst and CO2 emissions in the combined cycle were reduced by up to 15 percent and torque are both increased by 22 percent. The Result: The engine puts power in the class of compact cars of 150 to 180 hp the bar higher: It provides twelve percent more torque than the nearest competitor - Models German premium manufacturer included.

Crucial for the impressive performance, the introduction of direct injection for improved combustion, spontaneously responding turbochargers for heavy pulling even at low engine speeds, as well as numerous sound-engineering measures that favor a particularly calm and balanced handling.

New Opel Astra 1.6 SIDI Turbo with 125 kW / 170 hp

The best example of the enormous torque of the new 1.6 SIDI Turbo Astra five-door hatchback and sedan sprint in just 8.8 seconds in fifth gear from 80 to 120 km / h - a whopping almost two seconds faster than the 1.6-liter predecessors. Equipped with Start / Stop and six-speed manual require both Astra variants in the combined cycle (according to Regulation [EC] No. 715/2007) only 5.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, which corresponds to 139 grams of CO2 per kilometer - an improvement 14 percent. And the Astra GTC is rotating at a reduction of 15 per cent once more on the efficiency screw.

Top class: The all-new 1.6 CDTI turbo diesel

The first all-aluminum diesel engine of Opel Zafira Tourer celebrates premiere. By and by the new 1.6 CDTI engines then replaced with the current 1.7 liter engine capacity and weaker two-liter turbo diesel in most model ranges, as follows additional power levels. In his first version of the 100 kW/136 bhp engine offers powerful 320 Nm of torque - and an unmatched in this class, power of 85 hp per liter of displacement.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV 1.6 CDTI

Compared to also available in the Opel Zafira Tourer two-liter turbo diesel with similar performance drop fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by ten percent lower. Thus, the new engine 1.6 CDTI in the combined cycle just 4.1 liters per 100 kilometers and emits 109 grams of CO2 per kilometer. Opel engineers assume that consumption levels of less than 4.0 l/100 km and CO2 emissions / km, and below are possible with this engine in smaller vehicles to 100 g. In terms of pollutant emissions, the new 1.6 CDTI (selective catalytic reduction) is as clean as a gasoline thanks to Blue Injection SCR system - it already meets the future Euro 6 emission standard, which comes into force in September 2015.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV 1.6 CDTI - Fuel and AdBlue cap

Like its gasoline counterpart, the 1.6 CDTI also benefits from numerous sound-engineering measures to minimize noise, vibration and harshness. In the Zafira Tourer, the motor against other vehicles with a 1.6-liter turbo diesel to the slightest noise level in the interior.

New turbo diesel engine 1.6 CDTI in Opel Zafira Tourer MPV 

The high-pressure common-rail system, together with the closed-loop combustion control and the VTG turbocharger (Variable Turbine Geometry), which enables a strong response, the technical core components of the engine dar. These and many functions be demanding of the highest motor control of the new 1.6 CDTI regulated. The internally developed unit comes in all future four-cylinder diesel engines are used.

Best in Class Switching Comfort: The manual of the next generation

To optimize the current five-and six-speed gearbox Opel has invested more than 50 million euros into the European production. When it comes to fast, smooth gear changes, the gear play developed as compared to the competition in the top league.

Numerous changes to the gear shift components and mechanisms as well as the integration in the vehicle are designed to greatly reduce the switching paths and minimum force required for shifting. For the driver this means a decisive advantage to switching convenience and immediate feedback - the shift knob "snaps" into place easily, with a minimum of effort.

In addition, a particularly low-friction six-speed automatic is available. It has an Active Select function for manual gear selection and makes for a more direct feel.