!NEW! Opel Antara SUV Achieves Best Fuel Economy of 6.5 L/100 km during GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge

Opel Antara SUV - Test Drive

The Opel Antara SUV made its first appearance in the 2013 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge, which visited Shenyang on October 26. The 10 front-wheel-drive Antara owners who participated averaged fuel consumption of 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers over 104 kilometers. The winning driver, Mr. Wang Shoulian, had fuel economy of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers.

Participants drove their Antaras on urban expressways, along rural roads and at the Qipanshan off-road test-drive venue. This complex route seriously tested the fuel efficiency, performance and overall capability of the Antara.

Opel Antara SUV - Off-road Test Drive

"I was originally attracted to the Antara by its dynamic appearance, refined interior and excellent handling,” said Mr. Wang Shoulian. “It also provides excellent safety, even on Shenyang’s snow-covered roads. The Antara’s outstanding fuel economy for an SUV is a real bonus that is enabling me to explore the city limits and beyond.”

Opel Antara SUV - Track Experience

The imported Antara is Opel’s best-selling model in China. It has a sporty exterior with chrome accents as well as a roomy interior that makes it ideal for business and family use. It also comes with a range of advanced safety features such as an upgraded ABS system and Hill Start Assist (HSA). Its electronically controlled All-Wheel-Drive (AWD system combines the advantages of Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), such as low fuel consumption, with the traction benefits of all-wheel drive. While the engine normally powers the front wheels, the system seamlessly redistributes power to both front and rear axles if inadequate traction is detected.

Opel Antara SUV - Consumers Group Photo

The annual GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge began in 2011. It was created to demonstrate how GM is addressing demand for high fuel efficiency through the products it builds and sells across China. The 2013 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge Series kicked off on June 15 in Kunming. Shenyang was the fourth of six stops. Under the theme of “Drive Smarter, Drive Further,” this year’s activity is showcasing the fuel economy of products from the Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun and Opel brands. More information can be found on the Official Event Site and the 2013 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge Weibo App.

General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 58,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China. It has been the sales leader among global automakers in the market for eight consecutive years.