!NEW! Opel Brings Three New Models to China

New Opel range in China

Opel unveiled its new brand positioning in China this evening as it introduced three new models during Opel Brand Night at the Beijing Olympic Exhibition Hall SAVOR Center. Opel will begin offering the Insignia Sports Tourer (ST) station wagon, Zafira Tourer MPV and Astra GTC coupe in China later this year.

On photo from left: Opal Liu, Product Planning Manager, GM China Opel Operations; Chin Lim Ong, Director, Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing, GM China; Cynthia Chen, Director, GM China Opel Operations

“Opel is pleased to show the people of China the humanity, spirit, vitality and environmental responsibility of GM’s German brand,” said Chen Wenxin, Director of GM China Opel Operations. “By expanding our product offerings, Opel aims to provide a wider range of driving choices to help local consumers enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.”

New Zafira Tourer MPV, Insignia ST and Astra GTC on OPEL Brand Night

The new models represent three of the most popular types of vehicles in China: station wagon, MPV and coupes. They complement the mid-range Opel SUV, the Antara, which is currently sold in China. The price of the Insignia ST will be announced next month at Auto Shanghai 2013 and the model will go on sale at all major Opel dealerships across China shortly thereafter. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC will go on sale in the second half of 2013 with pricing to be announced closer to sale.

China’s growing younger generation tends to seek out distinctive and fresh products to enrich their lifestyles and set them apart. They demand high-quality details and stylish character in the things they buy. Opel products are well suited to meet the demands of these younger consumers, due to their German engineering, innovative brand spirit and the company’s environmental consciousness.

Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (ST)

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (ST) station wagon has exciting styling and powerful performance that turns heads whether zipping through city streets or cruising in the countryside. Its interior is characterized by a practical spacious design and cutting-edge technology.

The Insignia ST is aerodynamic, yet its full-bodied extended-wheel design makes it nearly twice the size of a coupe and gives it a very powerful look. The contours along the sides of the car give it a sculpted appearance. A three-dimensional center line design runs from the front to the back, mirroring classic Opel styling cues. The Insignia ST has a large dramatic cabin, supple leather seats and nickel-titanium finishes wrapped in soft materials, all which reflect its sporty spirit. 

The ECOTEC 2.0 liter turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engine in the Insignia ST has the best power per liter performance in its class at 81 kW/L. Its maximum power is 162 kW, while its peak torque is 350 Nm, and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.1 seconds. Its six-speed automatic transmission is the perfect partner for the engine. While guaranteeing smooth and accurate shifting with low noise, it also effectively lowers fuel consumption for overall fuel efficiency of 9.6 liters per 100 km.

The smart FlexRide system significantly enhances performance and control. The driver can switch between the three driving modes of "normal," "sport" and "tour" according to the driving experience desired. The Insignia ST can also handle a variety of road surfaces thanks to its adaptive 4X4 system.

The Insignia ST has the most advanced extra-long wheelbase in its class. Its reconfigurable interior space, storage areas and luggage rack provide a range of options for taking trips and transporting cargo. Many convenient functions are provided as well, such as a wide-view electric sunroof, ergonomic seats, a smart parking guidance system and Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) Bi-Xenon headlamps.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

Combining a modern design with the interior space of an MPV, the Opel Zafira Tourer has a dynamic look, responsive handling and advanced technologies to meet the varying demands of driving enthusiasts as well as those looking for an ideal family vehicle.

The distinctive front end is defined by bold “boomerang” graphics in the lighting units that sweep from the headlights to the fog lamps. Together with the iconic Opel center crease on the hood and strong trapezoidal grille, this creates a dynamic, progressive look that is unexpected for a vehicle in this segment. The panoramic windshield seamlessly flows into a generous wide-view glass sunroof, creating a bright and airy atmosphere for occupants.

Another distinctive feature of the Opel Zafira Tourer is the Flex7 seating system. It provides first-class comfort and the unique feeling of travelling in a “lounge on wheels” by maximizing interior space and ergonomics. The cargo volume is 1,860 liters with all seats folded down, making the Zafira Tourer ideal for a business trip or extended vacation.

The Zafira Tourer also has more than 30 storage compartments, including the multi-functional FlexRail center console. The console comes with a large storage box as well as cupholders that slide on aluminum rails to the desired position, enabling flexible use of the generous storage space between the front seats.

Opel Astra GTC Coupe

The Opel Astra GTC is a sporty compact coupe with a striking design, dynamic performance, and attention to details that make driving pleasurable.

The most prominent feature of the Astra GTC’s appearance is its large panoramic windshield. It melts into the A-pillar and extends seamlessly from the hood to the roof back to the B-pillar. With no cross-member to spoil the view, it offers the driver and passengers a unique experience and a completely new sense of space and visibility with an almost unlimited field of vision, similar to the view from a jet’s cockpit.

The HiPerStrut front suspension system reduces the amount of camber change on the Astra GTC’s front wheels during cornering, improving grip and reducing torque steer. Steering feel is enhanced through a reduction in the steering system’s friction levels. The result is improved handling and more direct steering response, which sports car drivers prefer.

Designers paid great attention to the interior design details and finishes. The Astra GTC’s cockpit combines sculptured shapes and dynamic lines. Its distinct sporty character is enhanced by new, high-quality fabrics, fresh colors and materials on both trim levels. In addition, its multi-functional steering wheel, storage box at the left side beneath the wheel, adjustable armrest and center console give it daily-use functionality.

Opel Astra GTC offers comfortable seating for five adults with a flexible luggage compartment. Front seats offer the widest range of adjustments available in the segment and are ergonomically enhanced with eight-way adjustments.  The vehicle’s optional four-way lumbar and upper leg extension adjustments are certified by the independent back health experts from AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken - Action for Healthy Backs).

Opel Antara SUV

The Opel Antara has been offered in China since 2008.  This mid-range SUV features a unique exterior design, dynamic power and a functional interior that showcase its crossover features.

The Antara inherits Opel’s sporty DNA plus an off-road capability. It has a 2,707-mm wheelbase and a width of 1,850 mm, ensuring a roomy ride. It also has more than 20 storage spaces and flexible seats that can be folded down at a 60:40 ratio to maximize interior space for both the driver and passengers. 

The Antara is powered by a 2.4 liter ECOTEC aluminum four-cylinder D-VVT engine with dual-overhead camshafts and 16 valves. The gasoline engine delivers 123 kW/167 horsepower and 230 Nm/4,600 rpm for sustainable power. It also comes with an Active Select^® six-speed automatic transmission and the ITCC adaptive 4X4 system. As a result, the Antara has exceptional power, handling and relatively low fuel consumption. In addition, Opel has improved the Antara’s safety performance with the addition of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and the Descent Control System (DCS).

!NEW! 2014 Buick Regal Infused with New Technology

• Exterior design with signature wing shape LED lighting; revised interior designed around next-gen IntelliLink infotainment and new advanced safety features
• More efficient and more refined  2.0L turbo engine delivers 18 percent  more power in Regal Turbo
• New all-wheel drive system incorporates electronic limited-slip differential to help optimize traction in all driving conditions

2014 Buick Regal Turbo with Graphite Blue Metallic exterior color and 18-inch chrome wheels

Buick revealed the new 2014 Regal today, designed to be a sportier and smarter evolution of the brand’s dynamic midsize sedan. New purposeful technologies enhance safety and the driving experience with a more refined turbo engine – along with the introduction of all-wheel drive.

Side Blind Zone Alert - Alerts a driver when another vehicle is detected in a blind zone

Lane Change Alert - An icon in the side mirror notifies driver when a vehicle is detected

The new Regal also introduces new radar- and camera-based safety features – including Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Lane Change Alert, Side Blind Zone Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Alert and Collision Mitigation Braking – for surround protection. 

Forward Collision Alert - Cautions of a slow moving vehicle ahead

In-vehicle connectivity is enhanced with next-generation IntelliLink, featuring simpler, more intuitive controls and natural speech recognition.

2014 Buick Regal interior with Saddle seating, cocoa accents, offered with two-tone Soleil Keisel leather seats and Rhythm wood decor

Adaptive Cruise Control is also offered. It senses traffic in front of the Regal to adjust vehicle speed, including stopping the vehicle in heavy traffic and accelerating again.

“The new 2014 Regal is more expressive, more connected and more technologically advanced,” said Tony DiSalle, U.S. vice president of Buick Marketing. “ Nearly half of new Regal buyers are conquests who are new to Buick and they represent the youngest median age among the brand’s lineup.

“The new Regal gives those discerning buyers more of the technologically advanced features they want in a modern luxury sedan, all with the style and refinement they expect from Buick.”

New front and rear styling, with bold, signature wing shape LED daytime running lamps and LED taillamps were designed to give Regal a more contemporary and premium presence. The interior features a redesigned central instrument panel and console along with a new fashion interior trim combination.

2014 Buick Regal GS Ebony interior with next-generation IntelliLink infotainment system

The new 2.0L turbo engine delivers 18 percent more horsepower in the Regal Turbo, for a greater feeling of on demand power The available Haldex all-wheel drive system helps make the most of traction in all driving conditions and also enhances the cornering capability of the Regal GS when driven in the GS mode of the Interactive Drive Control System.

2014 Buick Regal GS with Copper Red Metallic exterior color and 20-inch Alloy polished wheels

2014 Buick Regal GS Ebony interior with Soleil Keisel leather seats, contrast stitching and Diamo black decor.

A 2.4L engine with eAssist light electrification technology is also available on the 2014 Regal. Six-speed automatic transmissions are matched with both engines and a six-speed manual is available in the Regal GS. Electric power steering is now featured on all models.

2014 Buick Regal GS Ebony interior, Front Collision Alert displayed in the 8-inch instrument panel (IP).

2014 Buick Regal GS Interactive Drive Control System and Lane Departure Warning, buttons.

The new Regal makes its public debut at the New York International Auto Show, where it will be on display March 29-April 7. It goes on sale this fall.

Downloads: 2014 Buick Regal Brochure

!NEW! Let the Sun Shine in – the Story of Opel Convertibles

From Kapitän to Cascada – Opel at the Techno Classica

Opel Kapitän convertible (1938)

Opel Cascada convertible (2013)

With thirteen cars spanning more than 100 years of car manufacturing, Opel exhibits a selection of its most popular convertibles at this year’s Techno Classica (April 10-14, 2013) in Essen, Germany. The display includes the first Opel Patent Motor Car, System Lutzmann of 1899, the 10/18 Doppelphaeton with its ’American top‘, the Rekord A Cabrio from the company Deutsch, the Monza Keinath C5, and the current Opel Cascada presented at this year’s Geneva Motor Show.

Opel Monza KC 5 convertible (1985)

The elegant Cascada extends a tradition for premium convertibles, like the famous Opel Kapitän presented 75 years ago which was offered as a two and four-door sedan and convertible at its debut in 1938. At Opel’s stand in Essen, the Cascada and Kapitän convertibles will be flanked by conversions from renowned coachbuilders who constructed dream cabrios based on Opel cars well into the 1980s.

Using the stately Opel Admiral of 1937 as a basis, the Hebmüller Karosserie company in Wülfrath created a luxurious, two-seat sports cabrio, and Gläser of Dresden took a similar approach with the Opel Super 6 in 1936. Coachbuilder Deutsch from Cologne converted the four-seat Rekord C in the late 1960s, and Keinath in Dettingen crafted an attractive cabrio from the sporty Monza coupé.

Opel’s Essen display also includes: an Opel 6/12 hp from 1910, the successor to the legendary 4/12 hp Doctor’s Car, an ultra-chic 1.1-liter luxury two-seater; a sporty 1.8-liter Moonlight Roadster from 1933 and an Olympia cabrio sedan from 1950. All are part of Opel’s Classic collection in Rüsselsheim.

As in previous years, presents the traditional division of Adam Opel AG during the 25th Techno Classica worldwide on more than 700 square meter stand in Hall 2, together with the Vintage Opel IG, the largest Opel brand club.

The beginning was open

The very first Opel was, in fact, a cabrio. Like all cars built at the dawn of the automobile age, the Opel Patent Motor Car, System Lutzmann from 1899 followed traditional carriage design principles and had a body without an integral roof. By the time production ended in 1901, 65 Patent Motor Cars had left the Rüsselsheim factory.

The Opel 10/18 hp from 1908 and the 10/24 hp from 1911 also came without a top – a roof and side panels were available at extra cost.

Opel 10/24 hp Torpedo Double Phaeton (1911)

While an open body was still standard as late as the 1920s, closed bodies followed in the 1930s and open-air driving then became a symbol of luxury and status.

Vehicles from Rüsselsheim inspired famous coachbuilders to create their own beauties using Opel models as a starting point. The Deutsch company from Cologne-Braunsfeld built 51 units of their sporty Moonlight Roadster. The basis for this racy two-seater was the 1.8 liter model line presented in 1931, with which Opel became the first volume manufacturer to introduce an affordable straight-six engine in the mid-size class.

Opel Moonlight roadster (1933)

To celebrate the company’s 75^th anniversary, Adam Opel AG presented two novel vehicles with trend-setting design on February 17, 1937: the Super 6 and the premium class Admiral model. Both cars were equipped with advanced overhead valve engine technology. The Super 6, for the upper mid-size class, featured a smooth-running 2.5-liter straight-six with 55 hp, and the premium class Admiral had a powerful six-cylinder with 3.6-liter displacement and 75 hp. Both models were offered ex-works as a sedan, as well as a two-door, and in the Admiral’s case, also as a four-door cabrio.

Opel Super 6 convertible (1936)

In addition to coachbuilders Buhne (Berlin), Autenrieth (Darmstadt) and Hebmüller (Wülfrath), Gläser from Dresden built special bodies based on the Super 6. The Gläser cabrio was a roadster-like convertible with two jump seats in the long rear body. Based on the Admiral, the sport cabrio from Hebmüller featured similar elegant, but even larger, design and was more luxurious and exclusive.

Opel Admiral convertible (1937)

Another cabrio for more discerning tastes is the Kapitän convertible presented in 1937, which was available in addition to the sedan. The first Opel Kapitän – whose successors were among the best-selling six-cylinder cars in Germany into the early 1960s – achieved sales of 25,374 units, 4,563 of which were cabrios. The Super 6, Admiral and Kapitän were, for the time being, the last cabrios offered by the company.

Opel Kapitän convertible (1939)

The diversity of open-top driving was then reduced to one model. Unlike a full cabrio, the Opel Olympia cabrio sedan had fixed window frames connected to the windshield – a pre-war style of open-top driving that was well-established with manufacturers and popular with buyers. In 1956, the last car with this design, in the shape of the Olympia Rekord model line, rolled off the assembly line. The role of a popular compact cabrio was then assumed by various versions of the Kadett and Astra.

Predecessors of the new four-seat Cascada include creations from Karl Deutsch in Cologne. The coachbuilder converted the Rekord A of 1963 into a cabrio, as it did with the Rekord C in 1966 and its sporty sister model the Commodore A. The entry-level price for a two-door Rekord C base car was 7,590 German marks, and the conversion cost another 4,000 marks. Only around 30 open-air Rekord A and B models were built, while about 50 Rekord C and Commodore A cabrios were produced before the model change in 1972.

Opel Rekord C convertible (1967)

Instead of a mid-size class sedan, Opel’s partner, Keinath in Dettingen, chose the sporty upper-class Monza coupé as the basis for its conversion in the early 1980s. Just like the production model, the sophisticated Keinath C5 – with two individual Recaro seats in the rear cabin and a modified notchback – was available with four or six-cylinder engines with outputs up to 180 hp. The base price was 81,000 marks and the total units built of the exclusive custom-made model remain in the two digits.

Opel Monza KC 5 convertible (1985)

The tradition of large convertibles is experiencing a renaissance with the new Opel Cascada. The nearly 4.7-meter long mid-size convertible has four full-sized seats, high-quality, classic soft-top technology and a load volume of up to 380 liters. The Cascada features a wide range of economical, technically sophisticated engines led by the new 1.6 liter SIDI Turbo ECOTEC gasoline engine with 125 kW/170 hp and direct injection. The Opel convertible is once again being built in an Opel plant, just like the Kapitän and Admiral in their day.

!NEW! Opel Mokka SUV is "AWD car of the year 2013"

• Title collector climbs well behind in the Top Reader's Choice Titel
• Trendy SUV convinced away from paved roads

The new Opel Mokka is still on course title: "wheel car of the year 2013" is the latest accolade for the trendy subcompact SUV. By the readers of "Auto Bild allwheel", the largest four-magazine in Europe, the Rüsselsheim offroader climbed to the top. The vote of the 105,000 participants strong reader panel, who voted on the website autobild.de noticed unusually clearly: As the overall winner in the category "Off-road vehicles and SUVs up to 25,000 euros" had the Mokka with some 38 percent of the vote to the Honda CR-V (11,1 percent) and the Skoda Yeti (6.0 percent) against 15 other competitors in the courts. Similarly confident the trophy collectors of Opel recently showed at the "Design Trophy" of "Auto Zeitung" and "Feel Master" in "Auto Bild". Even in the reader poll for "Car of Reason 2013" ("Good Advice" / "SUPERillu") stood in front of Mokka.

 

"This election is a clear endorsement of the market," said Matthias Seidl, Opel Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales, when he saw the price for the "wheel car of the year 2013" accepted it in Frankfurt. "We are proud that the best judges in the world - the car drivers and motorists - appreciate the mocha as a competent four-wheel drive. Our newcomer lives up to his appearance. "

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 of the Mokka can take with front-wheel drive and equipped with. The adaptive 4x4 system detects slippery when wet and when traction is needed on all four wheels. Then the electronically controlled center differential continuously and automatically redirects torque to the rear wheels. The force distribution, ranging from 100 percent to 50 percent front to front and rear axles, such as snow-covered roads. The wheel drive system weighs only 65 kilograms, so stay economically and environmentally protected.

Exclusive comfort and safety technologies
Generally, the Mokka offers a length of 4.28 meters, five people spaciousness. He also delivering on the promise of Opel to combine attractive design with innovative technologies and features from higher vehicle classes, placing them a wider range of customers to make it accessible. Opel leads the Mokka enter the Adpative Lighting system AFL +, Ergonomic seats with the seal of the Association and the Campaign for Healthier Backs, FlexFix integrated bicycle carrier into the SUV segment. The second-generation FlexFix can at Mokka transport up to three bikes.
 

Opel Mokka SUV - Adaptive Forward Lighting

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 just like the Opel front camera of the second generation with Front Collision Alert (FCA) and Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) and Lane Departure Warning (LDW). The successful SUV, to the present already well over 90,000 orders is from from 18.990, - Euro (RRP including VAT in Germany).

!NEW! ADAC Opel Rallye Cup starts

• Transfer of 24 ADAM rally cars in the Opel plant in Eisenach
•  Joint promotion of young Rally talents by Opel and ADAC
• ADAM 'Cup' as entry into the Internationally oriented Rally program

Of the 2013 season for the first time focused ADAC Opel Rallye CUP stands before the start: In a few weeks the new junior rally series from Opel and ADAC, which is aligned with specially designed "Cup" cars of the lifestyle streaker ADAM. Today, 24 teams took their ADAM "Cup" at Opel Eisenach in reception - where the ADAM is running in one of the most advanced car plants in Europe by the band. The rally version of Opel's newcomer is bustling heart of the Opel and ADAC jointly launched motorsport promotion concept. ADAM "Cup" was developed by Opel engineers in close cooperation with the engineering partner Holzer Motorsport Bobingen and has a 1.6 liter naturally aspirated engine with 140 horsepower and a five-speed sequential Sadev. With a price of less than € 25,000 Opel graphically illustrates how affordable rallying can be implemented at a high level.

In few weeks the new junior rally series from Opel and ADAC, which is aligned with specially designed "Cup" cars of the lifestyle streaker ADAM. Today, 24 teams took their ADAM "Cup" at Opel Eisenach.

"With their ADAM rally cars the teams start in a few days at ADAC Opel Rallye Cup. This brand trophy is a pillar of our new motorsport strategy. It is the basis for entry and advancement opportunities in the German and European rallying, "says Opel motorsport director Michael Meyer. And Lars Soutschka, ADAC Head of Motorsport, said: "The idea to break new ground in the promotion of young talent in the sport, has convinced us. Help we received with ADAC Opel Rallye Cup have created the right platform, shows the tremendous interest in our new series. "Barely 22 days after the official presentation of the new rally series already all 24 starting positions were awarded from over 70 applicants. This enthusiasm also host Stefan Fesser, Opel plant in Eisenach director tells, "We Eisenach Opel workers since the official launch of ADAM from the great attention for our new family member almost overwhelmed".

ADAM "Cup" teams also at the German Rally Championship in 2013 while running

The new rallying CSF, the partners and ADAC Opel perfectly complement: The ADAC provides the organizational framework and the motorsport infrastructure, Opel the right vehicles, the technology and racing expertise. As part of the 24 ADAM ADAC Rallye Masters' Cup "teams take each other out of the ADAC Rallye Opel CUP. The kick off on 5 and 6 April at the ADMV Rallye Erzgebirge. A highlight for the participants is the 22nd to 25 August: Then they compete in the ADAC Rally Germany, the German round of the FIA ​​World Rally Championship, with the world's best rally professionals. In addition to regular Opel ADAC Rallye Cup there is a separate classification for junior riders under 27 years old, whose winner will be promoted in the following season of ADAC and Opel continue.

As of the 2014 season takes stage two of the modular rally program, in which the ADAM R2 comes with FIA Regulations for use. In the basic technical configuration is the vehicle with the "Cup" version are broadly similar, the 1.6 liter engine in this version, some 185 hp. For intermediates can be upgraded to ADAM 'Cup' version on R2 standard.

The new Opel ADAC Rallye Cup Opel secures the conditions to build on the successful rally history of the company in the 70s and 80s. Rally legend Walter Röhrl in 1974 on the Ascona A and 1979 in the Ascona B European Rally Champion. The highlight of this era, also with Röhrl at the wheel, was the world title in 1982 at the legendary Ascona 400.

Walter Röhrl and Jochen Berger in an Opel Ascona A during the Moldow Rally, 1974.

Opel Ascona B 400, piloted to victory in the Rally World Championship by Walter Röhrl and Christian Geistdörfer, 1982

!NEW! Opel to Bring Advanced Technologies and Features to China in New Products

Opel will be bringing several new products to China over the coming year. The imported models, which will be announced shortly, will offer a range of advanced technologies and features. They include the FlexRide chassis control system, Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) and a panoramic windshield.

FlexRide Chassis Control System

The FlexRide chassis control system has three settings that enable users to change the car’s character with the push of a button: the balanced Standard mode, the comfort oriented Tour mode and the more active Sport mode.

Opel Insignia ST with FlexRide Chassis Control System

The system manages acceleration, shifting and the intervention threshold of the car's electronic control system. This enhances stability for better cornering and steering response by automatically adapting to road conditions, cornering speed, vehicle movement and individual driving style.

The Sport mode, for example, emphasizes speed. Acceleration is more dynamic and feedback is more responsive. Tour mode will please those taking medium and long distance trips. Its acceleration response is more moderate and its gear shifts are smoother. The suspension absorbs most of the road vibration, providing a more stable ride.

Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL)

Opel has long been an industry leader in research and development. It was the first car company to bring Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) to the market in 2002. The system features bi-xenon, gas-discharge headlamps that provide variable light beam distribution in terms of width, direction and range. The system has several lighting functions, including adverse weather light, dynamic curve light, cornering light and high beam light assistant, as well as LED daytime running lamps.

Opel Astra GTC Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL)

AFL received the Advanced award from the European New Car Assessment Program (Euro NCAP) independent consumer organization.

Panoramic Windshield

The Opel design philosophy places a particular emphasis on balancing functionality and comfort. The panoramic windshield is a classic example. The feature is popular with Opel owners, and is available on both the Astra and Zafira Tourer. The completely transparent windshield extends over the heads of passengers. Along with the narrow A-pillar and wide side windows, it ensures a superb field of view while providing a light, airy and comfortable driving experience.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV with panoramic windshield

!NEW! Opel to Debut Three New Models in China

Opel Insignia ST, Opel Astra GTC and Opel Zafira Tourer MPV to be Unveiled on March 28

On March 28 an exclusive group of automotive and business journalists will get their first look at three Opel models coming to China this year – the Insignia ST, Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer. The models will make their China debut at the Opel Brand Night that evening in Beijing. The new Opel entries will enable the brand to broaden its product lineup in China to help satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of Chinese vehicle buyers.

Opel Insignia ST

"These three models meet the needs of buyers in different market segments. With their exquisite craftsmanship, innovative design and extraordinary performance, they will help support the growth of the Opel brand in China," said Chen Wenxin, Director of GM China Opel Operations.

Opel Astra GTC

The three models embody Opel’s proud heritage of German engineering and technology excellence. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC both feature modern designs, with a panoramic windshield and a high seating position for an excellent view of the road ahead. The Insignia ST and Zafira Tourer are each equipped with the FlexRide chassis control system, which provides a range of settings for the driver to enjoy a combination of dynamic yet comfortable driving.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

The three models have already won several international awards in Europe, including the “Golden Steering Wheel 2012” for the Zafira Tourer from Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag, two leading automotive magazines in Germany, the 2009 “red dot design award” for the original version of Insignia ST - Insignia, and the 2012 “red dot design award” for the Astra GTC. The red dot award dates back to 1955 but has since grown into one of the biggest and most prestigious design competitions of the world.

Opel models are sold in China as part of GM’s multi-brand strategy to meet the needs of Chinese consumers. Opel is will also expand its nationwide distribution network in 2013 to make owning an Opel more convenient for customers. Today the Opel Antara mid-range SUV is Opel’s best-selling model in China.

 

Opel Antara SUV

!NEW! Opel’s Ergonomic seats ensure Back Friendly driving fun

Back Health Day in Germany

• New compact Mokka SUV winner in big Auto Bild “Wellness Test”
• Today is national “Back Health Day” in Germany
• Six Opel models with ergonomic seats certified by Campaign for Healthy Backs

Opel Mokka SUV - Interior with AGR certified ergonomic seats

Germany’s respected Auto Bild magazine recommends the Mokka for “better driving” thanks to its convenient entry height and comfortable seats with adjustable lumbar support. The new compact SUV recently won the trade magazine’s “Wellness Test” (issue 5/2013) ahead of eight competitors. The Mokka’s victory is due in large part to its ergonomic seats, which carry a seal of approval from the Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (Campaign for Healthy Backs) for their back friendliness.

The seats developed by Opel in the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) noticeably relieve strain on the spine and prevent back problems – a key aim of Aktion Gesunder Rücken, who together with the Bundesverband Deutscher Rückenschulen (Association of German Back Therapy Centers) are declaring “Back Health Day” for the twelfth time on March 15. According to AGR, the most common reason for work absenteeism across Europe is back pain. So it is important for commuters and frequent drivers who cover long distances every day to actively prevent back strain behind the wheel.

Opel offers the ideal solution to this with a range of AGR tested and certified premium and ergonomic seats for drivers and front passengers in the high-flying Mokka and new mid-size Cascada convertible, Meriva, Zafira Tourer, Astra and Insignia.

Opel Mokka SUV - First model in segment with AGR certified ergonomic seats

For the first time ever, AGR has awarded its seal of approval to a seat in the SUV B segment with its certification of the 18-way adjustable ergonomic seat in the Opel Mokka. The seat had to meet a list of ten criteria including four-way lumbar support and seatback contours that perfectly adapt to the natural curvature of the spine. In addition, the ergonomic seat offers many additional adjustment options in length, height, seat surface tilting and pull out thigh extension. With a wide adjustment range of up to 243 mm longitudinally and 65 mm in height, the seats are so accommodating that any body type, shape or size can find a comfortable and relaxed seating position. In combination with the steering wheel’s height and longitudinal adjustment, the Mokka fits perfectly to every driver.

Opel Meriva MPV - First car with AGR certification for integrated ergonomics system

The Opel Meriva also proves to be a true back friendly car. It is the first and to date only car that the back experts have awarded the AGR seal of approval for its certified ergonomic system. This includes the ergonomic seats, the revolutionary FlexDoors, the FlexSpace rear seating system and the optional FlexFix bicycle carrier. The AGR experts have special praise for Opel’s FlexDoors concept with its innovative rear-hinged rear doors system, which allows easy, gentle movements when entering and exiting from the rear. No twisting or awkward movements are necessary. Most passengers intuitively grab the B-pillar for a sturdy hold to assist their movements. All four doors have wide openings of 84 degrees, far above the average.

With the standard clever FlexSpace rear seat concept, the cabin can be easily and quickly transformed from a five to a four, three or two seat layout, without removing any seats – a feature shared by the advanced Flex7 concept in the Zafira Tourer. The interior configuration can be easily changed, as the seats gently slide into their positions and the whole process is very intuitive. According to AGR, this is especially beneficial for the lower back. Together, all these features make the Meriva a back friendly car unrivalled by any other brand’s offer.

!NEW! Graceful and elegant down to the last detail: Opel Cascada with LED tail lights by Hella

Hella LED tail light pre-production version

Hella LED tail light production version

Opel has equipped its new mid-size Cascada convertible with sophisticated technology designed to improve the safety of the vehicle in addition to its driving comfort. In this regard, the Rüsselsheim based car manufacturer opted for Hella lighting technology for the tail lights. The functions of the tail lights, rear fog lights and brake lights are all performed by the most modern LED technology, and the entire tail light unit is fully integrated into the trunk lid.

This means that the tail lights are harmoniously integrated into the four seater's streamlined design. Particularly recognizable is the arrow shaped LED tail light typical of Opel's aesthetics, and implemented as a uniformly illuminated surface using a semi-transparent lens. The brake lamp and the high mounted additional brake light are equally impressive in LED, and both feature a consistent appearance thanks to their coupling with a solid light conductor. Another unique element is the chrome bar which spans the trunk lid. 

This ornamental feature bisects the innermost ends of the tail lights, and posed a particular challenge in terms of production technology due to the very low tolerances involved. Meeting this challenge underlines the successful and cooperative partnership between Opel and Hella.