Whisper diesel for flagship: Two 1.6 CDTI units from newest generation
Personal connectivity and service assistant: Opel OnStar now available to order
Next infotainment level: Navi 900 IntelliLink with Apple CarPlay integration
Opel Insignia can now be ordered with 1.6 liter whisper diesels with 88 kW/120 hp and 100 kW/136 hp
More modern, powerful and totally connected – the Opel Insignia now comes with groundbreaking enhancements under the hood and in the interior. The new mid-size turbo diesel engines are now available in the Opel flagship for the first time. The 1.6 CDTI whisper diesel comes in two output versions providing powerful drive with economical consumption. Opel’s new infotainment generation guarantees top entertainment and optimum connectivity. The second-generation Navi 900 IntelliLink uses Apple CarPlay to bring the iPhone world into the car. Opel OnStar is also on board. The new personal connectivity and service assistant offers customers a wide range of safety and comfort services around the clock.
Downsizing with driving fun guarantee: 1.6 CDTI whisper diesel for Opel Insignia
Whisper diesel for Opel flagship: The 1.6 liter diesels with 88 kW/120 PS and 100 kW/136 PS will replace their 2.0-liter counterparts in the Opel Insignia.
Both versions of Opel’s new 1.6 liter whisper diesel now also show in the brand’s flagship that small-displacement engines with high torque and power leave nothing to be desired. The 88 kW/120 hp and 100 kW/136 hp units replace their 2.0 liter counterparts and were developed to deliver exemplary responsiveness and low consumption with exceptional running smoothness. Together with six-speed manual transmission and the Start/Stop system, the 88 kW/120 hp turbo diesel accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 11.9 seconds, matching its predecessor. For the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear, it needs just 10.4 seconds, making it more than two seconds faster than its forerunner. Its moderate consumption of up to 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 104 grams per kilometer (with low-rolling-resistance tires in the combined cycle). The turbo diesel with 100 kW/136 hp reduces fuel consumption by another 0.1 liters down to 3.8 liters per 100 kilometers. This brings CO2 emissions to an exemplary 99 grams per kilometer, undercutting the 100 gram limit so important for many drivers and fleets. Not one to make compromises, the engine adds five km/h to its predecessor’s top speed, reaching a maximum of 210 km/h. The Insignia sedan accelerates from zero to 100 in just 10.9 seconds and from 80 to 120 km/h in 10.4 seconds, quietly and comfortably with superb refinement. Both whisper diesel versions offer powerful 320 Nm of torque available from 2,000 rpm and can be ordered for entry-level prices of 26,670 and 28,070 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany) respectively.
Opel OnStar and IntelliLink with Apple CarPlay: How connectivity works today
The Opel Insignia not only offers a lot of driving fun with the new whisper diesel engines under its hood, top entertainment, all-round connectivity and highest safety are also ensured inside the cabin – with Opel OnStar and the new IntelliLink generation including Apple CarPlay integration.
The personal Connectivity und Service Assistant Opel OnStar is already on board as standard from the Edition trim level – customers can use all services free of charge for the first 12 months after activation. The extensive service offer includes 24-hour Automatic Crash Response, Stolen Vehicle Assistance, Roadside Assistance, Vehicle Diagnostics on important operating data and measurements as well as the remote control of various vehicle functions via Smartphone App. At the same time, Opel OnStar turns the Insignia into a powerful, mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot with stable internet connection. Up to seven devices can be connected to the system simultaneously – practical on journeys with family or when the Insignia serves as a mobile office.
Phone integration: For the first time, iPhone functions can be integrated via Apple CarPlay with the new Navi 900 IntelliLink
In addition, the next generation of Opel infotainment systems brings the world of smartphones into the car even more quickly and comprehensively. For the first time, iPhone functions can be integrated via Apple CarPlay with the new Navi 900 IntelliLink. This guarantees fast access to many entertainment apps for music and news. Display and operation are via the eight-inch color touchscreen. IntelliLink also enables audio streaming, having incoming SMS read aloud and voice control as well as watching films and videos – the former, of course, only when the car is stationary. The navigation system also features maps of more than 30 European countries; it can be displayed two or three-dimensionally according to personal preference and be controlled by voice command.
Opel teams dominate fourth round of FIA ERC Junior
Three ADAM R2 winners – Aleks Zawada ahead of Marijan Griebel and Julius Tannert
Bad luck costs Opel works drivers Griebel and Bergkvist near certain victory
Marijan Griebel, Stefan Clemens, Cathy Derousseaux, Aleks Zawada, Julius Tannert and Jennifer Thielen (from left to right) celebrate the Opel one-two-three at the Ypres Rallye.
Opel reinforced its strong position in the FIA ERC Junior at the Kenotek Ypres Rallye in West Flanders, Belgium. Pole Aleks Zawada and his French co-driver Cathy Derousseaux celebrated their first victory in their customer Opel ADAM R2, ahead of German Opel works drivers Marijan Griebel/Stefan Clemens from the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team and Julius Tannert and his Luxembourgian co-driver Jennifer Thielen in another customer Opel ADAM R2. Three of this year‘s four season victories in the FIA ERC Junior have now gone to the brand with the blitz!
“A fantastic day, a fantastic car, a fantastic rallye,” said an elated Zawada, who seemed to be out of the running for victory at the beginning of the second day after his 190 hp front-wheel drive car was stuck in a ditch for a minute after a harmless spin. But the Polish-French team did not give up, fought their way back and ultimately also benefitted from their competitors’ back luck. “Luck also plays a role, and the score is settled at the very end,” said Zawada. “I am really sorry for Emil and Marijan. Both deserved to win. But I am overjoyed that our efforts resulted in victory.”
The Opel works drivers Emil Bergkvist and Marijan Griebel battled for the lead from the first kilometer before both were impeded by mishaps. First Bergkvist had to retire his Opel ADAM R2 in the twelfth of seventeen stages with an engine problem. And then Griebel, who went into the last stage with a 36-second lead, suffered a left rear puncture shortly before the finish line. The 26-year-old from Hahnweiler still managed to take his Opel ADAM R2 across the finish line on one rim, but the time loss of nearly one minute sent him and his co-driver Stefan Clemens (28, from Thailen) to second place behind Zawada.
Bad luck strikes: Opel factory driver Marijan Griebel was leading until a damaged tire on the last stage of the Ypres Rallye saw him drop to second.
Griebel was understandably frustrated: “After a few days, I’ll probably be able to be pleased with our good performance and Opel Motorsport’s superior showing in this magnificent setting in front of thousands of excited spectators here in Ypres. But right now disappointment is the overwhelming feeling. Opel’s triple victory clearly proves that especially on asphalt, ADAM R2 currently sets the benchmark in its class. So we’re going into the last two FIA ERC Junior events in Estonia and the Czech Republic with a lot of self-confidence.”
Lead defending: Opel factory driver Emil Bergkvist defended first place in the FIA ERC Junior despite having to retire from the Ypres Rallye.
Swede Bergkvist (21, from Torsaker), who together with his co-driver Joakim Sjöberg (29, from Ösmo) won the first two FIA ERC Junior rounds in Latvia and Ireland, was disappointed but composed. “We had absolutely everything we needed to win here today. But things like this happen in motorsports, and there is no one I can blame for it. To be honest, I’d rather fight to win and have to pull out because of bad luck than be too slow and finish fourth. And we still have the best shot at the FIA ERC Junior championship.”
Indeed, the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team’s position in the FIA ERC Junior is still excellent. As only four of six rallye results are taken into consideration for the final points tally, Bergkvist’s withdrawal in Ypres could be a void result. And as his two toughest pursuers also failed to finish the race, he even increased his lead in the ranking after four rounds by two to 26 points. Griebel’s second-place finish put him in third place in the overall standings. He is currently 43 points behind his team colleague Bergkvist.
Opel Motorsport Director Jörg Schrott commented on his charges’ results with mixed feelings: “Today two hearts beat in my chest. We celebrated a fantastic result for Opel that proves that our customer ADAM R2s are just as powerful as both works cars. I really feel for Emil and Marijan. Both gave a fantastic performance that deserved a victory. Marijan really had everything under control until the last stage. But I’m also happy for Aleks and Julius, who showed that they are capable of keeping up with the fast pace at the top of the FIA ERC Junior. Overall the performance of the Opel ADAM R2 was extremely good. And we are of course happy to go into the races in Estonia and the Czech Republic knowing this.”
“Better off sharing” – New Opel carsharing community CarUnity for everyone
Free app now available for download
CarUnity important part of Opel mobility services
Cooperation with ridesharing platform flinc to be intensified
“Better off sharing“: Opel CMO Tina Müller launched Opel’s new carsharing community CarUnity today.
“Better off sharing” („Wer teilt, fährt besser“) – is the motto of Opel’s new carsharing community CarUnity. The innovative carsharing concept launched by the Rüsselsheim automaker in Germany appeals both to vehicle owners and to vehicle users. CarUnity enables them to offer their own car for rental or to rent a car of their choice quickly, easily and flexibly. It does not matter if the car is an Opel or a different brand. From today, the CarUnity app can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Combining forces: Opel CMO Tina Müller (left) and campaign ambassador Bettina Zimmermann present the new CarUnity app.
“We are taking a new approach with CarUnity. Opel is the first automaker to offer carsharing for everyone. CarUnity enables individual mobility everywhere in Germany – at any time and with greatest flexibility”, explains Chief Marketing Officer Tina Müller. “People in Germany can offer their car for rental or rent a car with the free app. Private carsharing fits to our brand – after all, approachable is one of our brand values.“
The CarUnity app can be downloaded for free from the Apple App Store and Google Play.
Carsharing à la Opel has many advantages: car owners all over Germany can earn money with their cars and car renters can use cars in their vicinity for reasonable prices. And with CarUnity, the use of existing cars will be increased, which conserves resources. Fuel costs are covered by the renter. “The slogan ‘Better off sharing’ says it all”, says Dr. Jan Wergin, who as Director Opel Community Carsharing masterminded the development of CarUnity: “Everyone involved benefits from this clever carsharing idea.”
Opel CMO Tina Müller and Dr. Jan Wergin, Director Opel Community Carsharing, presented Opel’s innovative carsharing community “CarUnity” today.
Thanks to the innovative app, car owners can decide who may rent their car. CarUnity users can, for example, offer their car only to their Facebook friends or to people in their personal CarUnity network. The entire transaction takes only a few seconds with the user-friendly app.
Insurance is of course provided for the rental cars. The Opel Bank GmbH developed a comprehensive package for this, and the insurance coverage itself is provided by R+V Allgemeine Versicherung AG.
Marketing for CarUnity is initially focused on the Rhine-Main region and includes cooperation with the radio station FFH, billboards at busy traffic hubs such as main railway stations as well as communication on social media networks. Many private individuals, Opel employees and dealers have already made their cars available to the community for the premiere of CarUnity. Some automotive treasures from Opel Classic can also be found on CarUnity.
Expanding the portfolio of mobility services is an important element of Opel’s plan for the future. “With CarUnity, early on we introduce young people who want to be mobile but do not have their own car to the Opel brand,” says Tina Müller. “In the future it will be increasingly important to develop from a product manufacturer to a mobility service provider with an outstanding network. CarUnity and our new personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar will play an important role in digitalizing the Opel brand.”
Against the background of the increasing importance of mobility services, Opel also announced closer cooperation with the ridesharing platform flinc. From 2016, flinc will provide the technical platform so that ridesharing can also be offered via the car-sharing app. “Just like for CarUnity, we will go our very own way,” explains Jan Wergin. Further details will be announced at a later date.
Just a few months ago, Opel started a successful cooperation with flinc for all employees at the headquarters in Rüsselsheim. “flinc’s technology has the potential to play an important role in Opel’s focus on expanding mobility services for customers throughout Europe,” says Tina Müller.
Eleventh generation: Opel driving from success to success in compact class since 1936
Eleven friends: All-New Astra leads the way for the eleven successful generations of Opel compact class cars; back row from the left: Kadett 1, Kadett A, Kadett B, Kadett C, Kadett D und Kadett E; front row from left: Astra F, Astra H, New Opel Astra K, Astra J, Astra G.
Over 24 million Opel Kadett and Opel Astra cars sold is an impressive number and a notable achievement. Lined up one behind the other, all Opel compact models built so far would surpass the magical 100,000-kilometer mark and create a column of cars that could circle the equator two and a half times. In short, one could say that Opel compact cars have successively made mobility accessible to new social classes and not only that. The latest generations have made technologies and innovations from higher segments such as outstanding lighting technologies, AFL+ in the Astra J and IntelliLux LED® in the new Astra, accessible.
Now Opel is starting a new chapter in the history of its bestseller – continuing the idea of democratizing innovations from upper classes and combining them with an expressive, dynamic design. The next Astra generation is based on an all-new lightweight vehicle architecture, is powered exclusively by newest generation engines and offers features previously only available in the upper class. Its lean design makes the Astra look more athletic than ever before. In short, the new Astra combines efficiency with elegance and redefines the compact class with its top innovations. The Opel Astra celebrates its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt this fall (September 17 – 27, 2015).
Speaking of celebrations, a direct ancestor of the new Astra, the Opel Kadett B, turns 50 this year. The Kadett was built more than 2.6 million times and in the 1960s was advertised with the slogan “Das Auto”. It left its competitors behind with its lively spirit, generous space, large luggage compartment and high safety level. In short: “If you know what you want, you drive a Kadett”.
To date the absolute bestseller in the 79 years of the Opel compact class has been the Astra F from 1991 to 1997. For the first time throughout Europe, the new model assumed the name Astra already used in the UK, and sold a total of over 4.1 million units. Within reach of the four-million mark were also the Kadett E (3.8 million) and Astra G (3.95 million). So there are plenty of good reasons to look back at the more than 24 million Opel compact models sold.
Kadett to Astra K – A success story spanning eleven generations
1936 - 1940: Opel Kadett 1 – The people’s car
The beginning: 107,000 Kadett 1 were produced in the Rüsselsheim plant from 1936 to 1940.
The first Opel Kadett was a minor sensation, both technically and in terms of price. More than 100,000 of these four-seat models were built from 1936 to 1940 in Rüsselsheim, which even then was one of the most advanced car-making plants in Europe. The first Kadett with its revolutionary unitary body construction available as a sedan or convertible cost only 2,100 marks. The speedy four-seater could do nearly 100 km/h and it did not take long to find its way into the hearts of the general public. It also found favor with the press: “As the first test drives have confirmed, the Kadett is certainly not an ordinary vehicle in this price range,” wrote a German newspaper, “Braunschweiger Tageszeitung,” on December 5, 1936. The chassis with Dubonnet independent front suspension and leaf-spring rear axle stemmed from the Opel Olympia, and the L-head four-cylinder gray cast-iron engine was taken from the Opel P 4. It generated 23 hp from a displacement of 1,073 cm3. The advantages of taking the engineering from a modular system also played a key part in the low price of the car.
1962 - 1965: Opel Kadett A – For the economic miracle
Opel Kadett A: Opel built nearly 650,000 of them from 1962 to 1965
Double strike: In June of 1962, the first Opel Kadett limousine after the end of the Second World War was produced, quickly followed by the sporty Opel Kadett A Coupé (on photo) in September of the same year.
A large trunk and plenty of room for four people plus a new, lively engine and low maintenance costs made up the recipe for success for the Opel Kadett A. Opel built nearly 650,000 of them from 1962 to 1965. The contours of the two-door notchback model were businesslike and modern. The beltline was low down, the panoramic windows made for good visibility and a decorative strip running along the side accentuated the stretched form. Front fenders tapered off into the headlamps and the rear ends were shaped like fins. The interior space deeply impressed owners of conventional small cars. The trunk was a real baggage compartment and the fuel tank cap was outside! “Opel Kadett, in brief: O.K.,” wrote Opel’s advertising team, unable to also resist a dig at their competitors in Wolfsburg. “You never have the smell of gasoline in the trunk,” they said with a wink. With its modern, water-cooled front engine, the Kadett had another major design advantage over the Beetle. The 993 cm3 four-cylinder unit developed 40 hp and, from March 1963, also powered the new Opel Kadett Caravan.
Opel Kadett Caravan
1965 - 1973: Opel Kadett B – “Das Auto”
Clear thing: In 1969, Opel advertises the Kadett B with a short and sharp slogan „Das Auto“.
B follows A, and in 1965 a new series replaced the first model. The new version was more than four meters long and thus a good deal bigger than its predecessor. As for its fashionable figure – the designers were inspired by their colleagues overseas. The flat sloping rear was reminiscent of the fastback models popular in the USA. In 1966, “Automobil Illustrierte” noted: “You can almost see the power and speed before you hear the engine.” Not only was the length stepped up – so, too, was the horsepower. Opel engineers enlarged the bore of the four-cylinder unit by 3 mm. The basic 1,078 cm3 unit developed 45 hp. Also available was a higher-compression 1.1 S engine with 55 hp.
Classic car: Opel Kadett B and its luxurious offspring the Olympia A were sold over 2.7 million times from September 1965 to July 1973.
The Kadett was a fast success, with over 2.6 million units produced from September 1965 to July 1973. And its success was certainly not limited to its country of birth. In 1966, the export quota reached 50 percent as customers from 120 countries around the globe snatched up the Kadett.
Eye-catcher: From 1965 to 1970 Opel Kadett B was available as the so-called ‘Gills- Coupé’ with prominent ventilation slots on the C-pillar.
1973 - 1979: Opel Kadett C – The athlete
Millionaire: Kadett C, the last Opel in the compact class with rear-wheel drive, was produced 1.6 million time from August 1973 until July 1979.
The three body variants of the Opel Kadett C, Sedan, Caravan and Coupe, 1973-1979
Opel Kadett C family had many faces: a smart family car, a chic second car with a practical rear tailgate, or a competitive sports coupé in war paint. A total of 1.7 million of them were built between 1973 and 1979. The rear-wheel drive Opel Kadett C made its debut in August 1973 with a cleanly designed body and a new double-wishbone front axle. Characteristic design features included a flat radiator grille, an engine hood with the brand’s signature crease, and a front apron in spoiler form. “The Kadett not only drives exceptionally well, but is also conscientiously designed and cleanly made. It requires little maintenance, is repair-friendly and economical to run,” praised the car-testing experts at “auto motor und sport” in the 20/73 edition. The powerful GT/E debuted at the 1975 IAA. Its 1.9 liter engine with Bosch L-Jetronic injection produced 105 hp and propelled the mere 900 kilograms of Kadett to a top speed of 184 km/h.
Collector’s item: Today, well-preserved Kadett C Coupé GT/E are sought after and expensive. The powerful rallye version 2000 E is an eye-catcher at every classic car event.
1979 - 1984: Opel Kadett D – The front-wheel drive car
New epoch: Front-wheel drive and transverse-mounted engine celebrated their debuts in Opel compact class cars in the 1979 Kadett D.
The fourth generation of the post-war Kadett introduced a new compact class era at Opel. At the 1979 IAA, Opel’s first front-wheel drive model debuted as the modern-looking Kadett D. The packaging was truly convincing. Although the newcomer was 126 mm shorter than its predecessor at 3,998 mm, it sported a longer interior and offered significantly more space than many of its rivals. But it was not only the powertrain layout and the chassis with a torsion-beam axle at the rear that broke with tradition: the Kadett was given a new 1.3 liter OHC engine that generated 60 or 75 hp. The revolution continued with the body variants. In addition to the spacious station wagon with a load volume of up to 1,425 liters, Opel offered only fastback versions. In January 1983 the sporty Opel Kadett GTE followed, with a top speed of 187 km/h and equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that developed 115 hp. Other technical modifications included a tighter and lower chassis, new steering dampers and internally ventilated disk brakes at the front. A total of 2.1 million Kadett D units were produced from 1979 to 1984.
Great white: Opel Kadett D GTE with its sports chassis, Recaro seats and feisty 115 hp began hunting down GTIs in 1983.
1984 - 1991: Opel Kadett E – The aerodynamics world champion
Opel Kadett E: “Car of the Year 1985”
The second front-wheel drive Kadett, built from 1984 to 1991, was named “Car of the Year 1985” and was an absolute winner. Selling a grand total of 3,779,289 cars in its lifetime, it was the bestselling Opel so far and a real aerodynamics world champion. Opel engineers certainly hit the jackpot in 1984. Based on the engineering of its predecessor but with a completely new hatchback design, the Kadett E was set for a stellar career. With a drag coefficient of 0.39, the Kadett D was already best in its class, but this figure paled in comparison to its successor. After spending 1,200 hours of fine-tuning in the wind tunnel, the E model achieved a sensational 0.32.
Sporty: GTE was replaced by GSi in the Kadett E which, starting in 1986, initially had a two-liter engine with a regulated catalytic converter and 85 kW / 116 hp and later possessed four-valve technology and 110 kW / 150 hp.
The sporty GSi, with a Cd of 0.30 and aerodynamic drag of 0.57 m2, was the most aerodynamic hatchback in the world. Buyers took to the new form after only a few months, paving the way for a new success story that provided the Kadett E with 625,000 new registrations across Europe in 1987. By this time, the station wagon version had already climbed to the top of its class. From the fall of 1985, a notchback variant was again in the line-up, the first since the Kadett C. Moreover, the sporty GSi variant was an icon in the making. When the legendary 16-valve engine arrived on the scene in 1987, it left its competitors eating dust.
Top of the range: Opel Kadett E GSi 16V with 110 kW/150 hp
1991 - 1997: Opel Astra F – The bestseller
Body variants of the ’91 Opel Astra F, 1991–-1998.
Some 4.13 million Astra Fs were built between 1991 and 1997, making it the bestselling Opel model ever. Development work focused on combining modern design with more interior space, enhanced comfort and greater emphasis on environmental protection.
The successor to the Kadett assumed the name of its British sister model (the fourth generation of the Kadett had been sold in the UK as the Vauxhall Astra since 1980). Opel also launched a safety offensive with its new star.
Opel Astra F with active belt system with pre-tensioners
All Astras offered an active belt system with tensioners on the front seats belts, height-adjustable belts and seat ramps as well as side protection including double steel tube reinforcements in all the doors. For the first time, all engines came with catalytic converters.
High safety as standard: Side protection with double steel tube reinforcements in all the doors.
1998 - 2004: Opel Astra G – The versatile car
In spring 1998, the Astra with coupé-like design was offered from the start as a three- and five-door hatchback and as a station wagon. A notchback sedan, coupé and convertible were added later. Progressive independent design, dynamic chassis and powertrain technology as well as nearly twice the torsional and flexural rigidity of its predecessor were just some of the characteristics of the completely new, second-generation Opel Astra. The new model’s fully galvanized body played a key role in its high value retention. Active safety was enhanced with a 30 percent increase in the light output of the transparent H7 halogen headlamps and the completely redesigned Dynamic Safety (DSA) chassis. It combined comfort with agile and safe handling, even under full load. The wheelbase was around ten centimeters longer, enabling more interior space, in particular more rear knee room in the rear and a larger trunk volume of 370 liters.
2004 - 2009: Opel Astra H – The mighty car
Esthete: The Opel Astra H shaped the compact class in Europe from March 2004 to September 2010.
With twelve engines ranging from 90 to 240 hp and seven body variants, the choice of models for the Astra H that sold over 2.7 million units was exceptional. When it was launched in March 2004, the third-generation Opel Astra boasted a progressive design, high driving dynamics and plenty of technical innovations, immediately winning numerous comparison tests in specialist automotive publications. Opel Astra’s technological highlights included the adaptive IDSPlus chassis system with electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC), otherwise only found in luxury class and exclusive sports cars, as well as Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) Bi-Xenon headlamps system with dynamic curve light.
Opel Astra also boasted high levels of safety. The consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) awarded the Astra the highest rating of five stars for adult passenger protection. With a total of 34 points, the bestseller was considered one of the safest sedans in the compact class.
SAFETEC: Safety system in the Opel Astra H
2009 - 2015: Opel Astra J – The designer piece
Design philosophy: ‚Sculptural Artistry Meets German Precision’ in the Opel Astra J.
Sculptural artistry combined with German precision – the Opel Astra J not only embodies the brand’s new design philosophy, it also assists drivers with a range of technologies that already made an important contribution to the success of the best-selling mid-class Insignia. The Opel Eye recognizes traffic signs and informs the driver of speed limits or overtaking bans. It also warns drivers if they are in danger of veering out of lane. With the AFL+ headlamp system, the Astra can look around the corner and, if necessary, even automatically dim the lights or switch to high beam.
With a chassis that can be enhanced by the FlexRide adaptive technology, the current Astra can play out its dynamic talents to the full. A new rear axle construction guarantees driving fun, improved handling and maximum comfort, with a Watt’s link incorporated to improve wheel control.
Astra drivers also benefit from a new generation of front seats developed according to the latest findings in safety ergonomics and are awarded with the seal of quality from the independent medical and back experts of the AGR (action for healthy backs) organization.
From 2015: Opel Astra K – The quantum leap
Up to 200 kg lighter, roomier inside despite a reduced overall length, and more efficient thanks to exclusive use of new-generation engines – the new Opel Astra is a quantum leap in development and makes its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in September 2015. Order books for the five-door variant of the next generation of the successful compact class model just opened in mid-June. Prices for the new Astra with the 1.4-liter gasoline engine start at just 17,260 euros. Therefore, it does not cost a cent more than its predecessor does. 53 years after it was introduced in a Kadett, an engine with 1.0-liter displacement makes its return under the hood of an Opel compact model. However, now it is an almost twice as powerful, three-cylinder unit with an output of 77 kW/105 hp reached thanks to Direct Injection and Turbo technologies. This engine also makes the new Astra the cleanest and most economical gasoline-powered model on the market in the compact class. Continuing a tradition that started with the Astra G, the new Astra K also stands out with its lighting technology. It is the first car to introduce the adaptive, full LED matrix technology IntelliLux LED® – so far reserved for luxury and premium models from higher classes – into the compact segment. New generation driver assistant systems also comprise Traffic Sign Assistant, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning along with Following Distance Indication and Forward Collision Alert with Collision Imminent Braking. In addition, the new Astra K once again delivers on wellness with newly engineered ergonomic front seats, certified by the AGR organization once more, being introduced. These new front seats can even be enhanced with a ventilation and massage function.
Sophisticated new performance sedan launched at New Zealand ice track
V8 Supercar star, James Courtney, confirmed as Insignia VXR ambassador
Holden Insignia VXR boasts All Wheel Drive (AWD) turbocharged performance with leading safety technology
Marks the latest entrant in a product onslaught that will see Holden launch 24 major models over the next five years
New Holden Insignia VXR
Holden’s European invasion continues, with the German-designed and built Insignia VXR performance sedan today launching at the snow-covered Southern Hemisphere Proving Ground in New Zealand. Packing all-wheel-drive and turbocharged performance, the Insignia marks fresh territory for Holden’s long-established performance credentials.
From one performance hero to another, V8 Supercar championship winner, James Courtney, also joined the launch, and was officially announced as the vehicle ambassador for the Insignia VXR sports sedan.
The Holden Racing Team driver and 2010 V8 Supercar Series Championship winner put the Insignia to the test in the snow-covered conditions, demonstrating just what the Insignia is capable of in a series of extreme ice driving exercises.
Courtney said the Insignia VXR thrived at the Proving Ground’s challenging winter conditions which were a far cry from the heat of the previous V8 Supercar round in Darwin.
“Ice driving has been an awesome experience and I am really impressed with what the Insignia VXR is capable of doing” Courtney said.
“It’s an exciting and engaging drive experience with a great AWD system that provides fantastic traction and ensures all 239 kilowatts of power are delivered to the driven wheels.
“This a genuine performance mid-size sedan that combines power, an amazing amount of technology and stunning looks.”
Following the launch of Astra and Cascada, Insignia VXR is the next instalment in Holden’s future product onslaught which promises 24 new models and 36 powertrain combinations over the next five years; a third of which will be sourced from Europe.
Designed, engineered and built in Russelsheim, Germany, Insignia VXR boasts a long list of technology features including a premium infotainment system, two eight-inch digital display screens, Adaptive Forward Lighting, Side Blind Spot Alert and FlexRide Suspension.
New Holden Insignia VXR - Premium infotainment system, two eight-inch digital display screens
The vehicle also welcomes three sophisticated new technologies to Holden with the introduction of Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Change Alert and Auto Emergency Braking.
New Holden Insignia VXR - Interior with Recaro leather-appointed sports seats
The advanced technology exhibited by Insignia VXR features state-of-the-art adaptive AWD technology, an Australian made 2.8 litre turbocharged engine and FlexRide chassis control system, which combine to deliver 239kW of power and 435Nm of torque.
Holden’s Executive Directive of Sales, Peter Keley, said Insignia VXR represented the next step in Holden’s evolution with cutting edge technology and engaging performance, and James Courtney was the ideal ambassador.
“Holden is committed to leveraging GM’s global product portfolio to source the best cars for Australia and Insignia VXR is the perfect embodiment of that,” said Mr Keley.
“Insignia VXR combines engaging driving performance with a range of advanced safety features and an exciting infotainment system, blended together with world renowned European build quality.
“It’s great to have James Courtney on board as an ambassador for the car. His expertise and experience gives Insignia VXR the credibility it deserves.”
Mr. Keley also said that Insignia VXR, along with Astra and Cascada, were clear proof points of Holden’s future strategy and delivered on Holden’s commitment to leveraging the best vehicles from GM’s global portfolio.
“Insignia VXR marks the second important chapter in Holden’s exciting new European product strategy,” said Mr Keley.
“Our new European sourced products ooze style and performance, both key attributes for Holden, and are indicative of the range of new products that will be launched in the near future.
“With a wider and more varied product range as well as the ongoing customer support provided through our lifetime Capped Price Servicing program, now is a great time to buy a Holden.”
Insignia VXR is on sale now and is backed by Holden’s lifetime Capped Price Service program.
PRODUCT DETAILS
Key Features:
2.8 litre V6 turbocharged engine with six-speed automatic transmission
20-inch alloy wheels
Heated Recaro leather-appointed front sports seats
Affordable entry to diesel world: Opel Mokka 1.6 CDTI with 81 kW/110 hp from euro 24,185
Free trial period for first year: Order books for Opel OnStar now open
Excellent outlook: New Black Roof Edition trim level
New Opel Mokka 1.6 CDTI - Black Roof Edition
Opel Mokka is the most successful SUV in its class in Germany and a true brand ambassador for Opel throughout Europe. To date, it has been ordered over 400,000 times. From now on, driving an Opel Mokka will be even more affordable and safer. The entry into the whisper diesel world is now possible starting at euro 24,185 – euro 500 less than so far (RRP including VAT in Germany). In addition, the groundbreaking personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar will be available for the SUV. And customers can choose an additional sporty trim level: Black Roof Edition.
Spoiled for choice: Two whisper diesels for the Opel Mokka SUV
New entry-level diesel for the Mokka: The 1.6 CDTI whisper diesel with 81 kW/110 hp is available for order in the successful SUV as of now.
The modern chassis and powertrain technologies are just two of the reasons for the success of the Opel Mokka. The 100 kW/136 hp 1.6 CDTI only celebrated its debut in the successful SUV at the beginning of the years (combined consumption and CO2 emissions 4,3‑4,1 l/100 km, 114-109 g/km, with six-speed manual transmission). Now its smaller whisper diesel sibling with 81 kW/110 PS will also be available in the Mokka. The new entry-level diesel once again impresses with exemplary responsiveness, pleasant running smoothness and low consumption. It offers powerful 300 Nm of torque, available already from 2,000 rpm. In combination with a six-speed manual transmission, the turbo diesel propels the Mokka from 0 to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds. It needs 11.8 seconds for mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear. At the same time, the high-tech engine also reduces consumption. The 81 kW/110 hp Mokka only needs 4,3‑4,1 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers which is equivalent to CO2 emissions of 109 grams per kilometer in the combined cycle.
Real help: The personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar
However, The Opel trendsetter doesn’t just offer high-tech in the powertrain sector – it also sets standards in safety. The Mokka can now be ordered with the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar. The system offers customers a wide array of safety and comfort services ranging from automatic crash response or roadside services to the powerful, mobile 4G/LTE Wi-Fi hotspot. The connectivity and service assistant comes as standard in the Cosmo trim level. In addition, it is available as an option for Enjoy and Black Roof Edition for euro 490 (RRP including VAT in Germany). OnStar subscribers will be able to use the entire service portfolio free of charge for the first twelve months.
Opel Mokka SUV - Black Roof Edition
The new Black Roof Edition trim level adds further sparkle to the Opel Mokka line-up with the SUV now being available with high-gloss black roof and door mirrors.
Opel Mokka SUV Black Roof Edition - 18 inch wheels in high-gloss black color
Furthermore, the color range for the two-time company car of the year and two-time all-wheel drive car of the year has been extended. Customers can now also have the Opel Mokka in True Blue metallic or Abalone White.
Kenotek Ypres Rallye marks start of second half of FIA ERC Junior season
Emil Bergkvist wants to defend his lead in the FIA ERC Junior in Ypres
Marijan Griebel banking on his and the Opel ADAM R2’s outstanding asphalt qualities
Frontrunner: Emil Bergkvist wants to impress with his ADAM R2 in Belgium and tighten his grip on the overall lead of the FIA ERC Junior.
From the gravel of the Azores to the asphalt of West Flanders – the Kenotek Ypres Rallye marks the start of the second half of the FIA ERC Junior season. The ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team has an ambitious approach to the decisive phase of the strongest junior championship in Europe. Swede Emil Bergkvist (21, from Torsåker) is currently leading the FIA ERC Junior in his Opel ADAM R2 after celebrating two wins in the first three races of the season. His German team-mate Marijan Griebel (26, from Hahnweiler) has been unlucky so far, failing to finish for the second time this season in his last appearance in the Azores. However, thanks to the scoring system, he still has every chance of moving up the rankings. Only four of the six races of the FIA ERC Junior are taken into consideration for the final points tally.
Ambitious goals: Marijan Griebel wants to make up for not finishing in the SATA Rallye and is targeting a podium finish in Ypres.
“I know the Ypres Rallye from last year and know exactly what to expect,” said Griebel, who along with his co-driver Stefan Clemens (28, Thailen) has set himself ambitious targets for the trip to Belgium. “I like the stages and they should be well suited to me. The competition is probably going to be a lot stiffer than last year because the level in the FIA ERC Junior is so high this year. However, the entire ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team is well prepared and we know that we have a fast car, especially on asphalt. I want a podium finish in Ypres!”
The drivers of the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team have demonstrated their potential on asphalt on numerous occasions in the past, most recently when securing a one-two finish at the Rallye Ireland and at the Rallye Wervik in Belgium, which both Bergkvist and Griebel used for preparation for the Ypres Rallye.
Leading duo: Emil Bergkvist and his co-driver Joakim Sjöberg are currently leading the pack in the overall standings of the FIA ERC Junior.
Bergkvist and his co-driver Joakim Sjöberg (29, from Ösmo) realize that they will be facing a real test. “Marijan will be very strong in Ypres,” said the current championship leader who turned 21 on June 17. “I am looking forward to a great rallye and a new challenge. We dropped some points in the Azores but we are determined to fight for a place on the podium in Ypres. We all realize that is will be tough in this very strong field. However, since Ireland at the very latest we know that our ADAM R2 can win on asphalt if we all do a good job. I obviously want to defend my overall lead, but in this strong field that will only be possible if I attack – and that is what I plan to do.”
Two customer ADAM R2s will also be competing in Ypres, with Julius Tannert and his Luxembourgian co-driver Jennifer Thielen along with Pole Aleks Zawada and his French co-driver Cathy Derousseaux racing under the Opel colors.
The first stage of the Ypres Rallye, which in total consists of 17 demanding stages covering 253 kilometers, will start on Friday (June 26) at 16:15 CEST and end at 22:30 CEST. The following day, the action will start at 10:20 CEST and end at 22:30 CEST. Opel offers live timing on the website www.opel-motorsport.com.
The Ypres Rallye on TV: Friday, June 26 00:00 Eurosport Training and preview Saturday, June 27 00:15 Eurosport Highlights Day 1 Sunday, June 28 00:00 Eurosport Highlights Day 2 08:00 Eurosport 2 Highlights Day 2 (repeat) Tuesday, June 30 23:00 Eurosport Inside ERC – The Magazine
