!NEW! Light, Lighter – New Opel Astra

• Consistent lightweight design: Five-door model up to 200 kilograms lighter
• Engineered from white sheet of paper: Every component trimmed to highest efficiency
• Compact: All-aluminum engines and interior concept save more weight
• Intelligent architecture: More space in slimmer shell

Consistent lightweight design: New Opel Astra is up to 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor

Lighter, more frugal and compact while offering more generous interior space – everything about the new Opel Astra follows the maxim of highest efficiency. All components and design features are aligned to this touchstone, resulting in intelligent packaging à la Astra. The next generation of the compact bestseller that makes its premiere at the IAA in Frankfurt (September 17 – 27) is based on an all-new lightweight architecture, its body is noticeably slimmer and it is driven by powerful, weight- and CO2-optimized all-aluminum engines. All told, the new Astra is up to 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor.

Consistent lightweight design: The new vehicle architecture

The visionary Monza Concept presented at the 2013 IAA was the role model for Opel’s eleventh compact class generation. Every component of the study reflects the efficiency maxim. The new Opel Astra already consistently realizes this vision: depending on the model and trim level, it is up to 200 – but in any case at least 120 – kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The new, thoroughly slimmed down vehicle architecture plays a decisive role in this weight loss: the bodyshell (body-in-white) and structure alone are over 20 percent lighter, down from 357 to 280 kilograms. Another 50 kilograms were saved in the design of chassis components: high-strength and ultra-high-strength lightweight steels, more compact subframes as well as modification to the front and rear suspensions all contributed to this end result. In addition, engineers decided against full underbody paneling to further optimize the aerodynamics of chassis and drivetrain elements, resulting in a double advantage: lower weight and reduced production costs that enable more attractive price structures for customers.

Bodyshell weight alone was reduced by 20% from 357 to 280 kilograms

Further size- and mass-optimization measures include shorter front and rear overhangs, as well as the up to 25 percent lighter exhaust system which saves around 4.5 kilograms on this part alone. The smaller wheels and tires weigh up to 11.5 kilograms less. The same is true for the brakes: as the system has less mass to decelerate, a more compact design weighing 10 kilograms less was possible – while delivering even better braking performance.

Lose the weight: Engines make their contribution

Another plus on the efficiency side is the new-generation engines. They distinguish themselves with their compact and ultra-efficient design: for instance the new 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine making its premiere in the Astra weighs much less than current comparable units. Its aluminum engine block alone is ten kilograms lighter than the cast-iron block of its predecessor. Thanks to their compact design, the newest-generation, ultra-modern transmissions save just as much weight.

All-aluminum: New 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with central direct fuel injection will be available in the new Opel Astra in two outputs, 92 kW/125 hp and 110 kW/150 hp.

Reduced weight also leads to noticeably higher agility. The new Astra is more fun to drive than ever before – while saving fuel and CO2 emissions. The newcomer with the 1.0 Turbo and Easytronic 3.0 combination is one of the most economical and cleanest gasoline models in its segment. The 77 kW/105 hp three-cylinder unit reduces consumption in the combined cycle to 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers and CO2 emissions to an exemplary 96 g/km.

Lose the weight: Light all-aluminum engines like the highly efficient 1.0 Turbo make their important contribution to it.

The interior was also put through a fitness program. Take, for instance, the seats: after five years of detailed work, the development team presented compact class seats that are more functional and comfortable, while featuring more of a space- and weight-saving design than ever before. State-of-the-art packaging calculation methods enable this, as do lighter polyurethane foams and ultra-high-strength steels that are built in under the robust seat upholstery. So the new Opel Astra seats in front and rear are a total of around ten kilograms lighter than in the previous model.

Intelligent packaging: Lighter, more compact yet more spacious

Intelligent packaging: New Opel Astra is lighter, more compact yet more spacious than its predecessor.

The new Astra generation not only looks more sophisticated and athletic, it is also more compact. With a total length of 4.37 meters, the five-door hatchback is almost five centimeters shorter than its predecessor, its height of 1.48 meters is 2.5 centimeters smaller and its width has been reduced by 0.5 centimeters to 1.81 meters. These dimensions also have a positive effect on the vehicle’s weight. At the same time, interior space is more generous. Together with the newly designed, lighter and more compact seats, rear-seat passengers now benefit from 35 millimeters more legroom than before. This puts the five-door model in first place ahead of all the competition. Distance between the first and second rows has been increased by 1.5 centimeters, greatly enhancing traveling comfort and sense of space. The same is true for upper-body freedom of movement for passengers in both front and rear seats. Especially in terms of headroom, the new Opel Astra sets standards in its class: the driver has 2.2 centimeters more headroom than in the predecessor. So the new Opel Astra successfully squares the circle: it is lighter and more compact while offering more space and comfort than before.

!NEW! Compact Connectivity Star: New Astra with Opel OnStar and IntelliLink

• Extensive: Full Opel OnStar portfolio including powerful Wi-Fi hotspot
• Innovative: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration available
• Entertaining: Next generation IntelliLink systems cover all bases
• Wi-Fi Hotspot makes online smartphone navigation more practicable

Phone integration: The Navi 900 IntelliLink system of the new Opel Astra is compatible with Apple CarPlay.

When the new Opel Astra hits the roads, it will do so with an unrivalled connectivity offer. The Astra is the first new model to be introduced with the new personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar. In addition, two next generation devices of Opel’s award-winning IntelliLink infotainment systems also make their premiere in the new Astra. More than ever, they bring the connected world of smartphones and apps into the cabin. They are compatible with the latest Android 5.0 Lollipop and Apple iOS-8 (or higher) smartphones. With the integration of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, users can for instance access audio streaming and message reading, and additional, third party apps such as Stitcher, Podcast, Spotify, Umano, etc. (depending on the integration system) via the car controls and up to eight-inch large touchscreens.

“Connectivity is one of Opel’s outstanding features as seen with our award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system. Opel OnStar is further proof that we want to deliver trendsetting innovations in connectivity to a wider audience,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “Opel OnStar is a ground-breaking technology and service: It will make driving more comfortable – but most of all it will add a new, extraordinary level of safety to Opel vehicles. In addition, it enables a direct dialogue with our customers that will create stronger ties with the brand. All this will convince even more new buyers that Opel is the right choice.”

Powerful 4G/LTE mobile hotspot

The new Astra is the first Opel to be available with Opel OnStar from its launch – making it, by far, the most advanced and the most caring car in the compact segment. Created 17 years ago in the U.S.A, OnStar already is the leading provider of connected safety and security solutions, value-added mobility services and advanced information technology in North America, China and Mexico with over 7 million subscribers. Opel OnStar is making its debut in the Opel passenger car range in 13 European markets (Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Luxemburg, Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Switzerland, and the UK) with additional European countries following later.

Connected to people: Opel OnStar advisors are multilingual in order to be able to answer in the subscribers’ own languages and are available 24/7 and 365 days a year

When equipped with Opel OnStar, the new Astra doubles as a 4G/LTE Wi-Fi hotspot, enabling up to seven devices to be connected to the car network. The built-in 4G LTE structure is specifically designed for in-vehicle use: it is integrated into the vehicle’s electrical system and includes an external antenna to maximize connectivity and deliver a stable internet connection. As the OnStar system comprises an independent SIM card encapsulated in its module, customers are not required to have a smartphone to use connected services. 4G LTE will initially be introduced in three markets, Germany, the UK and the Netherlands with the remaining countries following suit at a later stage.

Extensive service portfolio

Apart from bringing the latest in mobile Wi-Fi technology to the automotive world, Opel OnStar also gives access to a broad portfolio of services such as emergency services, roadside recovery and smartphone remote control. Opel OnStar’s key principle is that subscribers are connected to real people, not to machines nor multiple-choice mailboxes. These OnStar Advisors are located at the high-tech Opel OnStar Contact Center in Luton, England. They are multilingual in order to be able to answer in the subscribers’ own languages and are available 24/7 and 365 days a year.

Fully connected. With Opel OnStar.

Opel OnStar’s only visible feature in the car is a module comprising three buttons that is located close to the interior rear view mirror above the windscreen. The blue Service Button gives access to comfort services such as Vehicle Diagnostics and Destination Download: for instance, OnStar subscribers looking for a certain destination such as a restaurant or the closest gasoline station press it to contact an Opel OnStar advisor who will send the desired destination directly to the navigation system embedded in the vehicle.

Push the button: The new Astra is available with Opel OnStar from its launch – making it, by far, the most advanced and the most caring car in the compact segment

At a push of the red SOS Button, Opel OnStar users can request assistance whenever they deem it necessary, for example if they witness an accident. But OnStar is also there in case one cannot ask for help personally. For example, if an airbag deploys, Opel OnStar’s guardian angel is alerted automatically. An advisor will then contact the subscriber and call him in the vehicle via the OnStar module to determine whether help is required. If there is no response, the advisor will immediately send emergency responders to the exact location of the vehicle. 

The Privacy button allows the subscriber to mask the position of the car and become invisible to the system. However, to ensure maximum safety for subscribers, Opel OnStar will automatically overrule the privacy command in case an airbag is deployed.

In addition, the Opel OnStar subscriber can also download OnStar’s MyOpel Smartphone App. It allows him to contact OnStar from anywhere via his smartphone, for instance if his car has been stolen, needs to be located and remotely immobilized at some point. The app also enables the subscriber to remotely access important vehicle data such as oil life and tire pressure, or to remotely lock or unlock his car.

The entire Opel OnStar service portfolio is available in the new Astra and in all equipped Opel vehicles free of charge for the first 12 months after registration.

Phone integration via Android Auto and Apple CarPlay

Two new IntelliLink systems premiere in the new Opel Astra, R 4.0 IntelliLink and Navi 900 IntelliLink – which features an integrated navigation system. They seamlessly and easily integrate smartphone functionalities. R 4.0 IntelliLink is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto phone integration from the beginning and enables, for instance, navigation via Apple and Android apps such as Apple Maps and Google Maps. The Navi 900 IntelliLink system is already compatible with Apple CarPlay, while Android Auto compatibility is scheduled to arrive in the course of 2016.

New Opel Astra: Navi 900 IntelliLink

Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you would want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto.

The functions can be controlled via the large, up to eight-inch touchscreen located on the center stack, via remote control on the steering wheel (selected functions only) or via voice control. In order to minimize the risk of distraction, the most important information can be repeatedly displayed directly under the drivers’ eyes in the color instrument cluster located between the speedometer and the rev counter. In combination with Opel OnStar, smartphones can easily be connected to the car’s Wi-Fi hotspot. This brings additional benefits such as real-time traffic information or the latest maps, and thanks to the map data being stored on a server instead of the phone, it saves memory on the device. In addition, online navigation via smartphone requires a permanent internet connection as well as a data plan, which can be an expensive experience, especially while roaming. But thanks to the personal connectivity and service assistant, drivers of the new Astra can not only use Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for navigation, they can do so without impacting their smartphone’s data plan.

With Opel OnStar, the latest generation of IntelliLink infotainment systems and state-of-the-art smartphone integration, the new Astra is perfectly equipped to deal with the most sophisticated connectivity demands of the modern-day car owner.

!NEW! Eco-excellence: Opel KARL ecoFLEX with only 94 g/km CO2

Opel KARL with Start/Stop system can now be ordered for 9,950 euros

Opel KARL: The new entry-level model can now be ordered in the super-economical ecoFLEX version

Small Opel KARL – huge impression: according to Auto Bild (issue 32/2015) the best model in the mini-car class shows real greatness when it comes to the environment. The new Opel entry-level model can now be ordered in the super-economical ecoFLEX version. Ideal for everyday use, the 3.68-meter long, five-door car with the Start/Stop system and three-cylinder, 55 kW/75 hp 1.0 ECOTEC engine consumes just 4.1 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions dropping from 99 to 94 grams per kilometer. The entry-level price of the especially environmentally friendly KARL variant remains under 10,000 euros at exactly 9,950 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

Opel KARL ecoFLEX: Attention to detail: Rear spoiler for better aerodynamics.

Yet the test winner is anything but a sedate economy model: its new one-liter all-aluminum engine is a member of the highly praised three-cylinder gasoline family, whose turbocharged versions in the Opel Corsa and Opel ADAM impress with outstanding running smoothness and efficiency. The engineers paid close attention to reducing noise and vibrations during the development phase with a low-resonance construction for the block, a split oil pan, the noise protected integration of the exhaust manifold in the cylinder head and a sound absorbing cam cover, which all contribute to the engine’s excellent manners.

1.0 ECOTEC: Three-cylinder engine with Start/stop system, outstanding running smoothness and efficiency.

Exceptional: Superb safety and comfort levels

Opel KARL also sets standards in this market segment in terms of space, safety and comfort: the 939 kilogram, five-door model offers room for up to five occupants and a load volume up to 1,013 liters. Apart from standard ABS, traction control TCPlus, stability control ESPPlus and Hill Start Assist (HSA), KARL can be equipped with a further safety feature highlight, Lane Departure Warning (LDW). 

This reduces the risk of accidents with the help of front camera sensors that scan the road. A cornering light function integrated in the fog lights ensures that turning maneuvers are safer for the driver and other road users. On-board comfort can be increased with optional features including a heated leather steering wheel along with heated front seats. 

Opel KARL ecoFLEX: Heated leather steering wheel along with heated front seats as option. 

The City mode (standard from Enjoy) of the speed-dependent power steering reduces steering effort in heavy city traffic at the push of a button and Park Assist prevents bumps when parking. Cruise control with speed limiter ensures driving at legal speeds.

Opel KARL ecoFLEX: IntelliLink infotainment system

From the fall of 2015, Opel KARL can be ordered with the new-generation IntelliLink infotainment system and the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar – features normally only found in higher classes. So Opel’s entry-level model will also raise the bar for connectivity in the mini-car segment as all its variants become fully-fledged members of the Opel model portfolio. 

!NEW! Rallye Deutschland: Opel Teams Join World’s Rallye Elite

• ADAC Opel Rallye Cup again at German round of World Rallye Championship
• ADAM teams expect four intense days with chance at double points
• ADAC Opel Rallye Junior team celebrates European Championship with fans

Junior European Champion: Emil Bergkvist and his Opel ADAM R2 from the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team.

The ADAC Rallye Deutschland from August 20 – 23, 2015 is a journey into a new dimension for many teams in the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup. This round of the FIA ERC, where the Opel teams again race in two complete stages, impresses with its commanding itinerary. It is even more formidable than last year: instead of 18 there are 20 special stages and the overall distance has increased to a mighty 1,285 kilometers.

Rallye Deutschland: The World Championship round on home turf is a highlight for the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup teams

So the teams face a strenuous and exciting week when they set off on Tuesday to meticulously prepare their pace notes for the rallye. As usual, the cars will leave the service park in Trier to head to the special stages, which follow demanding asphalt tracks through the idyllic Moselle region as well as the Baumholder military range with its notorious Panzerplatte and the legendary Gina jump. At 45 kilometers, the Panzerplatte Long stage that will be run twice on Saturday is by far the longest in the entire Cup season. Directly before this super stage, the participants complete three spectator-friendly sprints of 2.9 kilometers on the Arena Panzerplatte circuit track that already attracted thousands of rallye fans last year. In addition to racing excitement, fans can look forward to great entertainment: from 2 p.m. on Saturday, the German band Revolverheld will rev things up even more.

Jump “Gina“: The Rallye Deutschland special stages follow demanding asphalt tracks through the idyllic Moselle region as well as the Baumholder military range

The first highlight is the show start at the Porta Nigra in Trier on Thursday evening. The Cup teams will tackle the first leg with eight special stages on Friday. The second leg with twelve special stages (the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup will leave out stage 17 “Bosenberg”) goes from early Saturday to Sunday mid-day. Full points and full prize money will be awarded for both parts of the rallye. At the end of the second leg, at the ADAC Rallye Deutschland finish line, the teams will have completed almost 340 stage kilometers – about three times as much as at a “normal” race in the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup. Those who make it will drive over the finish ramp in front of the Porta Nigra on Sunday afternoon.

Experience has shown that not only the world elite promise an absolutely first-class show with their spectacular World Rallye cars, the Opel ADAM Cup cars are also real attention-getters in every race and have already caused quite a sensation in the rallye world.

Top favorite: Last year’s winner Marijan Griebel has a good shot at the Division 5 class victory, and he can also capture second place in the European Championship at the FIA ERC Junior season-finale Barum Rallye in the Czech Republic the last weekend in August.

Not to mention the around 190 hp ADAM R2 with which Opel works drivers Marijan Griebel (26, from Hahnweiler) and Emil Bergkvist (21, from Torsåker) from the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior team have stirred up the FIA ERC Junior this season. Quite literally – at the Rally Estonia in mid-July, the young Swede Bergkvist already won the title before the season’s end. His German team colleague Griebel, last year’s ADAC Rallye Deutschland winner and one of the top favorites in Division 5, has a good shot at taking second place in the European Championship at the FIA ERC Junior season-finale Barum Rallye in the Czech Republic the last weekend in August. All the more reason the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior team drivers can hardly wait to perform for German rallye fans as European champions at the home race.

!NEW! Opel Delights Visitors of 43rd Oldtimer Grand Prix

Historic racing cars from Rüsselsheim make the fans’ hearts beat faster 

The visitors of the Opel exhibition at the 43rd Oldtimer Grand Prix and the fans along the Nürburgring race circuit really got their money’s worth. Numerous Opel legends from the company’s 115 years of motorsport history were exhibited and thundered round the track on their demonstration laps.

Opel Motorsport legends: The renowned cars from Opel’s long history in circuit and rallye racing were on show and in action at the Nürburgring.

Opel CFO Michael Lohscheller also visited the Nürburgring and got behind the wheel of the Opel Manta A "24 hours Spa-Francorchamps" from 1974 for a lap. “The visitors are really enthusiastic when they see our racing circuit and rallye legends. This show of pure joy is something that will serve as additional motivation back in the office. Our brand really has deep roots in the population. This is even more proof that our ambition of being approachable, exciting and German is absolutely right,” said Lohscheller.

The Opel racing cars from all eras reminded some of the visitors of their own youth when Opel cars made rallye and racing circuit history. The ‘Black Widow’, a Rekord C touring car with 150 hp, gave many a Porsche driver a fright in the 1960s when the middle class car, normally reserved for families, suddenly appeared in the rear view mirror. The Ascona A designed for the Rallye World Championship was also a real winner and gave Opel its first ever win in a world championship round; Le Mans winner Joachim Winkelhock was behind the wheel at the Oldie GP and showed that he still has the special touch. The black and yellow Kadett C GT/E Coupé driven by legendary duo Walter Röhrl and Jochen Berger when they finished fourth at the 1976 Rallye Monte Carlo was also present. The car was nicknamed the ‘moral winner’ because it could only be beaten by three Lancia Stratos racing prototypes.

The equally impressive 1914 Green Monster, the biggest racing car ever built by Opel with a 12.3-liter four-cylinder engine with four-valve technology, was the center of attention at the exhibition in the paddock. The ADAM R2, the latest successful example of Opel’s motorsports pedigree, was also on show. Three weeks ago, Emil Bergkvist and co-driver Joakim Sjöberg steered the 190 hp rallye version of the lifestyle pocket rocket to FIA ERC Junior glory.

The Opel motorsports legends thundered around the track during the traditional demonstration laps on Saturday. A total of 11 cars left the marquee set up in the new paddock and were treated to enthusiastic applause from the thousands of fans lining the Nürburgring Grand Prix track.

!NEW! Cooperative Highly Automated Driving: Opel Partners “Ko-HAF” Research Initiative

• Safety first: Communication between the “Ko-HAF”-safety server and the car
• Driving on the Autobahn: Opel will build a prototype for highly automated driving

Prototype planned: Opel will build a prototype that can display the essential functions of cooperative highly automated driving on the Autobahn.

Any driver who spends a lot of time in the car often wonders if this time could be used more efficiently, for example, by reading the newspaper, doing emails, or simply enjoying the ride. Cars that drive automatically, which do not require permanent control from the driver, would make such dreams reality.

Among the major challenges to automated driving are the highly detailed, computerized maps (so that the car knows exactly about the road it is driving down) and the process of disengaging the car from the automated driving condition, thus returning control to the driver.

These are two areas of automated driving being studied intensively by Opel in “Ko-HAF – Kooperatives hochautomatisiertes Fahren”, a German project researching cooperative highly automated driving.

Experts estimate that it takes about ten seconds for a human being to turn his attention from another activity to driving. A car that drives automatically must therefore be able to recognize the driving environment and assess the traffic situation within that time-period.

In order to make an accurate assessment, the car also needs significantly more information that it can obtain from its sensors and the map of the onboard navigation system.

This is where “Ko-HAF” and Opel come in with their research into a back-end solution called the Safety Server. In “Ko-HAF”, cars communicate with the Safety Server, supplying data such as presence and quality of lane markings or objects on the road from their own onboard sensors. The Safety Server processes this information and then provides the cars with a forward-looking digital map, which the cars need for highly automated driving.

Opel is working especially on the communication between server and car – e.g. designing the server-architecture, defining the interfaces and implementing the communication protocols.

Opel’s second area of focus concerns the driver’s actions. The company’s engineers are developing software and a system of sensors to detect and categorize the driver’s actions while the car is driving automatically.

In order to predict how the driver might react when he or she must retake control, the correlation between driving situations and the driver’s actions inside the car is of special interest.

An additional core-task is the development of a self-localization process for the vehicle. Opel is designing algorithms for visual mapping and localization which are then merged with information from back-end and onboard maps, movement sensors and the Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS).

Opel will build a prototype that can display the essential functions of cooperative highly automated driving on the Autobahn, i.e. automatically entering the Autobahn and merging with the traffic, driving on the Autobahn including over-taking maneuvers, and finally exiting the Autobahn automatically.

Initially Opel will test and validate the prototype hardware and the highly automated driving functionality on a proving ground. Testing will continue on public roads as soon as the prototype technology has reached a sufficiently advanced stage.

The “Ko-HAF” research initiative began in June 2015 and will run until November 2018. The project has a budget totaling 36.3 million euros and is supported by the Federal Ministry for Economy and Energy.

!NEW! Five door Corsa Sport Joins Opel’s line up in South Africa

A resurgent Opel continues with its new product offensive which began locally in January this year with the introduction of the Opel ADAM and the Opel Corsa in February and the Opel Mokka in March. The next addition to the new Germans is a derivative of the new Opel Corsa, a 5 door 110 kW hatchback aimed at the enthusiastic driver.

New Opel Corsa Sport 1.4 T - 5 door hatchback with 110 kW 

The Corsa Sport slots in just above three-cylinder 1.0 Litre turbocharged Cosmo model and rounds off a Corsa line-up of five models; namely the 1.0T Cosmo, 1.0T ecoFLEX Enjoy, 1.0T Essentia and 1.4 six speed Automatic. The new model is a dynamic and versatile hatch equipped with a 1.4 turbo-charged ecoTEC engine boasting a 110 kW @5000 RPM and 220 Nm of torque @3 000 RPM. The 1.4 Turbo weighs just 118 kg and features a cast iron block and aluminium cylinder head.

“Opel’s engineers have done an outstanding job with Corsa Sport. It’s an exciting vehicle which looks good without being over the top and of course the driving dynamics exhibit the key characteristics we have come to expect of all our new Germans,” said Christopher Cradock, Opel Brand Manager.

New State of the Art Drivetrain

The Corsa 1.4T Sport is equipped with the latest engine from Opel’s ecoTEC family of small petrol engines. Combining both performance and efficiency, the engine propels the Corsa from a standing start to 0-100 km/h in 9.6 seconds, with a top speed of 204 km/h. The 1.4T Sport’s tested fuel consumption is consumption 7.4 litres per 100 kilometres (urban cycle); 5.1 litres (extra urban) and 5.9 litres per 100 kilometres on the combined cycle.

Some of the engine’s notable features include 16 valve cylinder head with natrium cooled exhaust valves which allow for increased airflow, optimized inlet port, reduced component temperatures thereby increasing performance.

Another key feature of this engine is Double CamPhaser (D – CVCP) for increased airflow and optimized valve timing. This feature allows for reduced fuel consumption and increased performance.

Furthermore as is the trend with Opel for downsizing engines, turbocharging is used to create low end torque enabling longer ratios to reduce fuel consumption and increase driver enjoyment.

Fuel consumption is further reduced by optimizing oil pressure, reducing friction and controlling engine heat up and cooling.

The Corsa Sport comes with a six speed manual transmission with synchronised gears, including reverse, with short shift travel. The gearbox has a cable shift system for improved shiftability, sync reverse gear, hydraulic clutch actuation, and low viscosity oil.

DYNAMIC HANDLING AND PERFORMANCE

To further optimize the ride and handling performance of the Corsa, the front suspension geometry has been optimized via changes on the front knuckle to improve vehicle roll behaviour, steering response and understeer behaviour. The vehicle has a lower centre of gravity, and front spring rates adapted to axle loads to improve vehicle ride and pitch behaviour.

The changes are engineered to offer a significant improvement in ride, more stable and safe handling, better steering feel and precision as well as an improved NVH-behaviour.

To further improve refinement, the new Corsa has a Neutral Torque Axis (NTA) engine mounting system with two load carrying mounts to the body and one torque mount attached to the sub frame. This system contributes to the driving comfort, improves fuel economy since idle can be lowered, has excellent idle shake insulation performance and improves the NVH behaviour.

SPORTY LOOK AND REVOLUTIONARY INTERIOR DESIGN

The 2015 Corsa Sport comes with subtle OPC_Line Kit add-ons for customers who want to show their sporty ambitions. The standard kit includes front and rear bumper extensions, side rocker mouldings, sporty exhaust tip, and carbon look outside rear view mirror covers.

Opel Corsa Sport with OPC_Line Kit: front and rear bumper extensions, side rocker mouldings, sporty exhaust tip, and carbon look outside rear view mirror covers.

Sculptural harmonious surfaces and graceful flowing lines are key elements in the design of the new Corsa’s interior.

The sculptural wing-shaped instrument panel (IP) top-pad is enhanced by the presence of an all new leather covered flat bottom sport steering wheel with silver bezel, alloy sports pedals, leather gear shift knob from the Corsa OPC. OPC Handbrake lever and jet black leather.

The cloth covered Moonray Sports seats are designed for comfort and support during spirited driving with a pattern that adds to the ambience of the cabin.

Additional features include 17 inch Dark Titanium wheels. A comprehensive range of 15 exterior colours, 5 solid and 10 metallic.

DEMOCRATISING TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY

When it was launched, the 5th generation Corsa emphasised affordability and value for money by bringing inspiring design, innovating technology and an engaging drive to the youth. The Corsa Sport benefits from all the features found in this range which adds to the appeal of the vehicle as a high performance vehicle for young people with standard driver assistance, safety and infotainment features.

The comprehensive list of safety features found standard in the Corsa Sport includes:

An Electronic Stability Control (ESC) system which is very progressive in operation. It reacts almost imperceptibly for the driver (sensitive ESC), according to the driving situation, thus avoiding negative effects on the dynamics as much as possible

Traction Control (TC) is standard in the Electronic Stability Control (ESC). The primary goal of Traction Control is to prevent wheel slip, which is what happens when a tyre freely moves against a road surface without gaining traction. Traction Control prevents wheels that are slipping from spinning during acceleration

Straight line Stability (SLS) and Brake Assist System (BAS), is a braking technology that increases braking pressure in an emergency situation. BAS is designed to give the driver a higher deceleration gain than would be possible from the regular brake system booster.

The ESP integrated BAS is a first rate technology to fulfil the coming regulations for pedestrian protection. Even unskilled drivers can achieve shorter braking distances under all circumstances.

Additional Driver Assistance features included as part of the option pack:

The new Corsa not only offers a new driving experience with improved comfort and precision thanks to its new chassis and steering systems – it also makes driving easier and safer with advanced assistance systems. Particularly in hectic city driving conditions, they help the driver in a variety of ways.

At the touch of a button, the standard-fitment City Mode increases power assistance at lower speeds, which is particularly useful when manoeuvring in congested urban areas.

Many of the Corsa Sport’s driver assistance systems are unrivalled in its class. These include 25 Watt Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering light control and LED daytime running lights. The static cornering lights are triggered when the indicators are activated or when reverse gear is selected, providing added illumination of corners and obstacles.

This impressive system, that so far has only been available in vehicles in higher segments, offers improved lighting range, brightness and colour intensity – a decisive plus for visibility and safety. In addition, it offers lower power consumption and a much longer service life. The Bi-xenon headlights are mated to an auto-dimming interior mirror, rain-sensing wipers and automatic headlight control.

Opel’s new-generation Advanced Park Assist 2 (APA2), available as an option on Enjoy, Cosmo derivatives and Sport, identifies suitable parking spaces under 30 km/h and automatically parks the vehicle, without the driver touching the wheel. The ultrasonic sensor-based system, which uses front and rear parking sensors and a rear-view camera, measures parallel or perpendicular parking spots, calculates the vehicle’s trajectory and automatically steers the Corsa into a space. The driver just controls acceleration, deceleration and gear selection.

APA2 partners with Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA), which also uses the ultrasonic sensors to warn the driver of an imminent collision when changing lanes. The sensors have a range of three metres to the left and right of the car, enabling them to detect objects or other vehicles in the driver’s blind spot. Whenever another vehicle comes within range of the sensors, a warning LED illuminates in the relevant exterior door mirror. Impressively, the system is active up to 140 km/h.

The Corsa Sport has six airbags and a 5 Star NCAP safety.

More connectivity and convenience for meaningful innovation

• Opel’s award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system, which brings the connected world of smartphones and apps into the car, is available as an option on Enjoy and Essentia models, and standard on Cosmo and Sport. IntelliLink is fully compatible with the latest Android and Apple iOS-based smartphones.

• IntelliLink has a standard seven-inch colour touchscreen and its home page provides access to five major functions: phone, audio, gallery, settings and apps. Audio streaming via Bluetooth and USB also includes Gracenote music management and identification technology.

• BringGo is IntelliLink’s navigation app. It can be easily downloaded from the phone’s app store and, once downloaded, the map data remains installed on the user’s smartphone, which means Corsa owners do not need an ongoing smartphone broadband connection to use the BringGo navigation system. BringGo solely uses the smartphone’s GPS to locate the Corsa. BringGo also provides functionality for live traffic updates, accident information, Points of Interest (POIs) and Google search.

• The Stitcher app is a useful global podcast internet radio service which lets users listen to programmes live, or after they have been broadcast. Once Stitcher is downloaded to the smartphone, Corsa owners can access more than 10 000 podcasts on demand, including radio shows and live stations from around the world, via the Corsa’s IntelliLink touchscreen.

• With access to a global network of 70 000 radio stations, the TuneIn app has the power to offer entertainment to suit the tastes of every listener. The integration of Apple iOS devices within IntelliLink also enables Siri Eyes Free voice control. This makes it possible for drivers to make calls, play music, send and receive messages and emails with received messages read out aloud, and access calendar functions like set alarms, check reminders or respond to meeting requests – all with their eyes on the road and hand on the wheel.

Model Line-up and Pricing:

Corsa 1.0T Essentia                        R 185 500

Corsa 1.0T Enjoy                             R 216 200

Corsa 1.4 Enjoy AT                         R 216 500

Corsa 1.0T Cosmo                          R 236 300

Corsa 1.4 T Sport                            R 255 200

Option Packages:

Corsa Essentia Option Pack 1: Radio with Bluetooth & USB, AC                                                      

R 12,200

Corsa Essentia Option Pack 2: IntelliLink, AC, 15” styled wheels                                                      

R 15,600

Corsa Enjoy Option Pack 1: IntelliLink                                                                                                

R 4,000

Corsa Enjoy Option Pack 2: IntelliLink, Advanced Park Assist 2                                                        

R 8,000

Corsa Cosmo and Sport Option Pack 1: Advanced Park Assist 2 and Side Blind Zone Alert    

       

R 5,000

!NEW! Opel Continues To Grow In South Africa

General Motors South Africa (GMSA) sold 4 947 vehicles, achieving a market share of 9.1%.

The locally produced products remain GMSA’s top volume runners with the Isuzu KB at 1 299, followed by Chevrolet Utility which came in at 1294 units and the Chevrolet Spark at 381. Meanwhile the new Opel line-up continues to gain momentum with encouraging performances from Corsa and Mokka.  Year to date (YTD) Opel sales volumes are up 81.8%

Opel Corsa

Opel Mokka SUV

“We are expecting to continue the upward trend with our Opel products in August as the Opel Corsa Sport is being launched this week. The Corsa Sport, which features the new 1.4 Turbo 110 kw engine, comes with high levels of content and sport orientated design cues – all with a touch of Opel heritage and with the Opel OPC line kit within a five door package,” said Brian Olson, GMSA Vice President for Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing.

New Opel Corsa Sport with OPC line kit and with the new 1.4 Turbo 110 kw engine

Total industry sales for new vehicles came in at 54 112 units for July down 6.1% for the same period last year. According to the National Automobile Association of South Africa (Naamsa) it is the largest year to date monthly decline.

!NEW! All-New Opel Astra K: Outstanding Aerodynamics for Best Efficiency

• Most streamlined Astra ever: exemplary drag coefficient of 0.285
• Clever design: more compact dimensions reduce drag
• Attention to detail: rear spoiler, C-pillar and underbody optimized
• Increased efficiency: great aerodynamics meet latest generation engines 

Increase in efficiency: All-New Opel Astra K – great aerodynamics meet latest generation engines.

Lighter, more frugal and more agile – the new Opel Astra K represents a quantum leap in the development and targets maximum efficiency. Its design and vehicle architecture also set standards in aerodynamics and continue a traditional Opel strength – when the Kadett E GSi was introduced in 1984 it was the most streamlined hatchback in the world with a cd value of 0.30. Outstanding aerodynamics are closely linked to economical fuel consumption and climate-friendly CO2-emissions – another long-time Opel strength.

Most streamlined Astra ever: Exemplary drag coefficient of 0.285.

A decisive advantage of the new Astra is that it is much more compact than its predecessor is. It is around 2.5 centimeters lower and 0.5 centimeters slimmer, including the more slender wheels. But to make the vehicle as streamlined as possible, precision and attention to detail were also necessary. The engineers paid special attention to the roofline, the C-pillar and the construction of the underbody. The result speaks for itself: the new compact class Opel is amongst the elite of the most streamlined models in its class with a drag coefficient of 0.285.

In perfect shape: Opel engineers paid special attention to the roofline, the C-pillar and the construction of the underbody of the new Astra K.

“We have made the new Astra more aerodynamic than ever before. The drag coefficient values beat the best values achieved by its predecessor across the board. We gained some important knowledge from the tests we conducted in the ultra-modern wind tunnel of Stuttgart University who we have been working with for many years,” said Reiner Weidemann, Head of the Opel Aerodynamics department. “This helped us make the new Astra the most streamlined compact class car ever produced by Opel.”

Design and vehicle architecture: setting standards in aerodynamics

Clever design: The engineers decided to let the roof of the new Opel Astra K flow out gently to the rear to avoid any drag.

Leaner, smarter and more innovative than ever before – the new Astra epitomizes highest efficiency and demonstrates the next evolutionary stage of Opel’s design philosophy “Sculptural artistry meets German precision”. From an aerodynamics point of view, this means: the new Astra has a drag coefficient of 0.285 with its athletic and dynamic appearance along with the numerous measures taken above and under the outer shell. The new Astra has a total length of 4.37 meters and is roughly five centimeters shorter than its predecessor is. The height has been reduced by 2.5 centimeters to 1.48 meters and the width reduced by 0.5 centimeters to 1.81 meters. These dimensions also have a positive impact on the overall drag, with a cross sectional area of around 0.642 square meters (compared to 0.770 square meters for its predecessor), and thus on fuel efficiency.

In the wind tunnel: The delicate rear spoiler serves as an effective separation edge that cuts the airflow at the top without creating any disturbing wake turbulences.

However, the art of the exemplary aerodynamic performance is down to attention to detail. The engineers decided to let the roof flow out gently to the rear to avoid any drag. The delicate rear spoiler serves as an effective separation edge that cuts the airflow at the top without creating any disturbing wake turbulences. Even the C-pillar with its small edges was designed to split airflow more efficiently than was the case for the previous Astra, thus reducing drag.

Attention to detail: The Rear spoiler and the C-pillar of the new Opel Astra K have been optimized.

The engineers managed to achieve further improvements by overhauling the design of the underbody. Opposed to many competitors, Opel specifically decided not to look to a full underbody paneling. Instead, all parts were examined and reworked to ensure better airflow. The underside of the car now has airflow-optimized structures and battery attachment, the new rear axle now sits higher compared to the previous Astra, thus no longer providing an obstacle for the air flowing under the car. These measures all play a key part in the exemplary aerodynamics. Expressed in cold figures, the most eco-friendly version of the previous Opel Astra had a drag coefficient of 0.325. The basic version of the all-new Opel Astra has an outstanding drag coefficient of 0.285. Even the automatic diesel of the new generation with 18 inch wheels easily beats the most streamlined version of the predecessor with a drag coefficient of around 0.31. And that is not all – an even more aerodynamic and frugal ecoFlex version is planned for the future.

Double efficiency: improved aerodynamics meet latest generation engines

The conscious decision not to use a full underbody paneling also means less weight and consequently lower fuel consumption along with reduced production costs. Advantages that have a positive impact on the price – something that can be passed on to the customer.

Combined with the fact that every new Opel Astra will be propelled by an engine of the latest generation with outputs ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 147 kW/200 hp customers can look forward to a win-win-win situation. All of the new generation engines combine strong performance and economical fuel consumption with outstanding responsiveness while at the same time offering smoothness and low noise levels. For example, with the 1.0 liter turbo and Easytronic 3.0 the new Opel Astra is the most fuel-efficient and eco-friendly gasoline-engined car in its class (4.2 l/100 km in the combined cycle, 96 g CO2/km). That is efficiency à la Astra.