!NEW! Opel at Paris Motor Show 2016

• Really far: Opel Ampera-e with best electric range according to NEDC in segment
• First-class connectivity: New Opel Zafira and MOKKA X with IntelliLink and Opel OnStar
• Real off-road character: Small Opel KARL ROCKS with great SUV look
• Exclusive special model: Opel Cascada Supreme captivates with sharp design

This world premiere is simply electrifying: Opel will revolutionize electric mobility at this year’s Paris Motor Show with the Ampera-e. From October 1-16, the new electric car makes its first major appearance in hall 5-2, booth 501. The superstar of the show offers a range of over 500 kilometers (electric range, measured based on the NEDC in kilometers: >500, preliminary figures), 100 kilometers more than its rivals in the segment, and it also impressively shows how well sustainability and driving fun can create a harmonious unit. Other highlights from the Rüsselsheim-based automaker at the “Mondial de l'Automobile 2016” include the adventurous MOKKA X and the new Zafira – the fully connected lounge on wheels. Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann will also reveal two further stars of the show in the Opel KARL ROCKS and the sporty, elegant special model Opel Cascada Supreme.

“With the new Ampera-e, we continue the largest model offensive in the history of our company,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “Our show exhibit clearly shows the direction of development: the Ampera-e with its outstanding range proves that electric mobility is fully feasible for everyday use and is also lots of fun. The models Opel MOKKA X, Opel Zafira and Opel KARL ROCKS expand our portfolio with the ideal touch of adventure and individuality.”

E like extreme acceleration: Ampera-e with power of a sports car

The maximum torque of 360 Nm is responsible for the electrifying temperament of the new Opel. The performance of the electric engine is equivalent to 150 kW/204 hp. Effortless starts from a standing position (such as at traffic lights) or highway access are two of the Opel Ampera-e’s main strengths. The compact electric car covers the sprint from zero to 50 km/h in just 3.2 seconds, a value on par with sportscars. In addition, it completes mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, which is especially important for overtaking, in just 4.5 seconds (provisional figures). The Ampera-e thus performs at the same level as OPC models, Opel’s sporty spearheads.

New Opel Ampera-e offers space for up to five people and a trunk volume of 381 liters.

In addition, the efficient packaging of the large capacity batteries also enables a roomy interior providing comfortable seating for up to five passengers and trunk space comparable with that of a five-door car in the compact class. In typical Opel fashion, its generous spaciousness comes with the best in digital connectivity. The Ampera-e has the newest generation of IntelliLink infotainment, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, as well as Opel OnStar onboard (where available).

A real adventure with X Factor: Opel MOKKA X

Another shining star in Paris is the new Opel MOKKA X. The compact SUV is wider and has a more solid and masculine stance than its successful predecessor – it has everything it takes to become an absolute customer favorite. The sporty, robust SUV turns heads with its newly designed front while its interior impresses with its functional and neatly arranged instrument panel. It looks both simpler and purer, as well as sharper and more precise in its execution. MOKKA X drivers can choose between various state-of-the-art versions of the new generation of the IntelliLink infotainment system; in addition, there is top connectivity with Opel OnStar. Another one of the MOKKA X’s highlights is its superb optional adaptive 4x4 drive system with electronic, multi-disk clutch. It can seamlessly distribute power between the front and rear axle from 100:0 to 50:50. This increases safety, optimizes fuel economy and significantly boosts driving pleasure.

Lounge on wheels with top connectivity: Opel Zafira in new look

Visitors to the Opel booth can also get an up-close look at all the new Zafira’s stand-out qualities. The lounge on wheels doesn’t just rely on the tried and true qualities of its predecessor such as the Flex7 seating system, the AGR-certified ergonomic front seats (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. – Campaign for Healthier Backs), the FlexFix^® bicycle carrier and the adaptive FlexRide chassis. The new Zafira also features a new, bold exterior design and a re-designed interior with an especially spacious ambience and superb connectivity. Depending on the end device, Opel’s newest-generation IntelliLink infotainment system is compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And for the first time in this vehicle class, Opel offers the latest-generation Adaptive Forward Lighting AFL with Full LED technology as an option. This all makes the new Zafira a comfortable travelling lounge for driver and passengers.

Ready for the urban jungle: Opel KARL ROCKS

Opel unveils the KARL ROCKS in Paris as a special attraction for all urbanites. Opel’s new wild child features many characteristics of a true SUV and shares many virtues connected with this vehicle class such as an elevated seating position that enables better visibility, easier access to the cabin and an outstanding connectivity offer. Its rugged exterior features silver roof rails, robust front and rear bumpers with integrated skid plates, black front and rear wheelhouse moldings and unique 15-inch bi-color look alloy wheels. Furthermore, the new Opel KARL ROCKS maintains the unquestionable practicality of the Opel KARL with five doors, five seats, compact dimensions and a maximum trunk space over 1,000 liters up to the roof making it the ideal vehicle for a broad audience of city dwellers.

Black beauty: Opel Cascada Supreme

The new Cascada Supreme – an all-season convertible with extra flair – will also be in the spotlight at the Opel booth. Every detail and every shade of color of the special model is finely matched. Soon the four-seat convertible can be ordered either in “Pull Me Over Red”, “Summit White” or “Black Meet Kettle”. The black grille, black mirrors and the two-tone glossy-black 20-inch alloy wheels uniquely accent these three exterior colors. Inspired by the glowing red signature line of Opel‘s futuristic design study, the Opel GT Concept, the seams of the seat fabrics and the door and cockpit trims are accented in sporty red.

!NEW! Opel Ampera-e with Range of Over 500 Kilometers

• World premiere at Paris Motor Show: Ampera-e with segment-leading electric range according to NEDC

No range anxiety: New Opel Ampera-e revolutionizes electro-mobility.

This Opel is simply electrifying: The German carmaker is revolutionizing electro-mobility with its battery electric Ampera-e at Paris Motor Show. With its range of more than 500 kilometers (electric range, measured based on NEDC test cycle in kilometers: >500, preliminary figures) the exhibition star outperforms its closest segment rival currently on the road by at least 100 kilometers.

“With the new Ampera-e, we continue the largest model offensive in Opel’s history,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “The Ampera-e with its outstanding range makes electric mobility fully feasible for everyday use and also lots of fun.”

Sprinter: New Opel Ampera-e accelerates from 0 to 50 in just 3.2 seconds.

While the NEDC cycle is important to create comparability, the test cycle does not truly reflect everyday reality. In real world, factors such as road characteristics, weather conditions, driving style or additional load influence the range. Opel therefore also tested the Ampera-e approximated to the speed profile defined in the WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light-Duty Vehicles Test Procedure) driving cycle (shortened test procedure). The WLTP results are closer to real driving behavior. And the Opel Ampera-e also delivers here: Based on the development test, the engineers estimate the combined WLTP range to be more than 380 kilometers. Naturally, the range in everyday use will vary and depends on personal driving behavior and on external factors.

Apart from providing ease of mind during long journeys, the Ampera-e can also offer the feistiness of a sportscar. The performance of the electric engine is equivalent to 150 kW/204 hp (PS) thus making effortless starts from a standing position or highway access two of the Opel Ampera-e’s main strengths. The compact electric car accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.2 seconds. And as the large, 60 kWh capacity batteries are cleverly integrated in the underbody, the car also offers ample space for five passengers and a trunk with the load capacity of a five-door compact class car. Furthermore, the Ampera-e comes with Opel-typical outstanding digital connectivity thanks to OnStar and smartphone projection.

Well informed: New Opel Ampera-e with digital instrument panel and central, iPad-inspired monitor.

“Our Ampera-e is not eco-luxury, not a gadget and not just a second car. Opel is showing that electro-mobility is also achievable for a much broader audience thanks to the most innovative technology – Opel is democratizing the electric car with the Ampera-e,” said Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

!NEW! High-Tech, High-Style: All-New Holden Astra Is Coming Soon

• First Holden Astra rolls off the production line in Europe
• Special pre-order campaign sees Holden Astra pricing start at $25,312 drive away
• Advanced technology includes Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamps, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and rear view camera
• Holden Astra on sale from December 2016

All-New Holden Astra

 Holden has announced the high-tech, all-new Astra will soon arrive in Australia with customers able to get their hands on the 2016 European Car of the Year for as little as $25,312 drive away.

Rolling off Opel’s Gliwice production line for the first time, the all-new Holden Astra comes to Australia after receiving multiple awards and accolades in Europe^… thanks to its impressive blend of premium European styling, world-class driving experience and an array of high-tech features.

Holden Executive Director of Sales, Peter Keley, said the all-new Astra will be the next vehicle to be launched in Holden’s huge new product onslaught and offered the perfect combination of leading design, performance and technology with exceptional customer value.

“It’s incredibly exciting to see the first all-new Holden Astra built and ready to ship – it’s a stunning car, packed with state-of-the-art technology, and another great example of the exciting future vehicles we will be introducing over the next couple of years. Holden has committed to replacing or refreshing every single model in our line-up as part of our plan to launch 24 new models by the end of 2020,” said Mr. Keley.

“Astra’s premium European design oozes quality and style, and with Australian input and extensive global testing, you can be sure it will deliver the performance and refinement Holden has built its reputation on.

“Standout features including Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert and Active Lane Keep Assist, ensure the all-new Astra brings premium tech and polish to the segment.

 “Astra’s combination of state-of-the-art technology, style and performance, coupled with very attractive pricing, will shake-up the small-car segment and redefine what a Holden small car can be.”

ALL-NEW EUROPEAN DESIGN

Whilst the Astra name is long serving in Australia, the incoming Astra is all-new. Developed from a clean-sheet design under the watchful eye of Opel/Vauxhall’s Vice President – Design, Mark Adams, Astra exhibits the same sleek, ‘Sculptural Artistry meets German Precision’ design philosophy first introduced on the stunning Monza concept in 2013.

Focused on blending style and efficiency, Astra is built off a new vehicle architecture that facilitates up to 130kg weight reduction whilst allowing the introduction of distinct styling cues. A rear floating roof design complemented by a sports front fascia and grille that extends seamlessly into the front LED headlamp design, give Astra a strong and unmistakable road presence.

PACKED WITH STATE-OF-THE-ART TECHNOLOGY

Aside from enhancing Astra’s design, the IntelliLux LED Matrix headlamps lead the display of state-of-the-art technology packed into the ninth of the 24 new models Holden is committed to launching by 2020. Consisting of 16 individual LED segments – eight on each side of the vehicle - the new LED Matrix system works with the Holden Eye front camera to automatically adapt length and distribution of the light beam, depending on traffic situations.

Astra’s raft of high-tech features also extends into active safety.  Rear view camera is available as standard across the range, accompanied by Holden Eye forward facing camera^ facilitating key features including Forward Collision Alert, Lane Keep Assist, Automatic Emergency Braking and Side Blind Spot Alert to reduce, and in some cases avoid, collision incidents.

Equally as impressive as Astra’s exterior design is an interior that effortlessly blends style with technology, significantly reducing the number of buttons and adding an element of simplicity when compared with its predecessor.  Centered around a colour touch screen display housing the latest Holden MyLink with Apple CarPlay^® and Android^® Auto** phone projection technology, Astra boasts luxury leather-appointed, heated front seat as well as a premium heated seated wheel.

ASTRA DRIVES LIKE A HOLDEN SHOULD

Astra is equipped with a new and frugal all-aluminum, 1.4 litre ECOTEC Direct Injection turbo engine capable of producing up to 110 kW of power and 240 Nm of torque with a targeted combined fuel consumption of as little as 5.8L/100km. Customers that enjoy a sportier drive have the option of a more powerful 1.6-litre ECOTEC Direct Injection turbo engine, boasting up to 147 kW of power and a 300 Nm of torque.

Holden’s Director of Vehicle Performance, Ian Butler, said Holden and Opel identified efficiencies and similarities in customers’ expectations and vehicle usage and were able to work together to develop a common vehicle setup.

“Holden and Opel share very similar D.N.A. but we still made sure our engineers were involved in developing Astra and setting targets, right from the start of the program,” Mr. Butler said.

“We’ve engineered our own unique Australian chassis input which, when combined with the new 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre turbo petrol engine options, we’re confident will excel on the variety of road surfaces in Australia.

“Along with Spark and Colorado, Astra is another great example of how Holden is collaborating with GM engineers globally to ensure we can deliver the best vehicles to Australia and also share our expertise for the benefit of other markets.”

The high-tech all-new Holden Astra will go sale in December with customers encouraged to register their interest with dealers early, to avoid missing out.


2017 Holden Astra Feature Highlights

Astra R

• 1.4 litre turbo ECOTEC engine
• 17-inch alloy wheels
• 7-inch colour touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Rear View Camera with Rear Park Assist
• Digital Radio

Astra RS (above Astra R)

• 1.6 litre turbo ECOTEC engine
• Passive Entry Push-button Start
• Advanced Park Assist
• Side Blind Spot Alert
• Holden Eye forward facing camera with:
  • Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB)
  • Forward Collision Alert
  • Lane Keep Assist

Astra RS-V (above Astra R)

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• Leather-appointed, front heated seats
• Heated Steering Wheel
• 8-inch colour touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Embedded satellite navigation
• LED tail lamps
• Dual zone climate control

 Astra has received numerous awards including:

• 2016 European Car of the Year
• 2015 Golden Steering Wheel
• UK Car of the Year
• 2015 Scottish Car of the Year
• Auto Express: Compact Family Car of the Year 2016
• What Car?: Car of the Year 2016 - Best Family Car
• Autocar: 2016 Game Changer
• Fleet News Awards: Best Lower Medium Car

!NEW! Opel Astra Named as South African Car of the Year Finalist

 Opel Astra, the reigning European Car of the Year, has been selected as a finalist for the 2017 Wesbank South African Car of the Year (COTY) competition. This is the second successive year in which an Opel has been named COTY finalist in South Africa after Opel ADAM and Opel Corsa were voted as finalists last year.

Opel Astra which was launched in South Africa in April this year has received great accolades from local as well as international media. Packed with segment leading safety, infotainment and driver aid technology, the Opel Astra is a game changer in the mid-size hatchback segment giving buyers access to technology usually reserved for luxury vehicles.

“We’ve won the big European prize and it would be a real honour to add the local trophy to our cabinet,” commented Brian Olson, vice president vehicle sales, service, and marketing GM Sub-Saharan Africa. “There’s no doubt that Europe’s top automotive communicators found the Astra to be the best of the best and we hope that evaluators from the South African Guild of Motoring Journalists reach the same conclusion. Local customers have certainly recognized the Astra as the best in its class, so far demand has far outstripped supply with the new Astra achieving its best market share in 20 years”

Of course, COTY success is not new to the Opel brand, both here and abroad. In 1985 a previous Astra generation was the European COTY, while on the local front Opel products were chosen by the SAGMJ evaluators as their benchmark car in 1991, 1994 and 1995.

Past and present Opel Astra models clearly have got what it takes to win. The current Opel Astra has averaged close to 100 units a month since launch, and holds about 10 percent of the C-segment hatchback market share, April to August.

The SAGMJ COTY jury will evaluate the Opel Astra and the other finalists in early February 2017, with the winner announced on 15 March 2017.

!NEW! Opel Zafira Wins “autonis” Design Prize

• “Best design newcomer of 2016”: Opel Zafira triumphs in van category
• “Cost-effectiveness star”: Opel wins “Car Connectivity Award”
• Huge interest: 50,800 readers of auto motor und sport and CHIP have voted

New Opel Zafira received 36.3 percent of the votes and won its category comfortably

autonis – Best design newcomer of 2016: Karim Giordimaina (center), Director Interior Design, accepted the award for the new Opel Zafira from auto motor und sport editor-in-chief Jens Katemann (left) and his deputy Birgit Priemer

New Opel Zafira is already a star despite only having celebrated its start of regular production recently. Opel’s traveling lounge impressed the readers of magazine auto motor und sport and won the readers’ choice award “autonis – Best design newcomer of 2016”. 36.3 percent of the 18,300 auto motor und sport readers who participated in the online vote chose the Zafira, making it the most beautiful van in its class. Furthermore, Opel was the “Cost-effectiveness Star”, thus winning the “Car Connectivity Award” presented by auto motor und sport and computer magazine CHIP.

“Zafira’s success is further confirmation for our design philosophy ‘sculptural artistry meets German precision’,” said Karim Giordimaina, Director Interior Design at the award ceremony in Stuttgart on Thursday evening. “I am especially happy that the completely redesigned instrument panel and simplified cockpit are so well received.” Elegant interior design of the brilliantly connected Opel traveling lounge allows the driver and passengers a perfect forward visibility. All important functions such as display and operating buttons can easily be reached by the driver.

Most important newcomers of the last twelve months are eligible in the autonis awards. In total, the readers can choose between 115 passenger car models in ten different categories. The rules are simple: Every participant has four votes – two for positive and two for negative scores. The results are made up of these scores. If, for example 20 percent vote for model A as the car with the best design and five percent decide that the same model is a complete flop it gets an overall score of 15. The Zafira achieved a positive score of 36.3 whereas its closest rival came in well adrift with a score of 17.4.

Popular: Opel offer high-tech at low prices

Elsewhere, auto motor und sport and CHIP asked their readers to cast their votes for the third time. 80 potential winners and many exciting products were divided into eleven categories. The initiators of the “Car Connectivity Awards” decided to create a new category for this year’s edition – the “Cost-effectiveness star”. Around 32,500 readers and users of online media came to the result that Opel leads the way in this category and offers innovative technology at a reasonable price.

Cost-effectiveness star: auto motor und sport editor Dirk Gulde (left) and CHIP Magazin editor-in-chief Josef Reitberger (right) present the “Car Connectivity Award” to Dr. Peter Heitkämper (center), Senior Manager Infotainment & Telematics at Opel.

“Large number of participants shows just how important connectivity has become for car owners,” said Dr. Peter Heitkämper, Senior Manager Infotainment & Telematics at Opel on the occasion of the award ceremony held in Stuttgart. “Award confirms our approach of offering state-of-the-art technologies such as IntelliLink infotainment systems and our personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar at fair prices, thus making them available to a broad audience.”

Fully connected: Latest generation Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto and enables comprehensive access to numerous smartphone functions.

Latest generation Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink, which comes as standard as of the Edition trim level in the new Opel MOKKA X for example, is compatible with Apple CarPlay (Apple iOS 8 / iPhone 5 or higher) and Android Auto (as of Android 5.0 Lollipop) and enables comprehensive access to numerous smartphone functions. Furthermore, the optional personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar is available. It turns Opel vehicles into entertainment hotspots.

!NEW! Opel Cascada Supreme: Convertible for All Seasons with Extra Flair

• Black beauty: 20-inch two-tone wheels, grille and exterior mirrors all in black
• Haute couture: Sporty seams highlight the cockpit, steering wheel and seats
• World premiere: Debut at Paris Motor Show

Haute couture: New Opel Cascada Supreme is the convertible with that certain something.

New special edition of the Opel Cascada is for customers who want extra flair from their all-season convertible. Every detail and every shade of color of the Opel Cascada Supreme is finely matched. As of November, the four-seat convertible can be ordered either in Pull Me Over Red, Summit White or Black Meet Kettle. These three exterior colors are uniquely accented by the black grille, the black mirrors and the two-tone glossy-black 20-inch alloy wheels. In order to underline these unique features, the fog-lamp housings and the crossbar of the Opel logo are body colored. The black Acoustic roof opens in only 17 seconds at speeds up to 50 km/h and does its name every justice, creating a quiet, refined interior atmosphere even at higher speeds. Convertible fans can soon admire the Opel Cascada Supreme in Paris, where it will celebrate its world premiere at the Mondial de l’Automobile (October 1-16).

Good looking from every angle: Exclusive special edition Opel Cascada Supreme.

The attention to detail continues inside the new Cascada Supreme. Inspired by the glowing red signature line of Opel‘s futuristic design study, the Opel GT Concept, the seams of the seat fabrics and the door and cockpit trims are accented in sporty red. The well-tailored seams on the steering wheel, the center console and the shift lever are in matching black, while the inserts in the instrument panel are premium finished in piano black laquer. Heated AGR ergonomic seats in Siena -leather and a three-spoke steering wheel are optionally available. Prices for the Opel Cascada Supreme will be published later.

!NEW! Range over 400 Kilometers: New Opel Ampera-e Revolutionizes Electro-Mobility

• Best in class: At least 25 percent more range than the closest competitor
• Sprinter: Accelerates from 0 to 50 in just 3.2 seconds
• Exhibition star: World premiere at the Paris Motor Show on September 29

Opel Ampera-e will finally eradicate the biggest downside of an electric car for everyone – range anxiety. In accordance with the New European Driving Cycle (NEDC, the current standard for range comparisons between different vehicles) the new e‑car from Rüsselsheim can clear the magical 400 kilometer barrier by a considerable margin without recharging (purely electrical range measured based on the NEDC in km: >400; provisional figure). This makes Opel’s new electric compact model by far the best in its segment. In comparison, the BMW i3, even equipped with the optional large 33 kWh battery can only cover 300 kilometers in the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle), the Nissan Leaf manages 250 kilometers, the Renault Zoe 240 kilometers and the VW e-Golf 190 kilometers. With at least 25 percent more range than its closest competitor, the Opel Ampera-e revolutionizes electro-mobility. Naturally, the maximum range in everyday use deviates from the NEDC values. In practice, factors such as road characteristics, weather conditions, driving style or additional load influence the range. However, the Ampera-e can effortlessly cover more than 300 kilometers even under average everyday conditions. Opel’s newcomer will celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (Public days: October 1 to 16) in Hall 5-2 (booth 501).

Best in class: Opel Ampera-e boasts at least 25 percent more range than the closest competitor

“In the Ampera-e we will bring an electric car suitable for everyday use to the market. It delivers an extensive range and will be offered as of spring next year already. Opel Ampera-e is not eco-luxury, not a gadget and not a pure second car. Opel is showing that electro-mobility is also achievable for a much broader audience thanks to the most innovative technology – Opel is democratizing the electric car with the Ampera-e,” said an enthusiastic Opel CEO Dr. Karl‑Thomas Neumann.

However, the 4.17 meter long Ampera-e not only impresses with its outstanding range. It also offers space for up to five people and a trunk volume of 381 liters, which is clearly above average for cars of a similar overall length. This generous spaciousness is made possible by the clever integration of the ten battery modules. The entire package is located in the underbody and is tailored to the contours of the vehicle. This means that no space is wasted. The battery consisting of 288 lithium-ion cells and a capacity of 60 kWh was developed in cooperation with LG Chem.

Driving pleasure: First a sprint then energy recuperation

The Opel Ampera-e excites with its acceleration that is on par with sportscars. The maximum torque of 360 Nm is responsible for the electrifying temperament of the Opel newcomer. Effortless starts from a standing position (such as at traffic lights) or highway access are two of the Opel Ampera-e’s main strengths. The compact car accelerates from 0 to 50 km/h in 3.2 seconds, mid-range acceleration from 80 to 120 km/h, which is especially important for overtaking, is successfully completed in 4.5 seconds (preliminary figures). Top speed is electronically limited to 150 km/h for the benefit for the overall range. The performance of the electric engine is equivalent to 150 kW/204 hp.

But the Ampera-e has even more to offer: the revolutionary electric car allows casual and almost silent cruising while also being able to recharge the batteries when in motion. To do so, the driver just needs to ease off the accelerator in the normal “Drive” mode. The Ampera-e recuperates automatically in overrun and wins back energy from the electric motor that doubles as a generator. The motor’s braking effect is increased when the driver switches to “Low” mode, thus also increasing recuperation. Furthermore, the driver can switch to “Regen on Demand” for maximum energy recuperation via a paddle at the back of the steering wheel. The drag torque of the motor is so high in “Low/Regen on Demand” modes that the brake pedal does not need to be applied to reduce speed to a full stop in normal traffic. The Ampera-e can thus safely be controlled via the accelerator (One Pedal Driving). Obviously, the brake pedal still needs to be applied in case of emergency. Initial vehicle simulation models show that drivers can increase the range by up to five percent compared to “Drive” mode when applying “One Pedal Driving” with the corresponding full recuperation when in dense city stop-and-go traffic.

Fully connected: With Opel OnStar and smartphone integration

Outstanding digital connectivity is an integral part of a sustainable concept. Opel Ampera-e has both latest generation IntelliLink infotainment and Opel OnStar on board – the award‑winning connectivity and service assistant offers a powerful Wi-Fi hotspot for up to seven devices (depending on the market). The Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible IntelliLink systems bring the world of smartphones into the Ampera-e, thus allowing passengers complete access to their favorite music or the possibility of streaming movies.

!NEW! Opel KARL ROCKS: SUV Makeover for Opel’s Entry Level Model

• SUV-inspired: Raised ride height and rugged body parts for the urban jungle
• Extrovert: The wild Opel KARL with expressive exterior is perfect fit for individualists
• Connected: Opel OnStar and Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink available
• In the spotlight: Opel KARL ROCKS to celebrate world premiere at Paris Motor Show

Clear line: New Opel KARL ROCKS has five doors and room for up to five people.

Are you looking for a small car that has the stylish looks and upmarket features of a much bigger and often much pricier vehicle? Or are you looking for a mini car that can handle the daily challenges of the urban jungle while simultaneously dazzling onlookers with its trendy SUV look and feel? If this is the case, the new Opel KARL ROCKS should appeal to you.

Breath of fresh air: New Opel KARL ROCKS comes with a raised ride height and the appearance of a small SUV.

The new car, which is set to celebrate its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (Booth 501 in Hall 5-2; October 1-16), bears a strong resemblance to a true SUV and shares many virtues connected with this vehicle class such as an elevated seating position that enables better visibility and easier access to the cabin or an outstanding connectivity offer. Furthermore, the new Opel KARL ROCKS maintains the unquestionable practicality of the Opel KARL with five doors, five seats, compact dimensions and a maximum trunk space over 1,000 liters up to the roof making it the ideal vehicle for a broad audience of city dwellers. Like Opel KARL, the rocking version will thus be big on everything – except size and price.

Small rock star: Opel KARL with an SUV-inspired appearance has also been give the surname ROCKS.

Clever design tweaks set the Opel KARL ROCKS, available for order from the end of the year, apart from most of its A-segment rivals and in fact also from its tamer sibling. The functional silver roof rails, rugged front and rear bumpers with integrated skid pads (the former also including fog light), front and rear wheelhouse moldings and unique 15-inch bi-color look alloy wheels blend in perfectly with typical Opel design cues such as the Opel blade that sweeps dynamically up towards the rear. Combined with the sloping roofline this creates a dynamic, sporty appearance that links the Opel KARL ROCKS to the Opel KARL while simultaneously giving it a distinct rugged look.

Distinct: The unique 15-inch bi-color alloy wheels match the robust appearance of the Opel KARL ROCKS perfectly.

The car’s off-road character and outgoing personality are further emphasized by an 18-mm increase in ride height enabling better visibility in dense urban traffic or when admiring the view while cruising along country roads. The raised ride height also brings further advantages with it – Opel KARL ROCKS can also venture off tarmacked roads and negotiate uneven surfaces better. Furthermore, the 18-mm increase facilitates ingress and egress.

Nice view: New KARL ROCKS with distinctive, SUV-style rear bumpers, a roof railing and raised ride height.

The outdoor atmosphere created by the exterior design continues on the inside of the car with the unique “Favo” fabric upholstery for the seats. The design is reminiscent of honeycomb and exclusively available for the Opel KARL ROCKS. Elsewhere, front door sill plates and the high gloss frame for the standard Radio R 300 or the optional Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink system, which brings the world of smartphones to the Opel KARL ROCKS via Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and enables navigation via Apple Maps or Google Maps, add to the new level of sophistication. Alternatively, Navi 4.0 IntelliLink offers an integrated navigation system. The connectivity offering of the Opel KARL ROCKS is rounded off by the availability of Opel’s personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, making it and its tamer sibling the best connected mini cars on the market.

However, Opel KARL ROCKS has much more to offer than its enticing looks and stylish interior – it is also just a practical as the Opel KARL. Five doors guarantee easy access to the front and rear seats while the five seats ensure that even families can enjoy Opel’s stylish mini car with SUV flair. And when needed, the rear seats, with a standard 40/60 folding split, can be folded down completely giving the Opel KARL ROCKS an impressive total trunk space of 1,013 liters up to the roof.

Furthermore, Opel’s wild child comes with all of the safety and comfort features available in the regular Opel KARL. City mode reduces steering effort at the push of a button (from Enjoy), greatly facilitating maneuvering in heavy city traffic. Park Assist is also available and assists the driver during parking by issuing an acoustic warning as the car approaches obstacles when reversing. Cruise control with speed limiter regulates driving speeds, which is extremely helpful in complicated urban traffic and in residential areas with a 30 km/h speed limit.

!NEW! Bold Style: New Opel Astra with OPC Line Sport Pack

Dynamic OPC Line Sport Pack now available for “Car of the Year 2016“

Athletic, compact, efficient and extremely agile: OPC Line Sport Pack can now be ordered to sharpen the Opel Astra’s attractive contours.

Athletic, compact, efficient and extremely agile – the youngest Opel Astra generation shows off what it’s got. The “Car of the Year 2016” impresses with its dynamic, slim body. Now the five-door model is available in an even bolder look: the optional OPC Line Sport Pack can be ordered to sharpen the Astra’s attractive contours.

Sporty, flowing design: New OPC Line Sport Pack gives the Opel Astra an even racier look.

The front apron in OPC Line style gives the Astra an even stronger presence and extra-low stance. The prominent cutouts in place of the fog lamps to the left and right below the headlamps emphasize the Astra’s confident look. Their horizontal lamella inserts take up the grille’s new design and carry it from the center out to the sides. The sporty uniform line flows around the car into the bold side sills. While the rear of the series production version of the current Astra generation already has a low, wide and athletic stance, the OPC Line Sport Pack’s rear apron accentuates this even more. The license plate in the sculpted, voluminous bumper is framed by pronounced swage lines. And the lower tail lights are no longer horizontal, now forming exclamation points as vertical lighting lines on the car’s edges. This all gives the rear a more muscular appearance.

“With state-of-the-art technologies and lively engines, the youngest Astra generation stands for pure driving fun. Our OPC Line Sport Pack is perfect for those who want to underline these qualities with an especially sporty look,” says Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales and Aftersales at Opel.

Eye-catcher: Prominent swage lines in the remodeled bumper and tail lights as vertical lighting lines set exclamation points on the Opel Astra’s rear styling.

The front apron, side sills and rear apron lip of the OPC Line Sport Pack are always color-coded. Customers can choose from six metallic colors (Sovereign Silver, Mineral Black, Deep Sky Blue, Dark Caramel, Cosmic Grey, Emerald Green) as well as two brilliant lacquers (Summit White, Absolute Red). The Pack, that gives the five-door Astra in Active, Dynamic and INNOVATION trims levels that extra touch of sportiness, can now be ordered for €1,150 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

!NEW! Already Over 250,000 Orders for New Opel Astra

• Compact class darling: Youngest Astra generation winning over experts and customers
• Compact class leader: Innovative technologies such as Matrix lighting and Opel OnStar

Successful duo: No matter whether as a Sports Tourer or a hatchback – New Astra is extremely popular

“Golden Steering Wheel” winner, “Most Sensible Car” and ultimately “Car of the Year 2016” – since its premiere last year, the new Opel Astra has been winning over experts and the public alike. But not only them: customers also love the youngest generation of the compact class success story. To date, already more than 250,000 orders have been received across Europe for the Astra five-door and Sports Tourer variants.

Car of the Year 2016: New Opel Astra impresses with technical innovations, efficiency and a completely new lightweight vehicle architecture.

“Lighter, more agile and with top technologies that make driving more relaxed – this is our new Astra,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “We promised a big hit in the compact class – and we kept our promise. With a host of innovations otherwise rarely found in this segment, the youngest generation of the Astra and Astra Sports Tourer is again a bestseller.”

Both of the current Astra five-door and Sports Tourer variants are based on a completely new lightweight vehicle architecture that has trimmed up to 200 kilograms off the car’s weight. Powerful new engines deliver outstanding efficiency and lots of driving fun. The Astra offers superb connectivity with state-of-the-art smartphone integration and the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar with a powerful Wi-Fi Hotspot for up to seven mobile devices (depending on market).

It also continues the Opel tradition of making innovative technologies and features from higher classes available to a broad customer base. Opel introduced the trendsetting Adaptive Matrix light IntelliLux LED into the compact class in the new Astra.

It enables driving outside the city with constant glare-free high beam lighting, thus increasing active safety for all road users as well as driving comfort for the Astra driver. 

Permanent high beam: Opel IntelliLux LED Matrix light is adaptive; it recognizes a vehicle approaching or immediately ahead and blanks them out.

Numerous other assistance systems also based on the ultra-modern Opel Eye front camera also support the driver – from the precise Traffic Sign Assist (TSA) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with active steering correction to Forward Collision Alert (FCA) with Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB). And then there is the “comfort kick” in the Astra Sports Tourer: for the first time, an Opel luggage compartment can be opened and closed without requiring a key or remote control. A simple kick under the rear bumper is all it takes to open or close the tailgate.