Friday 30 September 2022

Made-to-Measure Accessories for All-New Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer

  • Electric: Selection of charging accessories for plug-in hybrid variants
  • Stylish: Wheel-spoke clips and exterior mirrors in body colour
  • Neat and tidy: FlexConnect for the interior
  • Practical: Elegant carrier systems for roof and rear
  • Clean: Tailored luggage compartment trays and mats

All-new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer not only look sporty and confident, they are also highly practical. As plug-in hybrids, they are electrified for the first time as well. Inside, the driver-oriented cockpit with the new Pure Panel brings a whole new emotional experience to customers. Equally modern are the tailor-made Opel Original Accessories, with which the latest generation of compact-class bestsellers can be customised. They make opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer even more stylish, individual and flexible. Accessory offer ranges from eye-catching ornamentation and robust carrier systems to efficient safety equipment; and with the numerous Opel charging accessories Astra and Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid drivers are prepared for all eventualities.

Variety of charging accessories for Opel Astra plug-in hybrid variants

Opel has charging accessories available for all who prefer to drive locally emissions-free in the Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrid variants. Offer includes Mode 3 charging cable and matching storage bag as well as the Universal Charger with three adapters in the set:

  • CEE-16 plug (3-phase) for industrial sockets (AC)
  • Type EF plug for household sockets
  • Type 2 plug for public charging stations

Drivers of the electrified Astra model variants are thus well prepared for all charging requirements, even when travelling.

Bold and pure design language as canvas for customization

All-new Opel Astra five-door and Astra Sports Tourer already stand out with their bold and pure design. Opel Vizor brand face seamlessly integrates top technologies such as the adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light. Progressive design language is echoed in the interior by the digital Pure Panel. Opel offers numerous ornamentation items to further emphasise and customize the appearance. Range includes interior and exterior mirror housings in carbon-look or in the car’s body colour; wheel-spoke clips in red, yellow, blue or grey draw further attention to the wheels.


In the passenger compartment of Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, various FlexConnect solutions are available to keep things tidy and make the journey more entertaining. These include hooks and coat hangers as well as tablet holders or the folding table. This makes it easy to watch films or do office work in the rear seats during the journey. FlexConnect attachments can be fixed to the base carrier, which is mounted on the headrests of the front seats and removed again with a flick of the wrist.

Safe, secure transport of bikes and luggage with Opel carrier systems

Opel has a selection of versatile transport and carrier systems for Opel Astra five-door and Sports Tourer. With the various Opel roof boxes as well as ski, snowboard and bike carriers from Opel partner Thule, customers can enjoy extra storage space. Sports equipment can be loaded comfortably, cleanly and, above all, safely.


If you want to keep Opel Astra Sports Tourer’s boot clean after a hike or bike tour through woods, there is a practical luggage compartment tray. With its high, stable edge and anti-slip coating, the tray not only protects against dirt and moisture, but also keeps the boot tidy. And with the load compartment partition grille, luggage or pets travel safely too. Objects and luggage are prevented from sliding around in the luggage compartment by the elastic luggage compartment net. Load-sill mats for Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer offer further protection against scratches during loading/unloading. ¨


Trailers (maximum towing capacity, depending on Astra variant: 1,550 kilograms) can be attached to the removable tow-hook if even more space is needed.

Additional stylish and practical accessories for all-new Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer as well as many other models with the Blitz are available to order online or from local Opel dealers.

Wednesday 28 September 2022

New Opel Astra GSe and Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe revealed

  • Opel’s sporty future is electric: Opel Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe plug-in hybrids launch dynamic sub-brand
  • Passion plus responsibility: GSe enables performance as well as locally emissions-free mobility
  • GSe-only chassis: Low ride-height, specific steering calibration, unique suspension
  • Signature GSe-design: 18-inch light-alloy wheels from acclaimed Opel Manta GSe concept and exclusive, AGR-certified GSe front seats

GSe returns! Following the announcement that Opel will revive GSe as a new sub-brand for dynamic, electrified models, the brand with the Blitz today released advance information and images of the first new GSe models – new Opel Astra GSe and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe.

As state-of-the-art plug-in hybrids, available as Opel Astra Sports Tourer estate as well as Astra five-door hatchback, the newcomers will offer the optimum balance between ride comfort and performance-oriented handling combined with responsibility for the environment.


“New Opel Astra GSe and new Astra Sports Tourer GSe are the ideal cars for launching our dynamic new sub-brand, in full alignment with our strategy to become an all-electric brand by 2028”, said Opel CEO, Florian Huettl.

With an impressive system power output of 165 kW/225 hp and maximum torque of 360 Newton metres (WLTP 1 combined fuel consumption: 1.2-1.1 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 26-25 g/km; preliminary values) new Opel Astra GSe and Astra Sports Tourer GSe will match the best in their respective classes for launch from a standstill, acceleration and maximum speed.

In addition, newcomers will set a new benchmark for driver engagement. In comparison to their Astra siblings, GSe models are even more agile and even more precise; steering, suspension and brakes respond immediately and predictably to every driver input.

German carmaker has achieved the performance-oriented handling characteristics by equipping the new Opel Astra GSe models with a dedicated chassis, lowered by 10 millimetres. Compared with their immediate rivals, the newcomers will deliver superior stability during cornering, under braking and – like every Opel – while driving at high speed on the Autobahn.

Sporty calibration of the steering is GSe-specific, while the unique springs and oil-filled dampers of the front and rear suspension are specially tuned not only for dynamic driving but also for comfort. The dampers feature KONI FSD (Frequency Selective Damping) technology, which enables different damping characteristics at high frequencies (suspension control) versus low frequencies (body control). ESP settings are also exclusive to GSe models, with the activation threshold adjusted upwards to match the dynamic driving behaviour.

Purposeful: Bold and pure Opel Astra-design plus signature GSe styling cues

New-generation Opel Astra is a bold and pure design statement for the brand; signature styling cues of the GSe give it an even more purposeful appearance. From the outside, design of the 18-inch light-alloy wheels – inspired by the acclaimed, all-electric Manta GSe concept – the specific front bumper and fascia, and the GSe emblem on the tailgate, leave no doubts as to the dynamic GSe character. Inside, sporty ambitions are highlighted by the Alcantara-trimmed performance front seats; they are not only unique to the GSe, they further extend Opel’s long-standing reputation for superior seat ergonomics – especially in the Astra’s compact class – thanks to the AGR certification.

Opel “GSe” label was traditionally an abbreviation of “Grand Sport Einspritzung” (Grand Sport Injection) as on the Opel Commodore GS/E and the Opel Monza GSE. GSe is now Opel’s top-of-the-range, sporty sub-brand, standing for “Grand Sport electric”. By combining “fun-to-drive” values with the option of locally emissions-free mobility, Opel GSe models will redefine the performance Zeitgeist.

[1] Preliminary values determined using the more realistic WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure) test method which replaces the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test procedure. Vehicle not yet available. A vehicle's consumption, CO2 emissions and range not only depend on the efficient use of energy by the vehicle but are also influenced by driving style and other non-technical factors. The information on consumption and emissions does not refer to an individual vehicle and is intended solely for purposes of comparison between the various vehicle types.

Monday 26 September 2022

All-New Vauxhall Astra named ‘Best Family Car’ at 2022 Business Car Awards

  • Business Car has named the All-New Vauxhall Astra its ‘Best Family Car’
  • Judges praised the All-New Astra’s attractive design, competitive pricing and value for money
  • All-New Astra is available as a Plug-in Hybrid with up to 43 miles of electric-only range
  • Fully electric version of All-New Astra & All-New Astra Sports Tourer due in 2023
  • Vauxhall is committed to electrifying Britain and will be an electric-only brand by 2028


All-New Vauxhall Astra has won the ‘Best Family Car’ category at the 2022 Business Car Awards.

Annual Business Car Awards recognise and reward excellence in the fleet market, highlighting the best cars for fleets across various categories. All-New Astra received praise from judges for its competitive pricing and eye-catching design.

All-New Vauxhall Astra gives customers the choice of powertrains – offering petrol and diesel variants and a highly efficient Plug-in Hybrid model, capable of travelling up to 43 miles (WLTP, EAER) on electric power alone and therefore in the eight per cent Benefit-in-Kind taxation category. With emissions as low as 24g/km CO2, All-New Astra is ideal for both fleets and private buyers looking to save on running costs. An all-electric version of Astra and Astra Sports Tourer will arrive in 2023. 

Martyn Collins, Editor, Business Car, said: “Vizor front is a highlight, but the new Vauxhall Astra’s overall design is a bit of a head turner. Inside is equally attractive, with its minimalist look. Prices are competitive, plus there are PHEV versions to keep running costs down and standard specifications represent great value for money.”

James Taylor, Acting Managing Director, Vauxhall, said: “It is rewarding to see such a positive response to the All-New Astra. Vauxhall’s success at the Business Car Awards demonstrates our commitment to design, innovation and leading the way in driving Britain towards an electric future, with an efficient Plug-in Hybrid model available from launch and a fully electric Astra arriving next year.”

All-New Astra can be ordered entirely online via the Vauxhall Online Store, bringing the brand’s showroom experience straight into buyers’ homes. Customers can arrange a live video tour of a vehicle via the Vauxhall Virtual Showroom and proceed to the Online Store to configure their vehicle, personalise finance payments and place an order, all from the comfort of their home.

Thursday 22 September 2022

30th Birthday Opel Monterey: Off-Roader for Discerning Buyers

  • Onwards and upwards: Following Opel Frontera, Monterey extended off-road model range
  • Two versions: short-wheelbase RS seated four, long variants with up to seven seats
  • Capable character: Robust design mastered every terrain
  • Today’s SUV flagship: Opel Grandland as plug-in hybrid and with all-wheel drive

Comfortable passenger car or rugged off-roader? Until the early 1990s, customers in Europe had to make a conscious decision. Everything changed in 1991 with the arrival of the Opel Frontera, which as an All-Wheel Drive (AWD) “recreational vehicle”, combined the best of both worlds – and with huge success. German carmaker went a step further in 1992 – exactly 30 years ago – and presented the Monterey, a recreational vehicle aimed squarely at the upper end of the off-road market. Opel Monterey combined stylish bodywork and off-road ability with a high level of comfort and plenty of space. A concept that continues to delight customers today: the newest edition of the Opel Grandland has assumed the role of SUV flagship in the brand’s current model line-up; with a bold and pure design and Opel Vizor front end, plus advanced technologies such as adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light and, of course, electrified as a plug-in hybrid with the option of all-wheel drive. Foundation for the success of today’s SUV and crossover models Grandland, Mokka and Crossland was laid three decades ago by the Monterey and Frontera.

Opel Monterey: New challenger in the upper off-road sector

With the introduction of the Monterey in 1992, Opel extended its range of attractive off-roaders into the upper market segment. Result of cooperation between Opel and its sister brand at the time, Isuzu, the Monterey was tailored for the European market where demand was high for a combination of off-road capability and passenger car comfort. And the Monterey was right on the button: top functionality, rugged looks. Spare wheel mounted on the tailgate clearly signalled the off-road character.

Opel Monterey was available in two body styles and three trim levels. Opel offered the Monterey RS as a short wheelbase three-door with four seats. Opel Monterey and Monterey LTD came with a long wheelbase and the option of five or seven seats. 


Thanks to the high seating position, the driver commanded good all-round visibility, while the passengers enjoyed generous head and legroom. Armrests for the driver and front passenger further increased the comfort. Opel Monterey was also highly practical – with the rear seats folded down the luggage volume grew to 2,548 litres; Opel SUV could tow 2,600 kg too.

A chassis for all surfaces: Comfortable for the road, robust for the rough

Opel Monterey was designed for everyday driving as well as for venturing “off-piste”. Independent front suspension comprised double wishbones, while at the rear the Monterey featured a rigid rear axle with longitudinal links, a Panhard rod and progressive-rate coil springs.

Off-road use was enabled by the robust design of all the relevant parts. Spring travel of 205 millimetres at the front and 230 mm at the rear ensured that the Monterey could master difficult terrain such as ditches and ruts with ease, even on a sloping hillside. Reduction gear allowed it to tackle inclines of up to 76 per cent. Further prerequisites for trips off the beaten track included a wade depth of 600 mm and ramp angles of up to 45 degrees, as well as approach/departure angles of 40/31 degrees respectively. Every Monterey featured as standard free-wheel hubs at the front.

A choice of two powertrains provided the matching performance – a four-cylinder diesel with 3.1-litre displacement and a 3.2-litre petrol V6. The 130 kW (177 hp) V6 was particularly smooth and limousine-like. With this engine, the Monterey could also accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 11.5 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 170 km/h.

State-of-the-art updates: “No Stop All-Wheel Drive” and new powertrains

One of the most important improvements of the 1996 model year was the electronically controlled “No Stop All-Wheel Drive”, fitted as standard equipment. At the touch of a button, drivers could engage AWD at up to 100 km/h from the comfort of their seat. System made the Monterey safer as well as more convenient – drivers could switch on the benefits of AWD not only when going off-road but also in the event of unexpected slippery surfaces.

New edition of Opel’s off-road flagship made its premiere at the 1998 Geneva Motor Show. Highlights among the numerous updates included a newly designed front end as well as several improvements in performance, safety and fuel consumption. Two newly developed powertrains stood out in particular – a 3.5-litre petrol V6 and a 3.0-litre four-cylinder diesel. With the latter, the 1998 Monterey was the first off-roader worldwide to combine four-valve technology with common rail direct injection. Compared with its predecessor, the new diesel engine offered significantly improved power (+40 per cent) and torque (+28 per cent) together with lower fuel consumption. Opel Monterey could also tow up to 3,300 kg – at the time, one of the highest ratings in the class.

In 1999, after seven years in production, Opel Monterey reached the end of the road. Bestseller over the years was the Monterey LTD with top-of-the line equipment; a sign even then that customers wanted a blend of dynamic elegance and high versatility with innovative technologies. It therefore comes as no surprise that this combination remains in high demand today – right up to date with electrification and a stylish appearance – in the shape of the Opel Grandland SUV flagship.

Wednesday 21 September 2022

30 Years Opel in Eisenach: Visitors Enjoy Open Day

  • Opel cars produced in Thuringia since 1992
  • Prime Minister Ramelow and Opel CEO Huettl celebrate with employees and visitors
  • Eisenach stands for top-quality Opel bestsellers and modern production
  • Opel Grandland plug-in hybrid is first electrified model at Eisenach plant

Opel models have been rolling off the production line in Eisenach for 30 years. Thirty years that have shaped the car manufacturer and the entire region. Opel is celebrating this anniversary today with a ceremony and an open day for all families and friends of the brand.

Thuringian Prime Minister Bodo Ramelow and Opel CEO Florian Huettl opened the festivities with the ceremony. Representing 30 years of Opel in Eisenach, they spoke to 30 employees and 30 other invited guests.


“Eisenach has always stood for living history and progressive development. This is shown by the Wartburg as a landmark as well as automobile production. After reunification, Opel was one of the first West German car manufacturers to become involved in the new federal states – with great success. Today, the plant can look back on 30 years and 3.7 million vehicles that have rolled off the production line here. The many companies from the automobile industry are an important economic factor and the plant in Eisenach especially embodies that in Thuringia future has tradition”, said Minister President Bodo Ramelow.


Opel CEO Florian Huettl said: “With the new plant in Eisenach, Opel strengthened the region at the time and revitalised one of the most traditional German automotive locations. Since then, bestsellers have been produced here in first-class, almost proverbial Eisenach quality.” At the same time, the plant is fit for the future; “With the Opel Grandland plug-in hybrid, an electrified model is rolling off the production line in Thuringia for the first time.”


In addition to top vehicle quality, a key to the success of the Eisenach plant is environmental management, which has been a priority at the site from the very beginning. A success story that goes into the next round with electrified vehicles. “And that is why we are celebrating 30 years of Eisenach today under the motto 'Family and Friends'” said Huettl.


Almost all models produced in Eisenach since 1992 were on display – from the former Opel Astra generation and the best-selling Corsa small car, to the stylish ADAM and the brand's current top SUV, the Opel Grandland. In addition, Opel Classic presented further highlights from the company's 160-year history. Visitors could also take a test drive. The “Eisenach” Grandland, the compact SUV Mokka-e and the new Opel Astra were ready and waiting. There was much more for young and old to discover. Driving a forklift truck required a lot of skill. Plant fire brigade presented its technical equipment and the unique red Rocks-e also paid a visit to the factory. 


In the paint shop, a car body was waiting to be painted in bright colours and patterns. In addition, a varied children's programme and numerous other entertainment options made the open day at the Eisenach plant an experience for the whole family.

Friday 16 September 2022

Jubilee in Thuringian Plant: 30 Years of Opel in Eisenach

  • After reunification: Opel one of the first carmakers in the new federal states
  • “Opel counts on Eisenach”: Cars with Blitz leave plant in top quality since 1992
  • Youngest “Eisenacher”: Opel Grandland SUV only produced in Eisenach
  • Big jubilee: Celebration and open day on Saturday, September 17

Thirty years ago, Opel opened a plant in Eisenach that stands for the most modern production conditions and the highest quality. Since then, many Opel bestsellers from the Astra to the Corsa to the ADAM have left the Thuringian factory. Today, brand's top SUV model, Opel Grandland, rolls off the assembly line; electrified as a plug-in hybrid with highly efficient combustion engines. 30 years of Opel in Eisenach means 30 years of pioneering spirit and automobile production in one of the most modern plants in Europe. On Saturday, September 17, Opel is inviting all families and friends of the brand to an open day, and the official ceremony that takes place beforehand will be attended by the Thuringian Prime Minister Bodo Ramelow and Opel CEO Florian Huettl.


“Eisenach has stood for the finest quality for 30 years. At this traditional automobile production site, employees have manufactured numerous Opel bestsellers for delivery to customers. With the production of the Opel Grandland and the Grandland plug-in hybrid on an advanced Multi-Energy Platform, Eisenach is an important part of our electrification offensive,” says Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

“For more than 30 years, our team spirit has driven us to top performance time and time again,” explains Plant Manager Jörg Escher. “Since opening in 1992, the plant and the employees have repeatedly set standards with innovative spirit and drive, even in economically challenging times. This solidarity continues to distinguish us. For Opel and above all for our customers.”

Opel among the first West German carmakers in the new federal states

On September 23, 1992, with former German Chancellor Helmut Kohl and the employees in attendance, the first ever Opel Astra “made in Eisenach” drove off the production line. The plant soon became one of the most modern in the world in terms of environmental sustainability, manufacturing technology and production systems. And it is also an integral part of the city and the region.

Only eight months after start of production of the Astra, the first Corsa drove off the production line in 1993. First Corsa “made in Eisenach” is also the first ever Corsa “made in Germany”. Previously, it had only been built in the Spanish plant in Zaragoza. 

In 2012, the small car welcomed a brother to its home – the stylish Opel ADAM, which was produced in Eisenach until May 2019. €190 million had been invested in the plant for its production.


After reunification, Opel is one of the first West German carmakers to commit itself to the new federal states. Simultaneously the company laid the foundations for the revitalization of automotive production in the region by opening the new plant and investing more than one billion Deutsch Mark. Furthermore, Opel also created numerous new jobs, also within the supplier industry.

Company is the first European manufacturer to introduce completely new manufacturing methods when the new Opel production system was implemented. It is based on five guided principles: employee involvement, continuous improvement, quality control from the start, standardization and short throughput times thanks to smooth logistics.

Opel plant in Eisenach has also been setting standard in environmental management since its opening. Recycling loops to re-use production residues or a state-of-the-art water retreatment plant are just two examples of the sustainable system.

During all these years, the Eisenach plant “reinvented” itself again and again. The small-car bestseller Opel Corsa was manufactured here until 2019, but now the employees at the plant produce the current top Opel SUV – the Grandland, which is also the first electrified Blitz model from Eisenach.

A glimpse behind the scenes

On Saturday, September 17, a ceremony with Thuringia's Prime Minister Bodo Ramelow and Opel CEO Florian Huettl will open the anniversary celebrations for “30 years of Opel Eisenach”. At the open day between 10.00 and 15.00 CET, visitors will have the opportunity to learn something about the eventful history of the plant up close. In the three production areas they will receive interesting information about the production of the Opel Grandland. Outside the halls, all the models previously manufactured in Eisenach will be presented, plus many other highlights from Opel's 160-year history.

Wednesday 14 September 2022

Opel to reintroduce GSe Sub-Brand for Dynamic Models

  • Modern twist: GSe to return as a dynamic, electrified Opel sub-brand
  • Opel CEO Florian Huettl: GSe now also stands for Grand Sport electric
  • Comprehensive electrified offer: From Opel Corsa-e to Astra plug-in hybrid and Movano-e


GSe – three letters with a very clear connotation for Opel customers: highly-equipped, sporty models. Today, with the German carmaker’s clear plan to offer an electrified version of each model in its portfolio by 2024 and to be a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028, Opel is reviving and redefining GSe as a new range-topping sub-brand. Unlike in the past when the label was the abbreviation of “Grand Sport Einspritzung” (Grand Sport Injection) as on the Commodore GS/E and the Monza GSE, it will have a new meaning going forward.


“I am very happy to announce the return of GSe as our top of the range, sporty sub-brand in the immediate future. We have once again taken inspiration from our rich heritage – as we did for our new critically acclaimed bold and pure design – and given it a modern twist. In future, the label GSe will not only signify dynamic, fun to drive cars but also stand for ‘Grand Sport electric’, in full alignment with our ambitious plans to become a fully electric brand,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.




In addition to athletic looks based on Opel’s award-winning design, future GSe customers can look forward to a chassis set-up to deliver a high level of driving fun and engagement. And like all Opel models, GSe line-up will be “Autobahn proof” thanks to extensive testing on German motorways. Simultaneously, GSe models will combine these values with the option of locally emissions-free mobility, thus redefining the performance Zeitgeist.



Opel most recently presented Manta GSe, a modern take on the legendary Manta from 1970. It shows how timeless the lines from 1970 still are today. What was sculptural and straightforward half a century ago still fits perfectly with the Opel design philosophy today. It takes a strong, clear stance and confidently starts a new future: electric, locally emission-free – full of emotions. Opel Manta GSe is also a tribute to the beautiful Manta A that most recently provided the inspiration for the design of the new brand face – the Opel Vizor, which organically integrates into one single module the grille, the lighting system and the Blitz brand emblem. All new Opel models feature the Vizor – including the new Opel Astra and Opel Astra Sports Tourer.


Multi-award-winning Manta GSe also follows Opel’s “simply electric” route to the electrification of the brand, whether as passenger car or light commercial vehicle. Every Opel model will be electrified by 2024, and the customer already has the choice between 12 electrified models today, from plug-in hybrids such as the Grandland and the Astra to all-electric battery-electric vehicles from the Corsa-e small car to the Zafira-e Life “lounge on wheels”, and from the Combo-e Cargo to the Movano-e van.

Friday 9 September 2022

Opel Celebrates Jubilee with Limited Edition “Corsa 40”

  • Real eyecatcher: Special model in red with black ornamentation
  • Timeless pattern: Modern interpretation of Opel Corsa A tartan seat trim
  • From 0001 to 1982: Each car has its own label in the interior
  • Six generations of success: More than 14.5 million units of Opel Corsa produced in 40 years

As the first Opel Corsa rolled off the assembly line in 1982, it opened the first chapter of an ongoing success story. Today, 40 years and six model generations later, more than 14.5 million units have left the plants. Bestselling small car is still hugely popular also as the all-electric Corsa-e. Opel is celebrating the jubilee with the “Corsa 40” special model.

Limited edition – Opel will produce only 1,982 units – comes with a new colour for the bodywork called “Rekord Red” that is highly reminiscent of the red used on the original Corsa A. Contrast is provided by the black roof and black coloured décor such as the Opel Blitz emblem, the tailgate opener and the centrally located Corsa nameplate. Seventeen-inch light alloy wheels in glossy black with inserts in matt grey underline the dynamic appearance.

Inside, the “Corsa 40” is not only nostalgic but also highly modern. Interior is unconventionally stylish, just like the first generation, especially the modern interpretation of the original tartan seat trim. Buyers will also be able to display the timeless pattern themselves – at no extra charge – with limited edition tartan socks in today’s design as well as that of the original.

Limited edition badge is equally unique. Each “Corsa 40” will possess its own label numbered from 0001 to 1982, located on the black décor of the passenger-side instrument panel. In addition, like every Corsa, the special model offers numerous comfort and safety features as standard. List ranges from the Multimedia Radio (compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto) and Full LED headlamps to electronic driver assistance systems such as front collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection.


On the occasion of the “160 years of Opel” and “40 years of Opel Corsa” anniversaries, the brand with the “Blitz” is once again generating customer enthusiasm for the successful small car. Opel Corsa is the bestselling small car on the German market so far this year. In addition, Corsa-e leads the sales figures for battery-electric small cars in Germany.

Wednesday 7 September 2022

Jürgen Klopp takes delivery of New Opel Astra Plug-in Hybrid

  • “There it is!”: Successful manager now drives electrified compact-class bestseller
  • Black beauty: Opel brand ambassador’s new Astra in top Ultimate version
  • Strong and locally emissions-free: 133 kW/180 hp system power output, 360 Nm of torque, up to 60 km of electric driving range 1
  • It’s fun to drive electrically: Video shows Klopp enjoying first outing in Liverpool

“Wow, da is‘ das Ding!“ As usual for Jürgen Klopp, the successful manager comes straight to the point: “Wow! There it is!” The long-standing Opel brand ambassador has been advocating the newest compact-class generation since its world premiere last autumn. And now – as this video shows – a delighted Jürgen Klopp has taken delivery of his new Opel Astra plug-in hybrid at his “office” in Liverpool, England.

With all-new Opel Astra plug-in hybrid Klopp is driving into a new era. “My debut in electric mobility. I drive electric now - exciting!” exclaims the two-time winner of the “Best FIFA Men’s Coach” award. With a system power output of 133 kW/180 hp and maximum torque of 360 Nm his new car offers performance combined with responsibility (combined fuel consumption/emissions WLTP 2: 1.1 l/100 km; CO2 emissions 26-24 g/km). Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h is completed in 7.6 seconds and the Astra can cover up to 60 km powered only by electricity, locally emissions-free (WLTP 1). Klopp’s conclusion about his new Astra: “Looks great, feels good. Just how a car should be!”


In addition to the new Astra’s technology, Jürgen Klopp is equally impressed by its design. He even got involved himself during a visit to the Design Center in Rüsselsheim while the all-new Astra was still under development. His new five-door is also fully equipped (including with right-hand drive).


A real highlight – in the truest sense of the word – of Klopp’s Astra Ultimate Plug-in Hybrid is the newest version of IntelliLux LED Pixel Light. Adaptive, glare-free lighting system shared with the Grandland SUV flagship features 168 individually controlled LED elements. Also onboard are the Intelli-Drive driver assistance system, the Intelli-HUD head-up display and the fully-digital Pure Panel. “Everything where it should be and great craftsmanship. Well done Opel,” said the 55-year-old.

Klopp’s new Astra features ergonomic AGR sport seats in black Nappa leather (heating, massage and ventilation included). In addition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, the infotainment system also comprises navigation and a hi-fi sound system. And thanks to Intelli-Air, the interior air of the new Astra remains as clean as possible for the driver and passengers.

Jürgen Klopp joined Opel as a brand ambassador in 2012. He has appeared in more than 20 TV commercials for the German carmaker. In addition, he has frequently taken part in dealer events and has spoken to employees at the Rüsselsheim headquarters on several occasions.

[1] Electric range (combined) WLTP: 66-73 km. Range determined according to test procedure (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

[2] Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures mentioned comply with the WLTP homologation (World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure). WLTP replaces the New European Drive Cycle (NEDC), which was the test procedure used previously. Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures may vary depending on specific equipment, options and format of tyres.

Friday 2 September 2022

All-New Opel Astra Sports Tourer is “FAMILY CAR of the Year 2022”

  • For design and technology: Opel compact class station wagon wins two awards
  • Crowd favourite: New Astra Sports Tourer the everyday hero with a style factor
  • Online: Almost 11,000 AUTO Verkehr readers take part in the digital election


All-new Opel Astra Sports Tourer wows the audience. This is now also confirmed by the result of the readers' vote for "FAMILY CAR of the year 2022" in the trade journal AUTO Verkehr (Issue 20/2022). Since March, participants have been able to vote for their favorite family car. With 22.7 percent of the votes, the latest generation of the Opel compact class station wagon won 1 among all vehicles up to 25,000 euros won the "Design" category, and with 19.3 percent, the participants in the readers' poll gave the Astra Sports Tourer first place for its "technology(s)". This shows that the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer not only scores with maximum practicality, plenty of space and comfort - it is also an eye-catcher on the road and makes driving safer, more relaxed and more sustainable with its numerous state-of-the-art technologies and assistance systems.


Because the all-new Opel Astra Sports Tourer is an everyday hero with a style factor, a real design statement from the brand: more dynamic than ever before, with clear, exciting lines without superfluous flourishes and with the new brand face, the Opel Vizor. This seamlessly integrates technologies such as the front camera and the adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel headlights . The optionally available glare-free lighting system with a total of 168 individually controllable LED elements is just one example of how the new Astra Sports Tourer makes state-of-the-art technologies available and affordable for the compact station wagon segment.

Inside, the driver and passengers look at the fully digital and intuitive Pure Panel Cockpit with two standard 10-inch displays - a human-machine interface of the latest generation. Driver is supported by state-of-the-art assistance systems from the Intelli-HUD (Head-Up Display) to the Intelli-Drive system. These include the front collision warning with automatic emergency braking as well as pedestrian and drowsiness detection, active lane keeping and automatic speed assistant plus blind spot and cross traffic warning.

In addition, the compact class bestseller from Rüsselsheim has not only been available with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines since it went on sale in February, but also for the first time as an electric plug-in hybrid (power range from 81 kW/110 hp to 96 kW/130 hp). hp for the combustion engines and currently up to 133 kW/180 hp for the plug-in hybrid; fuel consumption according to WLTP 2 : combined 5.9-1.1 l/100 km, 133-25 g/km CO 2 ). This makes the Astra the brand's first electrified station wagon. And as early as 2023, a battery-electric version will complete the range of drives.

All-new Opel Astra Sports Tourer has won over the audience at AUTO Verkehr with its many advantages : almost 11,000 readers have taken part in the online vote since March. As usual, the field of competitors was large: A total of 123 station wagons, vans, SUVs or crossovers had to be evaluated in the eleventh edition of the readers' choice. Participants could present 18 awards.

1] Voting based on official Opel price lists from spring 2022; AUTO Verkehr call for readers' choice in March 2022, results in issue 20/2022 of August 31, 2022.

[2] Values ​​were determined using the more realistic test procedure WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure), which replaces the test procedure with reference to the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). WLTP values ​​are also the basis for calculating vehicle-related taxes. A vehicle's consumption, CO 2 emissions and range not only depend on the efficient use of energy by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors. Further information on the official fuel consumption and the official specific CO 2 emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the “Guide to fuel consumption, the CO 2-Emissions and power consumption of new passenger cars” which is available free of charge at www.dat.de. Information on consumption and emissions does not refer to an individual vehicle and is not part of the offer, but is intended solely for purposes of comparison between the various vehicle types.