Wednesday, 26 November 2025

Compact Class Highlight: First Glimpse of New Opel Astra & Opel Astra Sports Tourer

  • Sharper, more technical: Bestseller with new Opel Vizor design including illuminated Blitz
  • From Vision to reality: New Opel Astra adopts characteristic elements of Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept car
  • Perennial favourite: New Opel Astra sounds in next chapter of 90-year compact-class success story

Sporty, elegant, practical and with numerous features that are otherwise only known from higher vehicle classes: This is what distinguishes the Opel Astra and the Opel Astra Sports Tourer. Together with its predecessor Opel Kadett, the compact model bestseller from Rüsselsheim stands for a success story in its segment that has now lasted almost 90 years. Opel will soon open the next chapter for the Astra. Because the new Opel Astra is coming soon – sharper, more technical and even more eye-catching than ever. Opel has revealed a first glimpse of the future of the Astra by showing the new Vizor, which will adorn the model and is inspired by the breathtaking high-performance Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept car.

"For decades, the Astra has stood for what distinguishes Opel: German engineering that combines emotions with proven practicality and top technologies for everyone. The Astra is 'made in Germany' through and through – designed, engineered and made in Rüsselsheim. Now we are taking the next big step with our compact class bestseller: The new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer will delight customers with new, even sharper and more precise design highlights as well as innovative technologies. Stay tuned, more details will follow shortly," teased Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

The further developed Opel Vizor gives a first taste of the new Opel Astra. The characteristic brand face will be even slimmer and more precise than before. The Opel Blitz emblem is illuminated for the first time in the history of the Astra – and will make the perennial compact class favourite just as recognisable as the top-of-the-line Grandland SUV, the first Opel model to introduce the illuminated Blitz. Sharp and precise contours are characteristic for the new Opel Astra front. For example, the designers and engineers have also refined the Opel Compass and fitted it with characteristic light strips – as can be seen on the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo.

With its sharper appearance and innovative safety and feel-good technologies, the new Opel Astra is now even more modern, attractive and comfortable. In this way, the Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer will continue the successful compact class tradition. More information about the new Opel Astra and its world premiere will follow soon.

Monday, 24 November 2025

2026 Rally season: Opel Mokka GSE Rally to promise Grand Sport Electric in ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup

  • New name: Electric competition to be called ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup
  • New car: Opel Mokka GSE Rally to replace Opel Corsa Rally Electric
  • All the know-how, twice the power: Mokka GSE Rally with 207 kW (281 hp) and 345 Newton metres of torque
  • Opel supports rally stars of tomorrow: Cup proven springboard for young rally drivers

Good news for motorsport fans and rally talents alike. Opel and ADAC have announced some exciting changes for the 2026 rally season. Going forward, the world's first electric one-make rally cup will be called ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup. Furthermore, the participants will no longer face the challenging stages in the Opel Corsa Rally Electric – instead they will show their talents in the 207 kW (281 hp) Opel Mokka GSE Rally, the first car currently being developed according to the FIA's new eRally5 regulations. The 2026 season of the GSE Rally Cup is set to take place across seven rounds in six different European countries and will begin in May with the ELE Rally in Eindhoven, Netherlands.

"With the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup, Opel and ADAC have created the world's first one-make electric rally cup. Five successful seasons impressively prove that sustainable motorsport works and combines strong performance with thrills. Our Opel Corsa has shown that its electric drive system is absolutely reliable, also under rally conditions. Within our GSE strategy, this cup stands for approachable, electric performance and is a successful springboard for young rally talents, as we demonstrated with numerous successes in higher rally classes. With the new Mokka GSE Rally, the 2026 season will definitely be very exciting again", said Rebecca Reinermann, Vice President Marketing Opel and Vauxhall.

ADAC Sport President Dr. Gerd Ennser said: “The innovative concept of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup is a prime example of how to successfully combine the work with young talents and electric motorsport. ADAC is a pioneer for more sustainability in motorsport, and with the early extension of our cooperation with Opel we are sending a strong signal for electric rallying. Our Cup is the talent factory of Europe’s rally champions: Numerous drivers who began their careers here, have successfully established themselves on national and international stages.”

Power, performance, thrills: New Opel Mokka GSE Rally

Teams and drivers can look forward to getting their hands on the Opel Mokka GSE Rally, the first car currently being developed according to the FIA's new eRally5 regulations. With a peak power output of 207 kW (281 hp) it is more than twice as powerful as the Opel Corsa Rally Electric (100 kW/136 hp). In combination with 345 Newton metres of torque and sophisticated motorsport technology, it promises performance on a par with a Rally4 car. A multi-plate limited-slip differential and a racing gearbox, together with reinforced drive shafts and wheel hubs, provide powerful propulsion. The chassis was manufactured in a lightweight design. The perfectly tuned rally suspension from Bilstein consists of reinforced McPherson struts and uniball mounts on the front axle as well as a rear axle with modified springs and dampers. Based on the experience gained from the Corsa Rally Electric, the software tuning for the engine and battery management has been designed for maximum efficiency, drivability under competitive conditions and performance. The battery corresponds to the series version with a storage capacity of 54 kWh.

"Since the launch of this pioneering motorsport project, our Opel Corsa Rally Electric has demonstrated season by season its reliability, robustness, and impressive performance – even under most demanding rally conditions. Now we're taking it to the next level: I had the chance to experience the Mokka GSE Rally in action at the Rally Stemwede in northern Germany. Seeing the motorsport fan reactions to our future rally car shows that we are heading in the right direction with our GSE label and that it has been a good decision to develop a Mokka GSE as series model for Opel customers," said Marcus Lott, Senior Vice President Stellantis Lead Engineering Central Europe.

In addition to ensuring outstanding performance, extremely high safety standards have been retained. Like the Opel Corsa Rally Electric, the Mokka GSE Rally also has a roll cage (certified by the FIA), rally seats with six-point seatbelts, a special encapsulation of the battery and an additional underride guard. The 400-volt system is continuously monitored by the Master Alarm Indicator. In the unlikely event of an insulation issue, a visual and acoustic warning system immediately reports a malfunction. In case of a sudden deceleration (such as in a collision), a sophisticated sensor system completely shuts down the high-voltage system in a few tenths of a second. In addition, the Opel Mokka GSE Rally has a special extinguishing system with electrically non-conductive extinguishing agent.

Electric motorsport and talent pool: Opel supports rally stars of tomorrow

"The cooperation between ADAC and Opel is the perfect embodiment of successful talent promotion. We both support the rally stars of tomorrow, and our common philosophy is paying off: Over 224 male and female drivers from 22 nations have taken their first steps in professional rallying since the 2013 season. The best of them made it into the ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team and caused a real stir at European level. Six JERC driver titles including this year’s championship of Calle Carlberg speak for themselves,” added Jörg Schrott, Head of Opel Motorsport. “But not only the rally youngsters and their thrilling battles have been crucial to the success of our cup. The technological maturity of the Opel Corsa Rally Electric also speaks for itself. Its near-production electric propulsion stands for innovation, quality and reliability made by Opel. With this rally engagement, we prove once again that electric mobility is suitable for everyday use and electrifying and reliable for motorsport alike. I am really looking forward to the 2026 Cup season with our new Mokka GSE Rally."

Since 2013, the champions of the former ADAC Opel Rallye Cup and the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’, which was launched in 2021, have automatically been promoted to the ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team where they have put their undoubted skills to the test in the Opel Corsa Rally4 in the Junior European Championship. This year, Calle Carlberg brought home Opel’s sixth title in the last decade and the Swede followed in the footsteps of Emil Bergkvist (Sweden, 2015), Marijan Griebel (Germany, 2016), Chris Ingram (England, 2017), Martins Sesks (Latvia, 2018) and Laurent Pellier (France, 2022). After having won the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup this year, Tom Heindrichs will be promoted into the ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team next year.

Tuesday, 18 November 2025

GSE Success: New Opel Mokka GSE Wins ‘Golden Steering Wheel 2025’

  • ‘Best small car’: Fastest all-electric production Opel takes title
  • Battery-electric driving pleasure: Opel Mokka GSE brings rally feeling to the road
  • Serial success: To date, 22 ‘automotive Oscars’ for the brand with the Blitz

Goosebumps, speed and electric emotions by driving locally emissions-free – the new Opel Mokka GSE stands for all of this. This is underlined by the latest award for the speedy Opel electric car, which is already available to order: Opel Mokka GSE wins the ‘Golden Steering Wheel 2025’ as ‘Best Small Car’ in a strong field of competitors 1. The fastest all-electric production Opel, which celebrated its world premiere at this year's IAA Mobility in Munich, arouses the enthusiasm of experts and the public.

“Our new Mokka GSE brings Opel’s Motorsport know-how to the road – all-electric, practical and highly emotional in every respect. We are extremely pleased that the readers and the expert jury of AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG see it the same way and have recognised Opel Mokka GSE with the 'Golden Steering Wheel',” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

“This is rechargeable driving pleasure! With its rally genes, Opel Mokka GSE revives the era of hot hatches. Direct, honest, inspiring – on the road as well as on the racetrack,” summarised Robin Hornig, editor-in-chief of AUTO BILD.

Opel Mokka GSE thus follows directly on the heels of last year's award winning Opel Grandland. After the readers of AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG voted the rally sports car for the road into the final, Opel Mokka GSE faced tough tests and the strict evaluation of the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’ jury of experts at the DEKRA Lausitzring. And the newcomer passed with flying colours. The motorsport professionals, car experts and celebrities named Opel Mokka GSE the ‘Best Small Car 2025’1. In the thrilling finale, they awarded Opel Mokka GSE a total of 3,345 points. It thus comfortably beat its main rivals by 374 and 432 points respectively.

Full electric power: 207 kW (281 hp) and GSE Motorsport technology for the road

The success factors are manifold: Opel Mokka GSE offers high-performance as standard. With a peak output of 207 kW (281 hp), it is just as powerful as its motorsport counterpart, Opel Mokka GSE Rally. And with the immediate torque of 345 Newton meters, it accelerates just as uncompromisingly, completing the dash from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds – and with a top speed of 200 km/h, it is the fastest all-electric production Opel. The sophisticated technology, which was also inspired by the rally car, contributes to the exceptional performance. Thanks to the 54 kWh battery, up to 336 kilometres (WLTP 3) can be covered locally emissions-free before Opel Mokka GSE needs recharging.

In addition, there are numerous design and equipment details that convey pure emotions. These include GSE-specific inserts and lettering on the body, a wheel-tyre combination specially developed for Opel Mokka GSE and clearly visible, yellow GSE four-piston brake calipers at the front. In the interior, the driver and front passenger sit on special Alcantara performance seats with integrated headrests designed in the GSE look. 

The newly developed steering system for Opel Mokka GSE along with the steering wheel which is flattened at the top and bottom promise direct feedback. Acceleration and braking commands are given via aluminium sports pedals. 

Technologies such as the adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux Matrix light and the 180-degree panoramic reversing camera are standard, making the journey more pleasant and safe.


Opel and the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’: All 22 winners from Rüsselsheim

New Opel Mokka GSE is the latest in a proud series of Opel winners of the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’. Out of 72 new models, 21 finalists competed in 7 categories this year. After the tests at the Lausitzring, the respective category winners were finally determined. The award, which is presented by BILD am SONNTAG in cooperation with AUTO BILD, is considered the ‘Oscar’ of the automotive industry. In 49 editions the brand with the Blitz has been recognised 22 times. Since 2020 alone, the trophy has gone to Rüsselsheim five times. Opel celebrated its first success in 1978, two years after the award was founded, with the Senator A taking top honours.

[1] AUTO BILD issue 47/2025 and BILD am SONNTAG issue 47/2025, category ‘Small Cars’.

[2] The values of a vehicle depend not only on the efficient use of fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

[3] The stated range was determined using the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning as well as thermal preconditioning.

[4] AUTO BILD edition 45/2021 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2021, category for ‘Best car under €25,000’.

[5] AUTO BILD edition 45/2022 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2022, category for ‘Best car under €50,000’.

[6] AUTO BILD edition 46/2024 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 45/2024, category ‘Best car under €50,000’.

Wednesday, 5 November 2025

Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo: From the First Idea to the Epitome of GSE

  • Top secret OMG! GSE: Opel provides exclusive insights into the development process of its latest concept car in a social media video series
  • Highlight for the community: How Opel opened the door to the gaming world and became part of the Vision Gran Turismo crowd
  • Amazing the world: The high-performance study at IAA Mobility and Gran Turismo World Series

A system output of 588 kW (800 hp), 800 Newton meters of torque, acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.0 seconds and a top speed of 320 km/h – this is the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo. It stands for pure performance and the emotional electric GSE future. Since its world premiere, the high-performance study has been thrilling audiences and is the first Opel concept car merging the real and digital worlds. But how did an idea turn into such an impressive concept? 

In an exciting social media video series, Opel is now giving the community exclusive insights into the development process of the groundbreaking concept car (episodes 1 to 3). In episodes 4 to 6, those responsible show the breathtaking public response that the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo received during its first appearances at the IAA Mobility in Munich and the Gran Turismo World Series in Berlin. In short: OMG! How an idea became the epitome of GSE.

Episode 1: GSE Origins

“There was a continuous request for thrill, for excitement, for performance. And by taking GSE to the next level, we’re answering to the Opel community”, said Opel Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann in the video. Opel has been successfully demonstrating RACE and DRIVE in electric rallying for many years. But there was still one thing missing: PLAY! So the task was to conquer the gaming world – with a concept car that had to be extraordinary in every respect and at the same time based on a legendary Opel model. The idea for the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo was born.

Episode 2: The Secrets of an OMG! Concept Car

But how to bring it to life? After all, Opel was breaking new ground in several respects with its latest concept. Opel has designed many sensational studies, but never a pure racing car. And the leap from the digital to the real world was also new. “The whole team was on fire. So, we really wanted to push the boundaries”, explained Chief Designer Advanced Concepts Florian Theis. Initially, a great amount of development work was carried out in virtual reality before the physical design took shape and the actual vehicle, made of lightweight materials, could finally be assembled.

Episode 3: OMG! Design Walkaround

Then the moment arrived: Opel executives were able to see the finished concept car for the first time. “OMG! A super-emotional moment,” summarised Florian Theis. More precise, sleeker, more technical and even more emotional: all the design goals pursued during the development process were achieved. They contribute to the incomparable performance of this high-performance study. What makes it special is that all the details can be seen and experienced not only in the real world, but also in the digital world of Gran Turismo 7, one of the world’s premiere racing simulators. Furthermore, the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo gives a first glimpse of the next generation of Opel vehicles

Episode 4: IAA: An OMG! World Premiere

“This is the great moment, the moment that we’ve all been working for more than a year, where we finally get to unveil the car and show it to a global audience.” The excitement described by Opel CEO Florian Huettl at the world premiere of the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo at IAA Mobility 2025 was well worth it. The media and public response to the GSE premieres in Munich was overwhelming! This also applied to Opel's unique booth in the city centre, which merged real vehicles with the digital world of Gran Turismo 7. In short: “This car gets your pulse racing. Wide open eyes. Social media goes crazy!”

Episode 5: Inside Gran Turismo: An OMG! World Series

After the IAA Mobility followed the Gran Turismo World Series in Berlin. And there the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo also thrilled the community – right in the heart of the international gaming and social media event. The perfect place to demonstrate how the real and physical worlds merge and stir emotions. “Something I have never experienced. Wow,” said one visitor, summing it up perfectly. And Opel CEO Huettl is sure: “We’ve opened up a world of new opportunities!”

Episode 6: Inside Gran Turismo: An OMG! Collaboration

With the Gran Turismo collaboration, Opel has boldly trodden new ground – with great success, as the reactions of gamers and everyone involved show. As gaming legend and Gran Turismo series producer Kazunori Yamauchi stated: “The Vision Gran Turismo project started 12 years ago. And in recent Vision Gran Turismo efforts, we consider what automobiles should be in the future together with the car manufacturers. 

Regarding this Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo, my impression is that it is a very realistic design.” In this respect, the latest high-performance study from Rüsselsheim already offers a glimpse into the future of GSE and upcoming Opel models. Mission accomplished!

Monday, 20 October 2025

Thrilling Finale to 2025 ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’: Tom Heindrichs Takes the Title

  • Dramatic ending: Rollover on the last stage of the Central European Rally costs Alex Español the title
  • Debut win: Marcel Neulinger celebrates his first Cup race victory at the Central European World Championship round
  • Eye-catching displays: Opel Mokka GSE thrills in front of World Championship backdrop, strong rally debut for Fabian Vettel

The finale of the 2025 ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’ could not have been more dramatic. Until the last special stage, the Spaniard Alex Español and the Belgian Tom Heindrichs fought for every point at the Central European Rally (CER). When it came to the decisive ‘Power Stage’ (SS10) on Sunday afternoon, the Iberian was virtually a mere three points ahead. Full attack, all or nothing, was the motto for both. In the case of Alex ‘Sito’ Español, it was nothing in the end. A few kilometres before the finish, the Opel España driver lost control of his vehicle in a very fast passage and rolled over. Thanks to the high safety standards of the Opel Corsa Rally Electric, both Español and his co-driver Borja Odriozola emerged unscathed.

This cleared the way for second-placed Tom Heindrichs to win the championship: “It will take a while before everything sinks in,” admitted the 21-year-old from the German-speaking part of Belgium, who, as always, was guided by the announcements of his co-driver Jonas Schmitz. “It was a tough season in which not everything always went according to plan. But we accepted every challenge. That made us strong and helped us to keep a cool head in this close final. I'm sorry for Sito, he was an enormously strong opponent. We also had our moments in the Power Stage, but we brought home the title and are extremely happy about it.”

Thanks to this triumph, the younger brother of the reigning World Rally Champion Thierry Neuville will join the ADAC Opel Rally Junior Team and will take on Europe's best rally talents in the FIA Junior European Rally Championship in an Opel Corsa Rally4 supported by Stohl Racing. “That was our goal,” Heindrichs beamed. “I'm extremely proud of the whole team and of Jonas, who did a fantastic job. I can only thank all the partners without whom this would not have been possible. I've never learned as much as I have this season!”

Marcel Neulinger was equally happy with his first race victory in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup. The Austrian took the lead in the standings alongside co-driver Jakob Ruhsam on Friday afternoon with the first two of a total of four special stage best times and did not relinquish it until the finish. After the ‘Power Stage’ and a total of 127 special stage kilometres, his lead over second-placed Heindrichs was only 2.1 seconds! “The victory feels fantastic,” said the 20-year-old.

In third place, Christian Lemke and co-driver Jennifer Gräfe celebrated another podium finish to end the season. Narrowly missing the podium, but once again strong with two special stage best times, the French brothers Anthony and Adrien Rott finished fourth ahead of the German duo Kilian Nierenz/Milena Raithel. The pair from Upper Franconia thus secured third place in the final standings.

Jörg Schrott, Head of Opel Motorsport, was also excited the thrilling finale: “Today two hearts beat in my chest. On the one hand, the finale could not have been more fantastic: a whole season was decided in the very last special stage, at the highest level. Both title aspirants had to demonstrate exactly what makes motorsport so fascinating – namely to give it their all in full concentration. On the other hand, there is this discrepancy between the one who rightly celebrates and will start next year in the works team in the Junior European Championship, and the other who would have deserved it, gave everything and ended up on the roof. Sito now goes home as runner-up, having been at the top of the table since the beginning of the season. This is motorsport in all its facets, united in an incredibly thrilling finale.”

“Sensory overload” for guest driver Fabian Vettel

Away from the thrilling title fight, Fabian Vettel made an impeccable rally debut in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup. “My ultimate goal was to have fun,” stressed the brother of four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel, who was perfectly guided by Gino Kruhs and finished a good tenth in the end. Vettel: “I think I approached the matter with realistic expectations. That was a real sensory overload for me. Every day I learned a lot of new things and had new challenges to overcome. I tried to do my best and continuously improve. At least I was not world apart from the experienced Cup drivers. I think I need to come back ...”

Grand entrance of the fast electric cars in Hauzenberg

Like last year, the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup set up its service area in Hauzenberg. The Corsa Rally Electric and the new 207 kW (281 hp) Opel Mokka GSE Rally, which Junior European Champion Calle Carlberg piloted as a lead vehicle, became the top attractions in the small town northeast of Passau. On Sunday, the speedy electric cars rolled across the market square and gave visitors a close-up view of the world's first electric rally one-make cup.

Final standings 2025 ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’:

1. Heindrichs            190 points

2. Español                 172 points

3. Nierenz                 159 points

4. Lemke                   134 points

5. Kamermans           129 points

6. Neulinger               122 points

7. Wittenbeck             86 points

8. Rott                        83 points

9. Jungnickel              63 points

10. Eertmans              62 points

11. Steitz                    54 points

Wednesday, 15 October 2025

Order Books Open: New Opel Grandland Electric Long Range with Range of up to 694 Kilometres

  • Electric freedom: Grandland Electric Long Range with 97 kWh battery available from €51,750 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany)
  • Electric driving pleasure: 170 kW (231 hp), 345 Nm torque, from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds, top speed of 170 km/h
  • Travel in comfort: With Intelli-Seats, multimedia infotainment and Frequency Selective Damping technology as standard
  • ‘Electric All In’2: Opel makes the switch to electric mobility easy

Opel Grandland family is growing once again: After the introduction of the all-wheel-drive version of the electric top-of-the-line SUV, Opel is now launching the new Opel Grandland Electric Long Range. With its 97 kWh battery, the newcomer enables a range of up to 694 kilometres (WLTP1) between charging stops, making it the range champion among the battery-electric Grandland variants. Even in the entry-level ‘Edition’ trim, it comes with ergonomic Intelli-Seats as well as a chassis with Frequency Selective Damping technology as standard. The new Grandland Electric Long Range thus promises safe as well as comfortable and, above all, extensive locally emissions-free driving pleasure. The latest addition to the Grandland range can be ordered now for prices starting €51,750 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

"Since its launch last year, the Opel Grandland has been convincing customers as a sporty, elegant, state-of-the-art SUV with the highest level of comfort. We are now increasing this even further. We promised the battery-electric Grandland with even more range – and here it comes: In the new Grandland Electric Long Range, drivers and passengers can now drive up to 694 kilometres (WLTP1) locally emissions-free without having to recharge – a range increase that makes our top SUV even more attractive for long business or holiday trips," said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

Free choice of electric powertrain: Opel Grandland Electric now available in three variants

Since its launch, the Opel Grandland Electric has already been available with a 73 kWh battery and a range of up to 521 kilometres (WLTP 1). Just a few weeks ago, the Grandland Electric AWD, which has a system output of 239 kW (325 hp) and 509 Newton meters of torque, celebrated its public premiere at the IAA Mobility in Munich as the first all-electric all-wheel-drive vehicle from Opel. And with the Opel Grandland Electric Long Range, which can be ordered now, Opel is once again expanding the range of the battery-electric top-of-the-line SUV ‘made in Germany’.

For those who want to enjoy even more electromobility freedom than before, the new Grandland Electric Long Range is the ideal choice. A range of 694 kilometres (WLTP 1) goes well beyond the usual everyday requirements. This is made possible by the STLA Medium platform, on which the Grandland Electric is built. It is designed to accommodate batteries of up to 97 kWh – as in the Long Range variant – without compromising on the passenger compartment or cargo space. In this way, Opel  Grandland Electric drivers and their families can now travel even longer distances until the battery needs recharging to 80 percent of the battery capacity in about 27 minutes at a public fast charging station.

Furthermore, powerful locally emissions-free driving pleasure is ensured. The electric motor of the Opel Grandland Electric Long Range offers 170 kW (231 hp) of power and 345 Newton meters of direct torque. This allows the electric car to accelerate to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds; a top speed of up to 170 km/h is possible.

Well equipped: With Frequency Selective Damping, Intelli-Seats and much more

In addition to the three selectable driving modes ‘Normal’, ‘Eco’ and ‘Sport’, the suspension with Frequency Selective Damping technology guarantees maximum situationally adapted driving comfort – as with every battery-electric Grandland. Depending on the situation, road conditions and driving style, the unique technology enables different damping characteristics for comfortable gliding at high frequencies – i.e. for short-wave impacts such as on cobblestones – as well as for a sporty, ambitious driving style with more direct road contact at low frequencies. Opel Grandland Electric thus reacts even more immediately and directly to every command from the driver and remains stable when braking, cornering and at high speeds on the motorway, as is typical for Opel.

Opel Grandland Electric Long Range enhances the safe and comfortable driving experience with numerous other state-of-the-art features. For example, the entry-level ‘Edition’ trim already includes Intelli-Seats with ergonomic recess in the seat surface as well as multimedia infotainment with a 10-inch colour touchscreen and Intelli-LED headlights. In the higher trim levels, electronic helpers such as the award-winning glare-free Intelli-Lux HD light with more than 50,000 elements, the Intelli-HUD head-up display or the 360-degree Intelli-Vision camera as well as the Intelli-Seats certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. are available. The multimedia navigation system with a 16-inch colour touchscreen provides outstanding entertainment and connectivity. Solutions such as the transparent Pixel Box in the centre console, in which one's own smartphone can be charged wirelessly, increase practicality. And for convenient access to the rear compartment, the sensor-controlled tailgate opens and closes electrically in the Grandland Electric Long Range ‘GS’ and ‘Ultimate’.

‘Electric All In’: E-services included for affordable electric mobility

In order to give electromobility a further boost, Opel is making it even easier and more attractive for customers – starting with the purchase of a vehicle. Because anyone who buys a battery-electric model such as the new Opel Grandland Electric Long Range now will receive numerous services at the same time with ‘Electric All In’2. For example, services such as an eProWallbox Move for fast charging at home, e-routes functions and eight years of mobile charging and roadside assistance4 as well as a battery warranty are already included.

[1] Range values determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). The 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] Offer for private customers when purchasing a fully electric passenger car from participating Opel partners in Germany by December 31, 2025.

[3] A vehicle's values not only depend on the vehicle's efficient use of fuel, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

[4] Eight years of roadside and mobile charging assistance; mobile charging assistance up to three times a year.

Wednesday, 8 October 2025

Opel Electrifies with Emotional Line-up at XS Cars'n'Coffee

  • Goosebumps, speed and euphoria: Opel Mokka GSE Rally and Opel Mokka GSE at the DEKRA Lausitzring
  • Rugged show car for all occasions: Opel Frontera GRAVEL made for adventure seekers
  • Opel in the spotlight: After the XS Carnight Festival on Lake Wörthersee, XS fans gather in Brandenburg

On Sunday, motorsport and tuning fans flocked to the DEKRA Lausitzring in Brandenburg where the community celebrated particularly sporty and eye-catching automobiles at the XS Cars'n'Coffee event. And Opel was right in the middle of the action. The brand with the Blitz attracted a lot of interest with its new battery-electric models Opel Mokka GSE Rally and Opel Mokka GSE as well as the extraordinary show car for adventure seekers, the Opel Frontera GRAVEL. A look at the trio was enough to create the proverbial OMG! feeling. Furthermore, Opel once again demonstrated that it has always sent the pulses of motorsport fans racing. The German brand also displayed an Opel Vectra B racing car from the Opel Classic collection.

Pure OMG! GSE power: New Opel Mokka GSE Rally and Opel Mokka GSE

At the Lausitzring, the new Opel Mokka GSE Rally was in its element at the weekend. Because the new rally electric car with the characteristic GSE abbreviation stands for goosebumps, speed and euphoria – perfect for the XS fans who had travelled to the event. From the outside, Opel Mokka GSE Rally, which was recently shown at the IAA Mobility in Munich, attracts attention with motorsport foiling including OMG! GSE lettering, black bonnet, yellow brake calipers and many other rally accents. The key technical data are even more impressive: 207 kW (281 hp) of peak power, 345 Newton metres of torque and sophisticated motorsport technology make the Mokka GSE Rally a unique all-electric rally car.

Best of all, Opel is also bringing this motorsport feeling to the general public in the form of the new Opel Mokka GSE, which is already available to order. With 207 kW (281 hp), the series electric car is just as powerful as its motorsport counterpart. And with the immediate torque of 345 Newton meters brisk acceleration is also guaranteed. Opel Mokka GSE accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds – and with a top speed of 200 km/h, it is now the fastest all-electric production Opel. The sophisticated technology, which is also inspired by the rally car, contributes to the extraordinary performance. For example, Opel Mokka GSE has a Torsen multi-plate limited-slip differential as well as a chassis with specifically designed axles and new double hydraulic shock absorbers. All high-voltage components of the production Opel Mokka GSE come from Opel Mokka GSE Rally. The steering system, chassis and brakes have also been designed to be particularly sporty and optimised with Opel's experience from electric rallying.

Adventure calls: With the Opel Frontera GRAVEL show car

Eleswhere, a completely different Opel celebrated its second XS Carnight appearance at the Lausitzring: the Opel Frontera GRAVEL. The bold, all-electric show car had already caused a stir at its first public appearance at the XS Carnight on Lake Wörthersee in the spring. Now the adventurous version of the family-friendly SUV Frontera thrilled visitors to XS Cars'n'Coffee. The exterior design of the Frontera GRAVEL already awakens the desire to head off the beaten track thanks to its characteristic paintwork and foiling. The matt black roof and the matt black bonnet contrast with the ‘Desert Stone’ foil uniquely selected for Opel Frontera GRAVEL. Additional orange accents are provided by the exterior mirror housings, front and rear bumpers, spoiler and the Opel Blitz in the black Opel Vizor.

The rugged look is further enhanced by a front-mounted winch and hook, side storage boxes at the rear, and a robust lattice-style roof rack designed to maximise gear-carrying capacity for all adventures. And in keeping with the tougher challenges of rough gravel and stone surfaces, Opel Frontera GRAVEL stands on special, seven-inch-wide CWE-16-inch BORBET wheels.

Combined values for Opel Mokka GSE according to WLTP1: Energy consumption 17.9-18.5 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 label: A

[1] The values of a vehicle depend not only on the efficient use of fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.

Monday, 29 September 2025

Three-Way Battle for the Title in the Season Finale of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’

  • Sixth round of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup at the ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg
  • Dutchman Fabian Kamermans celebrates first victory in the Opel Corsa Rally Electric
  • Alex Español increases lead over Tom Heindrichs

Fabian Kamermans secured his first victory in the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’ at the ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg with a dominant performance and thanks to a perfect tyre choice. After twelve special stages over around 108 kilometres, the Dutchman and his co-driver Stefan Müller were 11.1 seconds ahead of the German duo of Kilian Nierenz and Milena Raithel. The Bavarians, for their part, pipped Spaniards Alex "Sito" Español and Borja Odriozola by a mere 1.7 seconds. Español thus increased its lead in the overall standings over the Belgian Tom Heindrichs by eight points. The brother of World Rally Champion Thierry Neuville and his co-driver Jonas Schmitz finished fourth in the asphalt rally around Lübbecke.

At the season finale from October 16 to 19 as part of the Central European Rally, which is part of the World Rally Championship, three drivers still have a chance of winning the title: Español leads Heindrichs by twelve points, while Nierenz is 29 points behind and has to hope that his rivals are off the pace. At the World Championship round around Passau, a maximum of 35 points are still up for grabs.

The right choice of tyres sets the course for victory at the Rally Stemweder Berg

A preliminary decision for victory at the ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg, which is part of the German Rally Championship, was already made in the third special stage on Friday evening. As the only ones in the field, Kamermans/Müller had the right nose and put their Opel Corsa Rally Electric on rain tyres. Promptly, it began to rain immediately before the start of the stage, whereupon the Dutch duo built a significant lead of 18.6 seconds.

But even after that, Kamermans did not merely manage his lead but consolidated his advantage with three more special stage best times. “The first win feels great. Of course, the perfect tyre choice on Friday evening played into our hands. It was clear that we had to keep our concentration and still continue to attack. In the second stage on Saturday morning, we had a real moment of shock, but then we approached the rest of the rally as if it had only just begun. That was the key to this victory. To win here after the last rally, in which pretty much everything went wrong, is just great," said Kamermans.

Even though his title chances are likely to be only mathematical in nature, Kilian Nierenz was highly satisfied with second place, the fourth podium finish this season: “We started the rally perfectly with two best times. The rain on Friday evening surprised us as much as everyone except Fabi. He was simply smarter there. On the second day I made a few mistakes, so we are all the more happy about this second place. It was close, it was exciting, and it was a lot of fun again. Our goal now is to secure third place overall at the finale."

Third-placed Alex Español set three stage best times, including those in the final Power Stage, and was pleased with the increased lead in the overall standings: “Like most others, we made the wrong tyre call on Friday evening. So the plan for the second day was clear: full attack, take as many points as possible. That worked out great, and the fact that we were able to win the Power Stage at the end and take the five bonus points gave us a little more breathing space in the standings. Nevertheless, we will go into the Central European Rally fully focused, as we have done in all previous rallies. Because that's the only way you can win the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup."

ADAC Sports President Dr. Ennser enthusiastic, Fabian Vettel excited

As part of the development program, Opel racing legend Volker Strycek once again piloted the new 207 kW (281) hp Opel Mokka GSE Rally as the lead vehicle over the special stages of the ADAC Rallye Stemweder Berg. The electric powerhouse is the first rally car being developed according to the FIA eRally5 regulations, which come into force in 2026.

For the second time after the 2024 Mont-Blanc Morzine Rally, Dr. Gerd Ennser took part in a Cup race. Alternating with his son Fabian, the ADAC sports president drove an Opel Corsa Rally Electric as a preceding vehicle and enjoyed the experience: "The ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup is unique. For the ADAC, it is important that electrification in motorsport progresses. I've been a big rally fan since I was young and always thrilled when I have the opportunity to be active in a rally car myself. I'm not as competitive as the boys anymore – but it's still a lot of fun!"

First and foremost, fun will also be the focus of a prominent guest driver in three weeks. As part of the season finale of the ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup, Fabian Vettel (26) will make his rally debut. The brother of four-time Formula 1 world champion Sebastian Vettel will share the Corsa Rally Electric with experienced co-driver Gino Kruhs at the Central European Rally.

Standings ADAC Opel Electric Rally Cup ‘powered by GSE’ after 6 rounds:

1. Español        172 points

2. Heindrichs    160 points

3. Nierenz         143 points

4. Kamermans   121 points

5. Lemke           109 points

6. Neulinger        88 points

7. Wittenbeck      71 points

8. Rott                 63 points

9. Jungnickel       57 points

10. Eertmans       52 points

11. Steitz             42 points