!NEW! Opel Insignia Sports Tourers 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo ‘Beat’ Traffic

• 20 custom specified Opel Insignia Sports Tourer’s to join Garda Traffic Corps in 2015
• 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo high performance diesel engine featured with 195hp

Custom specified Opel Insignia Sports Tourers Delivered to An Garda Siochana

Coming to a rear view mirror near you soon could be one of 20 new high performance Opel Insignia Sports Tourers that have just been delivered to An Garda Siochana. These custom specified Insignia’s feature a 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo diesel engine with an output of 195hp that ensures rapid engine response from low revs, making them ideal for high performance driving and policing.

Dave Sheeran, Managing Director, Opel Ireland said; “Opel have a vast experience in developing cars that provide surefooted performance and with the specifications that we have provided with these Insignia Sports Tourers, they are ideally equipped to support the safe and efficient patrolling of our Irish Motorways.”

The vehicles, which are wrapped in the traditional Traffic Corps livery, were unveiled at a press event with the Taoiseach and An Garda Siochana Traffic Corps last week at their headquarters in the Phoenix Park and will be provided to Garda traffic units around the country.

With a long history of supplying Opel’s to An Garda Siochana, Opel’s Fleet Department worked in close partnership with the team in the Transport Department to deliver the perfect specification to cater for their unique requirements for policing.

Opel ECOTEC 2.0 CDTI BiTurbo 

The 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo diesel engine is equipped with two turbos, one larger than the other. They operate separately or together as required to ensure quick engine response from low revs: 400Nm of torque is developed from only 1750Nm (with 350Nm from only 1500rpm). The smaller turbo uses an efficient water-cooled intercooler to minimise turbo lag, while the larger turbo uses a larger air-cooled intercooler at higher engine speeds. Compared to single-turbo Insignia 2.0 CDTi engines, the BiTurbo has higher performance pistons, cylinder head and gasket and camshafts to deal with the extra power. Despite all this performance-focussed technology, it is extremely fuel-efficient and boasts combined CO2 emissions of only 129g/km.

Suspension

Independent front and rear suspension has been fitted to these Insignia’s with lowered, uprated sports suspension along with FlexRide, Opel’s Adaptive Chassis System. FlexRide uses multiple sensors and instantly adjusts the dampers to suit the driving conditions to optimise ride and handling in all situations. Pressing the “Sport” button stiffens the dampers, quickens the throttle response and gives more direct feeling to the steering for higher speed driving situations. FlexRide works with the ESP, ABS, electronic brake-force distribution and traction control systems to optimise driving safety.

Brakes

High performance brakes are fitted, with the larger diameter front discs being ventilated and gaining 4-piston brake callipers with larger pads for superior braking ability. Manual handbrakes replace the normal electric handbrakes for operational effectiveness reasons. Meanwhile the 17-inch alloy wheels maximise air-flow for effective brake cooling.

Interior

Gardaí who will have responsibility of these Insignia’s will travel in the utmost comfort as Opel’s award winning Ergonomic Sports Seats have been fitted. These feature electrically adjustable lumbar support and height adjustment which are perfect for spending long periods in the car while also providing support during high speed manoeuvers. A leather sports steering wheel with integrated cruise control and speed limiter buttons and audio controls improve steering feel and performance while minimising time with hands off-wheel. A 4.2” colour dashboard displays trip computer information in a clear easy-to-see format, with the info pages also controllable via steering wheel buttons. Climate control, remote central locking with deadlocks as well as privacy glass on all rear windows for operational reasons, of course.

Safety

Of course the Insignia is fitted with the highest safety features with front, side and curtain airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners. Active safety front head restraints ensure minimal impact to the neck in the unlikely event of an incident.  Meanwhile LED Daytime running lights and front fog-lights have been fitted to enhance the already highly visible livery.

!NEW! Opel starts production of the new Opel Insignia in Rüsselsheim

Emerald Opel Insignia Sports Tourer BiTurbo first series production car to leave the plant

Opel Insignia Country Tourer as additional model exclusive from Rüsselsheim

Start of series production for the new Opel Insignia:  today, the first model for sale rolled off the assembly line in the Rüsselsheim plant. The spotlight was on an emerald Insignia Sports Tourer with the new 2.0 liter BiTurbo CDTI engine with 195 hp.

“This is a moment that we have all been looking forward to, as the new edition of our flagship that we are officially presenting at the IAA in September is the next important milestone in our model offensive,” says Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. The CEO praised the whole team’s outstanding work. “They put everything they have into this – all their know-how, all their experience and all their passion.”

With the new Opel Insignia, the 3,300 employees at the Rüsselsheim plant continue writing a success story that began in October 2008 with the start of production of the first Insignia generation. Just one year later European automotive journalists named the Insignia “Car of the Year”, and many other accolades followed. The Rüsselsheim carmaker is particularly proud of the flagship’s top ratings for quality. In the DEKRA Used Car Report 2012, the Insignia came out number one for the second consecutive time with the fewest errors, again achieving the best results in the mid-size class. In the GTÜ Used Car Report 2013, it showed its top class in two categories. It was named the best-quality car in the mid-size class, not only among one-to-three-year-old cars, but also in the four-to-five-year-old model category. To date around 600,000 units of the Opel flagship have been built, with the most important markets being Germany and the United Kingdom.

The new model generation brings more drive to the successful model line. The entire Insignia portfolio (four-door, five-door, Sports Tourer and OPC version) has been renewed. The new generation features even more distinctive design, a new high-quality cockpit and newest generation infotainment system with intuitive operation. “The electronics in our flagship’s interior are really impressive. Even very expensive cars can’t compete here!” says Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

In addition, the new highly efficient engines set standards in the mid-size segment – including gasoline and diesel engines with best in class economy. A new 2.0-liter CDTI engine with six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop consumes just 3.7 liters diesel per 100 km and emits only 99 g/km CO₂ (NEDC). And the new 1.4 Turbo gasoline engine needs just 5.2 liters fuel per 100 km with CO₂ emissions of 123 g/km.

And a new family member is also in the starting blocks: the Insignia Country Tourer with all-wheel drive, higher ground clearance and SUV character. The Country Tourer is exclusively built in the Rüsselsheim plant like all other Insignia variants.

Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann: “Today Opel has the strongest model portfolio ever, and the Insignia is a very important part of that. High quality-standards, attention to detail, and the power to innovate have resulted in this car.”

!NEW! “Opel the Reliable“: From Gasoline Wagon to Astra Sports Tourer

• Since 1907: Opel Gasoline Wagon’s sobriquet is “The Reliable“
• Five-decade lifespan: Advertising slogan from the 1930s to the 1980s
• Endurance test success 2013: Trade journal calls Astra “Opel, the most reliable”
• 13^th Classic Car Event: Opel Quick Delivery Wagon meets Sports Tourer at the Opel Villas

The terms Opel and reliability are intrinsically tied to one another. In its recent 12/2013 issue, the respected trade journal auto motor und sport declared “Opel, the most reliable“, describing the best compact endurance test car of all time – an Astra Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI that did not have one single technical fault over the entire distance of 100,000 km. Opel Vice President Quality Thomas Simon says, “Typical Opel values are precision, efficiency and reliability.” Opel has a long tradition of quality, as the first cars with combustion engines from Rüsselsheim very quickly earned a reputation for being “reliable”. At a time when Otto engines still had to compete against steam and electric propulsion drives (!), the first Opel cars were convincing with their faultless operation and safe arrival at their destination.

 Opel Astra Sports Tourer CDTI BiTurbo (2013) and Opel Olympia CarAvan 'Schnelllieferwagen' (1953) 

At the beginning of the 1930s the brand embraced its good reputation and developed “Opel the reliable” in the form of a logo. From 1936 the ad slogan was used for all model lines. Then, during the time known as the economic miracle, the slogan really came into its own. From the Quick Delivery Wagon (Schnelllieferwagen) Olympia Rekord to the Rekord Cabriolet and stately Opel Kapitän – all starred in ads and in the cinema advertising that wildly popular at the time under the motto “The Reliable”. The 1950s were Opel years, when the brand rose up out of the ruins of the bombed Rüsselsheim plant to become a prestigious brand of the postwar period.

Opel Olympia CarAvan 'Schnelllieferwagen' (1953) and Opel Astra Sports Tourer CDTI BiTurbo (2013)

In the 1960s the advertising became more colorful, the model offer more extensive and the engines larger – the claim “Opel the reliable”, however, remained. The quality promise stood loyally to the new Kadett, even though the main message in its advertising was already “Opel Kadett - in a word, O.K.” Slowly but surely new messages crowded out the classic claim: “Opel Kadett. The car” or “Opel Rekord – the upscale mid-size class” were emblazoned on the posters. At least the logo got a tiny addition: under the blitz was now written “tested reliability”.

Opel Olympia CarAvan 'Schnelllieferwagen' (1953)

Yet the slogan from the 1930s again celebrated a comeback until well into the 1970s. The seal of quality “Opel the reliable” again adorned ads for the Rekord and Commodore! With a new design, it was also the ideal supplement to “ADMIRAL – the fast touring car” (to 1976). It was after that that traces of the original claim are lost. Instead, advertisers bet on the appeal of powerful V8 engines (“Badge for advanced drivers”, “For fast horse enthusiasts”) or the sportiness still ubiquitous today (“Opel Manta. Because you know what driving is about”, “Opel Manta. If conventional cars are too boring for you“).  

The new plan is called QUALITY!2022

But Opel never lost sight of the term reliability, remaining true to its tradition. Which is why Thomas Simon explains the strategy for the coming years as follows: “We are already on the right track with the quality offensive we began in 2007 – as the result of the auto motor und sport endurance test impressively shows. In addition, we have drawn up the plan QUALITY!2022 as an important component of our overall strategy DRIVE!2022. Our ambitious but realistic goal is to take over quality leadership in the automotive industry. Customer satisfaction with the product, service and the entire experience at all points of contact with the brand is the be-all and end-all.”

The past, the present and the future all come together at Opel under one common denominator – “Opel the reliable”. The German automaker also demonstrates this at the 13^th Classic Car Event at the Opel Villas in Rüsselsheim this coming Sunday, June 30. In the illustrious circle of beautiful Opel classic cars there will also be two special vehicles parked next to each other – the legendary Opel Schnelllieferwagen from 1953 and the faultless Opel Astra Sports Tourer from the auto motor und sport endurance test. When the 25,000 visitors expected at the event stroll around the two exhibition cars, they’ll see on the 1953 Olympia Rekord, large and clear: “Opel the reliable”.

!NEW! Opel Zafira Tourer BiTurbo: The fastest diesel in the compact seven seater MPVs

• Powerful BiTurbo diesel engine with 143 kW/195 hp and 400 Nm of torque
• Unique technology to increase safety and comfort features
• Flagship diesel broadens Opel Zafira Tourer engine portfolio

    

New Opel Zafira Tourer BiTurbo with AFL lights

Opel Zafira Tourer is now the fastest seven seat compact MPV Diesel in the program. As an engine for the Zafira Tourer is the ultra modern 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI ecoFLEX with Start / Stop and sequential, two stage turbocharging. With the 143 kW/195 hp top diesel engine reaches a maximum speed of the compact MPV 218 km/h It requires only 5.6 liters of diesel per 100 km - the new BiTurbo model is not only strong, but also provides efficient and economical fuel consumption at an impressive power delivery.

Features of the progressive, sequential BiTurbo technology of the Zafira Tourer are high power output, immediate responsiveness and exemplary torque with a wide usable rev range. In just 8.9 seconds the compact van sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in fifth gear he needs from 80 to 120 km/h just 8.5 seconds.

The award winning Opel Zafira Tourer, which recently at the European readers of Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag won the Golden Steering Wheel 2012 combines premium look inside with technologies, some of which are unique to the segment and to increase safety and comfort. The technical highlights include the FlexRide mechatronic chassis system, the Opel front camera of the second generation, the adaptive security lighting system AFL + and the panoramic windscreen, which makes for a light filled interior. The extra degree of flexibility that Flex7 seating system ensures a unique lounge design. Thus, the passengers in the second row as much space as never before.

The new two liter BiTurbo engine broadens the comprehensive portfolio of Opel Zafira Tourer further: Now, four gasoline and diesel engines and a LPG and CNG are on offer - for every purpose and claim the appropriate aggregate. "Opel Zafira Tourer makes successful with sophisticated German engineering more attractive. We are the only brand to equip a van with such a refined BiTurbo engine", says Opel Strategy Officer Dr. Thomas Sedran. "With the new Zafira Tourer BiTurbo we offer the perfect blend of high performance, frugal fuel consumption and premium qualities in a compact MPV with seven seats."

With 143 kW/195 hp and an average consumption of just 5.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers, the new Opel Zafira Tourer BiTurbo not only powerful, but also more efficient

The new Opel Zafira BiTurbo is now available with the superior equipment lines Sport and Innovation can be ordered at a starting price of 35,405 euros (recommended retail price in Germany including VAT). To the dealers rolls high performance diesel this spring .

!NEW! Diesel Jubilee in Opel Kaiserslautern

• Factory produced the one millionth of the current two liter engine series   
• Overall, more than nine million engines from the West Palatinate since 1980

Millionth copy of the latest two liter diesel engine series from belt. From left: Elvira Tölkes (Director Opel plant Kaiserslautern), Peter Thom (Production Director), Marc Schiff (Executive Director, Manufacturing) and Ralph Görig (Area Manager engine manufacturing plant Kaiserslautern).

Great day for Opel Kaiserslautern: The factory in the West Palatinate ran today in the presence of manufacturing director Peter Thom the millionth copy of the latest two liter diesel engine series from belt. The "millionaire" is a 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI. The high-tech engine produces the Opel Insignia 195 hp (143 kW) and torque of 400 Newton meters and consumes only 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. The Insignia is one of the most powerful and also most economical diesel cars in its class. The 2.0 CDTI BiTurbo in the Insignia, Astra and since January 2013, in the Zafira Tourer used. Opel has it the fastest seven-seat compact MPV Diesel in the program.

Factory Director Elvira Tölkes: "We are delighted about the anniversary - this is a number to which we can be proud. The two liter diesel engine is a real piece of innovative and fuel efficient advanced technology from Kaiserslautern. And I especially thank all of our employees, which with their commitment every day to ensure that this top quality off the assembly line. Not least thanks to our engines Opel cars are like the Insignia in independent quality ratings for years at the top "production director Peter Thom." I congratulate the experienced and dedicated Kaiserslautern team on this success. The work of Kaiserslautern is a reliable partner for its customers in the Group's production network. "

The plant in Kaiserslautern is in the Opel / Vauxhall manufacturing network as a hub for engines and for body and chassis components. In 1980 the plant produced the first engine, a 1.6 liter gasoline engine. Since then, in Kaiserslautern total more than nine million engines have been produced.

The production of diesel engines for the first time acquired the factory in 1982. With the establishment of the new diesel engine plant in 1996, production was expanded. In 2005, then left the first engine of the current engine family, at that time with 1.9 liters of displacement, the work. Today, the foundation Kaiserslautern the 2.0 liter diesel engine in 32 different variants.

Opel GM Kaiserslautern plant

The engines from the Palatinate are not only in the European Opel plants in Rüsselsheim, Bochum, Ellesmere Port (United Kingdom) and Gliwice (Poland) installed in vehicles - they are also used throughout the group within GM. Kaiserslautern provides, for example, in the USA and Korea, where the engines are used in the Chevrolet Cruze and the Chevrolet Malibu used.

The Jubilee Motor 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI with 143 kW/195 hp and 400 Nm was designed for a particularly agile, responsive, fast response and superb power development. Highlights of the four cylinder common-rail engine, the sequential, two stage turbocharging and the use of two intercoolers.

The smaller turbo is at low engine speeds very quickly up to speed. This leads to an instantaneous reaction of the engine to accelerate commands and avoids the undesirable "turbo lag". In the mid-range work both turbochargers, the larger the intake air precompressed before it is then compressed in the smaller charger on. The result is a consistently powerful acceleration with a simultaneous fuel economy.

New Opel Astra J BiTurbo – Most powerful Diesel Astra Ever

• Astra line-up now with new 195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI, 400 Nm torque
• Top speed of up to 226 km/h, fuel consumption as low as 4.9 l/100 km
• Available as five door, GTC coupé and Sports Tourer station wagon
• Sporty, sharpened design underscores dynamic performance
• Sophisticated sequential BiTurbo technology with Twin Intercooler system
  
  
  
  
  The Opel Astra line-up is being enhanced with a new diesel spearhead of power: the four cylinder 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI engine with 143 kW/195 hp and 400 Nm maximum torque. It is available in three body styles: the five door hatchback, the GTC coupé and the Sports Tourer station wagon. No other brand offers this broad choice of high performance diesel models in the compact segment. The five door Astra BiTurbo CDTI achieves a top speed of 226 km/h, making it the fastest Astra diesel ever (Sports Tourer 222 km/h, GTC 223 km/h). While providing powerful performance and driving fun, the BiTurbo engine is also highly efficient. In combination with fuel saving Start/Stop technology which is standard across all Astra BiTurbo models, the GTC only uses 4.9l/100 km (Sports Tourer and five door 5.1 l/100km) Emissions for the GTC are 129 g/km (134 g/m for the hatchback and station wagon).
  Launched early 2012 in the Opel flagship Insignia, the 195 hp powerhouse engine introduces sophisticated sequential BiTurbo technology to the Astra family which comes with a twin intercooler system. The new Astra high performance diesel  variants can be ordered starting in the fall and are scheduled to be available at dealerships by the end of this year.
  
  
  Smooth acceleration without turbo lag
  Depending on the load range in the Astra BiTurbo four cylinder diesel engine, two turbochargers of different sizes work either separately or together. The smaller turbocharger accelerates especially quickly at low engine speeds. This means the accelerator pedal responds well and the undesired “turbo lag” effect is prevented. Starting at 1,250 rpm, the driver can already draw on 320 Nm – this is 80 percent of the maximum torque of 400 Nm which is available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm.
  
  
  

  In the mid range of rpm, both turbochargers operate together, with the larger turbocharger pre compressing the intake air, before it is fully compressed in the smaller one. A bypass valve is controlled continuously to pass on part of the exhaust gases to the larger turbo. As a result, the driver still enjoys smooth acceleration. At higher rpm (from around 3,000 rpm) all the gases flow directly to the larger turbocharger, maintaining the fluid power delivery at higher speeds.
  
  
  

  The main focus in the development of the 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI engine was to ensure a rapid build up of charge air pressure in the low rpm range, while giving the accelerator responsiveness in the mid rpm range. The engine air is ideally adjusted according to the rpm range and the needs of the two turbochargers of different size. At low rpms an additional cooler that is exclusively linked to the small turbocharger ensures that the small volume of air passes in a direct path to the combustion chamber. In the mid rpm range, the bigger and more powerful turbocharger becomes increasingly involved. Its larger stream of air is cooled by a bigger cooler.
  
  
  

  As the layout of the Astra engine compartment is different to the Insignia, engineers went for a clever packaging solution by splitting the intercooler module internally into the smaller and larger cooler. This differs from the Insignia BiTurbo engine where the coolers are in separate locations. Both coolers in Astra BiTurbo engine are air cooled.
  
  
  Sporty and sharp design inside and out underscores high performance
  
  
  

  The new BiTurbo high performance diesel variants of the five door, Sports Tourer and GTC have been given an even a sharper and more aggressive exterior appearance varying from body style to body style and adapted to each specific model. The front fascias of the BiTurbo Astra body versions (GTC, Sports Tourer and five-door) underscore the cars’ high performance and more aggressive nature. The upper grille has a similar shape as the one used on the Astra GTC, however the front bar is always in body color and the five door hatchback and Sports Tourer BiTurbo models feature the new wing shaped bar across the grille. The lower air intake area has also been given a sporty design treatment: the area where the central grille merges into the outer grille has been sculpted in a shark fin like shape, making the car appear more aggressive.  The entire side window surround of the five door and Sports Tourer models is in chrome, while in the case of the GTC Biturbo the lower window insert is black. In all variants, there are  two exhaust tail pipes at the rear as well as a pronounced rear bumper shape that is specifically adapted to the model. These features give the car an added muscular stance.
  
  
  

  Inside the cabin of the Astra BiTurbo variants, JetBlack colored fabrics or leather are combined with Magic Red in the edge of the seats. Magic red stitching and seams in the seats, door inserts and the gear shifter boot add to the sporty atmosphere of the interior. A new flat bottom leather steering wheel and special floor mats with red surrounds are other sporty components of the Astra BiTurbo cabin.
  
  
  BiTurbo versions benefit from broad Astra technology offer
  The now most powerful diesel, the Opel Astra BiTurbo, also benefits from many of the safety and comfort increasing premium features available in the new Astra line-up. They include the second generation Opel Eye front camera with the enhanced Traffic Dign Assistant (TSA II), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Following Distance Indication (FDI) and Forward Collision Alert (FCA). A rear view camera is available in the Sports Tourer and five door BiTurbo models.
  
  
  The new systems complement the already existing broad Astra offer of innovative technologies, some of which are unique in the compact segment, while others are rarely found among competitors. One of these is the latest generation intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) with Bi-Xenon headlamps and a host of sophisticated lighting functions, including high beam assist, dynamic curve light, cornering light, and variable light distribution that automatically adjusts according to prevailing conditions, including even the weather.
  

  
  

  FlexRide for top driving dynamics – GTC with HiPerStruts

  The drive dynamics of the BiTurbo variant of the Astra were further improved by modifying bushings, reducing trim height with stiffer springs and including a new rear axle with higher roll rate.

  
  

  

  On top of the already dynamic driving characteristics of the Astra, customers can opt for Opel’s intelligent mechatronic FlexRide system which adjusts automatically to the prevailing driving conditions and offers three modes: Standard, the comfort oriented “Tour” mode and the more active “Sport” mode. The FlexRide system was especially adapted for the BiTurbo to guarantee good ride performance together with the higher level of vehicle responsiveness.

  Like all Astra GTC and OPC models, the Astra GTC BiTurbo variant features HiPerStruts (High Performance Struts) as standard on the front wheel suspensions for an even sportier ride and handling. The HiPerStruts improve grip, increase cornering power and significantly reduce torque steer allowing drivers to get the most out of the performance capabilities.

  For extra comfort, ergonomic front seats are offered across all Astra models including the BiTurbo versions. The AGR certified seats (Aktion Gesunder Rücken) are easy on the backs of the driver and front passenger.

  
  

  

  Another optional feature that adds an extra premium note to the cabin of the GTC models including the BiTurbo and OPC variants is the Panoramic windscreen. The exclusive windscreen patented by Opel reaches all the way to the middle of the car roof, giving the driver and all passengers an extraordinary visual, space and driving experience. 
  
  30. August 2012 UPDATE: Autoexpress UK wrote: For a clever mix of performance, practicality and low running costs, the Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo makes a strong case for itself. It’s fun to drive, very quick and great value compared to its fiercest rival, the VW Golf GTD.
  
  

  Read more at: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/vauxhall/astra/59962/vauxhall-astra-biturbo

  
  

New Opel Astra J range: More Variety, Engines and High-Tech Features

·         New powerful engines: 195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI and 280 hp 2.0 SIDI Turbo unit

·         Full spectrum: From 99g/km CO₂ ecoFLEX to high performance OPC version

·         New assistance systems extend broad offer of innovative technology

·         Sharper design underscores sporty style and high technical standards

·         New sedan completes Astra J line-up

     

With the new sedan, the five door variant, the Sports Tourer station wagon and the three door GTC coupé as well as its high performance OPC version, the diverse Astra line up is now complete.

New engines that as of now and during the next six months will expand the already diverse performance spectrum of the Astra powertrain offer. The new Astra OPC which can already be ordered with its 2.0 turbocharged direct injection gasoline engine promises lots of fun behind the wheel. With an output of 206 kW/280 hp and maximum torque of 400 Newtonmeters, the Astra OPC is not only the most powerful Astra ever but also the fastest: the top speed of this powerhouse coupé is 250 km/h and it can sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.0 seconds.

The fastest diesel Astra ever can be ordered starting in the fall: The new 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI with 143 kW/195 hp output and an impressive 400 Nm of torque is already known from the Insignia, but now for the first time introduces the sophisticated sequential BiTurbo engine technology to the mass production compact segment. Powered by two turbochargers that work together, this engine enables excellent performance combined with low fuel consumption in the Astra five door, the Sports Tourer and the GTC. These three different body styles provide a choice of a high performance diesel models that is unparalleled in the compact segment.

Opel can also announce enhancements to its already existing 1.4 liter turbocharged gasoline unit with 103 kW/140 hp. This engine is now equipped with an overboost function that temporarily gives the vehicle an extra 10 percent burst of torque from 200 to 220 Nm which is very useful when overtaking for example.

Full spectrum – from 99 g/km CO₂ ecoFLEX to high performance OPC variant

On the powertrain side, the new Astra line-up is able to satisfy an extraordinary array of customer wishes, from the most fuel efficient Astra ever, the 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX (81 kW/110 hp and 96 kW/130 hp) with only 99 g/km CO₂ (3.7 l/100 km) to the strongest diesel-powered Astra with its new 195 hp BiTurbo CDTI engine and the most powerful Astra in history, the new Astra OPC with 280 hp. Not forgetting the recent launch of the 1.4 turbocharged LPG versions (103 kW/140 hp) at the start of 2012, the powertrain offer of the Astra line-up is one of the most diverse in the compact segment. Furthermore, early next year the range will benefit from the introduction of the new SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) ECOTEC gasoline engine generation with a 1.6 liter displacement and turbocharging, providing not just ultra-efficient fuel consumption but also a very comfortable drive in the upper output level of up to 200 hp.

New assistance systems expand broad offer of innovative technologies

Further highlights which help to elevate the technical standards to an even more advanced level are also to be found in the field of driver assistance systems. Many premium technologies that have had their debut in the Insignia and the Zafira Tourer are now also available for the new Astra line-up for even more safety and comfort. These include the second generation Opel Eye front camera with the enhanced Traffic Sign Assistant (TSA II), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Following Distance Indication (FDI) and Forward Collision Alert (FCA). These systems issue warnings to help prevent critical situations for example when the driver is distracted or loses concentration.

Other assistance systems include the Rear View Camera, Advanced Park Assist (APA) that identifies spaces and aids with parking, as well as a Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) and a Radar based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with automatic Collision Imminent Braking (CIB) which works in the range of 50 km/h to 180 km/h. The ACC helps the driver maintain the selected speed by automatically accelerating or decelerating while keeping a pre set safety distance to the vehicle ahead.
The new systems complement the already existing broad Astra offer of innovative technologies, some of which are unique in the compact segment, while others are rarely found among competitors. These include the latest generation of intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) with Bi-Xenon headlamps and a host of sophisticated lighting functions, including High Beam Assist, Dynamic Curve Light, Cornering Light, and variable light distribution that automatically adjusts according to prevailing conditions, including even the weather.

Fresh Astra design with more sporty and upmarket accents

The Astra five door and the Sports Tourer have been given a fresh face that is even more, sporty and upmarket than before. This also applies to the new four-door Astra sedan. The Opel design team concentrated on the front by giving it a more pronounced lower grille inspired by the design of the recently launched Astra GTC, featuring a grille mesh with a more technically precise design. The upper grill of the five door, Sports Tourer and the four door sedan has been given a more prominent wing like chrome bar with three-dimensional visual depth to it. The new chrome bar has turned up tips, is more centered and appears to be floating in the grille. By adding black inserts to the headlamps, the entry level “Essentia” and the “Enjoy” trim levels have been given a more sporty design execution of the lights. LED daytime running lights are now also available with standard halogen headlamps.

At the rear, the license plate pocket of the Astra five door has been sculpted in a new way creating more visual width. In both the five door and the Sports Tourer, there is a new chrome strip in the bumper just below the license plate pocket that also adds to the impression of width.



The new BiTurbo high performance diesel variants of the five door, Sports Tourer and GTC have been given an even sportier and sharper exterior appearance which varies from model to model. The front fascia of the BiTurbo Astra body versions (GTC, Sports Tourer and 5-door) underscore the cars’ high performance and more aggressive nature. The upper grille has a similar shape as the one used on the Astra GTC, however the front bar is always in body color and the five door sedan and Sports Tourer BiTurbo models feature the new wing-shaped bar across the grille. The lower air intake area has also been given a sporty design treatment: the area where the central grille merges into the outer grille has been sculpted in a shark fin like shape, making the car appear more aggressive than a conventional Astra. The side window surround has chrome inserts. At the rear, two exhaust tail pipes and a more prominent rear bumper shape, give the car an added muscular stance.

Inside the cabin, the Astra five door, the Sports Tourer and the four door sedan have been made sportier, more lively and varied by using new fabrics, colors, décor moldings with new glossy paint. In the case of the BiTurbo models, JetBlack colored fabrics or leather are combined with Magic Red in the edge of the seats. Magic Red stitching and seams in the seats, door inserts and the gear shifter boot add to the sporty atmosphere of the interior. A new flat bottom leather steering wheel and special floor mats with red surrounds are other sporty components of the BiTurbo cabin.
Astra customers can now also benefit from new wheel designs. New 17” alloy wheels come as standard in the Sport trim level and there are two new optional 18” and 19” alloy wheels, both with a 5 double spoke stylish design. In addition, a new sporty multi spoke wheel alloy style cover makes its debut in the Astra.



Astra continues Opel’s compact success story
With the greatly enhanced new Astra line up Opel is building on the success of its bestselling compact car that won numerous awards including the prestigious German Golden Steering Wheel (2009) and was recently recognized with the best rating in the 2012 DEKRA used car quality report.

The Astra model family is a key component of the brand. Around a third of all Opel cars sold are Astras. Opel is now into its tenth generation of vehicles in the compact segment and its fourth Astra generation which has gained more than 641,000 customers across Europe. Thanks to its five-door Astra launched in the fall of 2009, followed by the Sports Tourer a year later and the three door GTC Coupé (late 2011). This means that the Astra is the European number three (Germany: number two) in the sales ranking in the largest vehicle segment in Europe which makes up around a quarter of the entire marketplace.

Prices for the new Opel Astra line up start at 16,770 Euro (recommended retail price in Germany including VAT) for the five door, 1.4 liter gasoline 64 kW/87 hp Astra entry level “Essentia” version. The new four door Astra sedan with a 1.4 liter gasoline engine 74 kW/100 hp can be ordered from 18,270 Euro (same conditions as above).

500,000th Opel Insignia leaves Rüsselsheim plant

• 500,000th Insignia is a Sports Tourer with the new 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI engine
• Insignia success story continues with national and international awards
• Rüsselsheim plant combines compact and mid-size cars on one assembly line

The 500,000th Opel Insignia has left the assembly line of the Rüsselsheim plant in Germany in a ceremony attended by the Plant Director Axel Scheiben. The vehicle in question is a white Insignia Sports Tourer station wagon equipped with the state-of-the art 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI engine (143 kW/195 hp output, 400 Nm torque) which had its debut in February.

“I and all the employees here at this plant are very proud of today’s achievement. Since the Insignia’s launch in October 2008, our staff went the extra mile, “says Scheiben. “Right from the start we knew that the Insignia was a true winner. I am delighted that the 500,000th Insignia is equipped with the latest two liter BiTurbo diesel engine. The new unit was launched very recently and has already enjoyed very positive feedback from the media and customers.”

Insignia 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI: sequential double turbo and twin-intercooler system

Apart from the sequential turbo system with two different sized turbochargers, the Insignia 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI is the first time a passenger vehicle has been equipped with a twin intercooler system with two completely separate cooling circuits. Thanks to its sequential double turbo system with two charging stages, the Insignia is designed to deliver especially agile, responsive and fluid performance under acceleration. This is especially true of the Insignia Sports Tourer which when fitted with the six speed manual gearbox, Start/Stop and forward wheel drive can sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in just 8.9 seconds and reach a top speed of 225 km/h. While performance is high, fuel consumption is as low as 5.1 l/100 km and CO2 emissions only 134 g/km.

Apart from the 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI unit, the Insignia family offers a further three diesel engines and four more diesel powertrains. On the gasoline side, the new 1.4 Turbo ecoFLEX (103 kW/140 hp) is one of the most efficient engines of the midsize segment where fuel consumption is as low as 5.7 liter per 100 kilometers and 134 g/km CO2.

Insignia Success Story

Since its debut in 2008, the Insignia has won more than 50 national and international prizes, including the prestigious “Car of The Year Award 2009”. In terms of reliability, the Insignia was declared the best used car in the mid-size vehicle segment (September 2011) by the German used car watchdog, “GTÜ” (The Association for Technical Supervision). In addition, the Insignia scored a major success in the 2012 DEKRA used car report, the second time in a row. The vehicle was the segment leader for the lowest amount of faults. The praise by the car experts is also reflected in customer demand with Russia currently leading the league table in terms of sales growth. In 2011, about 150,000 Insignias were sold in Europe with the UK and Germany still the biggest markets with 46,000 and 26,000 respectively.

Of all the Insignia cars produced in Rüsselsheim around 40 percent are Sports Tourers, 40 percent hatchbacks and the remaining 20 percent of vehicles are notchbacks.

Ultra Modern Rüsselsheim Plant

The state-of-the art plant in Rüsselsheim began operating in January 2002 and is home to the only General Motors owned factory in Europe that can assemble vehicles from two segments on one assembly line: in this case compact and mid-size vehicles.

 

Rüsselsheim produces 60 vehicles an hour or 860 a day, among them the hatchback, notchback and Sports Tourer body styles of the Insignia as well as the five door Astra. The assembly line therefore requires a high degree of flexibility. The 770 fully automated robots on the line have been programmed to distinguish between all the different models and are able to process around 12,900 different parts used to build the Insignia. Some 3,000 thousand workers work a two-shift pattern in the plant that is one of the most modern car manufacturing plants worldwide.

SPY: Opel Astra J Facelift

In the fall 2012, the Opel Astra J receive a minor facelift. In addition to new colors and upholstery, there will be slight adjustments to front and rear. Supposedly the index to the front and rear can be improved. The motors will be a new 1.4, 1.6 and 2.0 liter petrol engines. The new 1.6 liter turbo direct-injection engine is just under 200 hp  power.

A new supposedly very efficient - 1.6 liter CDTI turbodiesel engine will also move into the range of the Astra J.

Opel Astra J gets the 195 hp BiTurbo diesel engine, which not only powerful, but also to be efficient. Moreover, coming from the Opel Zafira Tourer known assistance systems deployed, including Adaptive Cruise Control, Advanced Park Assist, Side Blind Spot Alert and Rear Park Camera.

At the same time, the Astra J sedan will debut with a length of 4.67 meters and 1.48 meters high.

 

The new seven speed dual-clutch transmission will debut in 2014 in the next generation Opel Corsa.

The new Opel Astra J GSi will be available as 5 door hatchback in November 2012 with 220 hp 2.0 liter petrol and 195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo diesel engines.

Opel Astra J GSi interior