Additional Power and Range, Same Price: New Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer Plug-in Hybrid

• New: Now with 144 kW (196 hp) system output and electrified seven-speed dual-clutch transmission
• Additional range: Electric range of up to 83 kilometres (combined (EAER) acc. to WLTP1) with 17.2 kWh battery
• Order books open: Astra Plug-in Hybrid from €38,460, Astra Sports Tourer Plug-in Hybrid from €39,960 (all prices RRP incl. VAT in Germany)

Sporty, elegant, practical, comfortable and highly efficient: these are the qualities that distinguish the Opel Astra and Opel Astra Sports Tourer. In addition, the compact class bestsellers offer a variety of drives like no other Opel model. Battery-electric, as a plug-in hybrid, with a highly efficient combustion engine and also as a hybrid with 48-volt technology – customers have the full choice, which is now becoming even more attractive. Because from now on, Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer are available with a new plug-in hybrid drivetrain. The advantages for customers are manifold: With 144 kW (196 hp), the new plug-in hybrid offers an increase in output of 11 kW (16 hp) compared to the previous version. At the same time, a larger battery enables additional electric range; Consumption and energy demand, on the other hand, are reduced. And thanks to the new transmission, drivers and passengers enjoy more driving comfort.

“For those who want to drive particularly dynamically and responsibly at the same time without already being fully electric, the new plug-in hybrid in the Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer is exactly the right choice. 144 kW (196 hp) of system power and 360 Newton metres of torque promise brisk driving pleasure. In addition, with the plug-in hybrid customers have the advantage of conserving energy for when it is required. For example, they can switch to purely electric operation in the city. This gives them the freedom to always choose their preferred drive type,” said Opel Germany brand boss Patrick Dinger.

New Opel Astra Plug-in Hybrid is now available for prices starting at €38,460 – and thus not a cent more expensive than before. The starting price for its estate counterpart, Opel Astra Sports Tourer Plug-in Hybrid, is also unchanged at €39,960 (all prices RRP incl. VAT in Germany). The compact-class models thus complement the brand's modernised plug-in hybrid portfolio. The new Opel Grandland is also available with the next-generation plug-in hybrid drive.

New Opel Astra Plug-in Hybrid: Electric range of up to 83 kilometres (combined (EAER) according to WLTP 1)

Those not yet ready to go on all-electric holiday trips, but wanting to commute or drive into the city with zero local emissions, can simply choose the highly efficient plug-in hybrid drive for the Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer. With 144 kW (196 hp) of system output and 360 Newton metres of maximum torque in combination with the new electrified seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, driving pleasure is guaranteed. The five-door accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7.6 seconds (Sports Tourer: 7.7 seconds); the top speed is 225 km/h.

The exemplary interaction of the combustion engine and electric motor ensures balanced performance. The 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine has an output of 110 kW (150 hp). The electric motor of the front-wheel drive car now contributes up to 92 kW (125 hp) instead of 81 kW (110 hp). For emissions-free operation in city traffic and urban areas, the electric mode can simply be selected. Thanks to the increased battery capacity of 17.2 kWh (instead of 12.4 kWh previously) the all-electric and thus locally emissions-free range in accordance with WLTP 1 is up by 26 kilometres to up to 83 kilometres. The new 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine also provides exemplary figures, further reducing fuel consumption. For example, Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer plug-in hybrids require only 12.7-13.1 kWh of electricity and 2.2-2.4 litres of fuel per 100 kilometres 2 (previously 16.3-16.5 kWh of electricity and 1.3 litres).

The new electrified seven-speed dual-clutch transmission increases driving comfort. In contrast to the six-speed dual-clutch transmission used in the hybrid with 48-volt technology, it has an additional gear and has been optimised for the higher performance of the plug-in hybrid.

In addition, new Opel Astra Plug-in Hybrid comes with numerous modern technologies and comfort features as standard in every variant. They range from the multimedia infotainment system, each with a ten-inch colour touchscreen and driver information display, to wireless smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, to the keyless start system ‘Keyless Start’.

[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] 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.

Happy Tenth Birthday Opel Ampera – Opel’s Pioneering Electric Car

• Revolutionary: Opel Ampera established new vehicle segment in Europe in 2011
• Convincing concept: Opel Ampera voted “European Car of The Year” in 2012
• Powerful: 110 kW (150 hp) electric drive unit develops 370 Nm maximum torque
• Stylish and practical: Sleek, futuristic looks, four-seat cabin, five-door versatility

Opel Ampera 

If we want to reach the future climate goals, the share of electric vehicles must increase considerably”, says Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller. Accordingly, Opel will have nine electrified vehicles (EV) on the market by the end of this year – from Corsa-e, Mokka-e, Zafira-e Life, Grandland X plug-in hybrid and the next generation Astra, to the Combo-e, Vivaro-e and Movano-e light commercial vehicles. By 2024, the brand will offer an electrified variant of every model in its portfolio.

However, Opel already made its first contribution to raising EV sales ten years ago, in 2011. With the launch of the Ampera – the first electric car with extended range from a European brand – Opel established itself as a pioneer on the road to electric mobility. The revolutionary, sleek and practical Ampera was Europe’s first electric vehicle to enable “go anywhere at any time” mobility. When it went on sale at the end of 2011, the Ampera founded a completely new vehicle segment in the European automobile market.

Success: Opel Ampera convinces media, excites customers and wins Monte Carlo rally

Opel Ampera received enthusiastic receptions across the board. More than 5,000 “e-pioneers” declared themselves as potential customers even before the car went on sale.

Media were equally impressed, the jury of leading international journalists electing the Opel Ampera and its Chevrolet Volt sister model as winners of the “2012 European Car of The Year” award. In a long term test started that same year by the ADAC German automobile club, the Ampera demonstrated its durability by covering more than 200,000 km in eight years.

Not content with popularity and awards alone, the Ampera proved its mettle in competition too. In 2012, Opel’s extended-range electric vehicle (EREV) won the 13th International Monte Carlo Rally for electric cars and alternative propulsion systems. Winning Opel Ampera was driven by French rally legend, Bernard Darniche and Joseph Lambert, three more finished among the top ten.

Ampera confirmed Opel as an innovation-leader and immediately became Europe's best selling electric car in 2012, with 6,631 units and circa 21.0 per cent share of the European electric passenger car segment. The leading market for the EREV was the Netherlands, followed by Germany and the United Kingdom. Following the end of production in 2015, registrations of the Ampera totalled more than 10,000 units.

Voltec electric propulsion with range extender

The front wheels of the Ampera are electrically driven at all times. A 16 kWh lithium-ion battery pack feeds an advanced, 111 kW/150 hp electric drive unit to deliver between 40 and 80  km of pure electric operation with zero emissions – depending on terrain, driving technique and temperature – when fully charged. According to the regulations for measuring fuel consumption and CO2 emissions at the time, the Ampera consumed 1.2 l/100 km and emitted 27 g/km CO2 combined in the NEDC cycle.

On the road, the Ampera’s Voltec electric propulsion system ensures lively performance. Instant torque of 370 Nm enables zero to 100 km/h acceleration in around nine seconds and a top speed of 161 km/h. The Ampera delivers nearly silent electric drive under battery power and a refined performance even in extend-range drive mode.

Thanks to the Ampera’s intelligent and practical extended-range capability, drivers enjoy peace of mind because they will never be left stranded with a depleted battery.

In addition to a pure battery, zero-emissions driving range sufficient to meet the daily needs of most European drivers, the Ampera also provided a total driving range of more than 500 kilometres thanks to its range-extending petrol engine. This is seamlessly engaged to generate electricity when the battery has reached its minimum state of charge.

Electric drive unit, located under the hood alongside the gasoline engine, consists of an electric traction motor, an electric generator/motor, and a planetary gear set that improves overall efficiency by reducing the combined rotational speed of the electric motors. Unlike a conventional powertrain, there are no step gears.

In extended-range mode, which activates whenever the battery has reached its minimum state of charge, motive power from a generator is seamlessly delivered to the electric drive unit. The generator is driven by a highly efficient 1.4-liter, 63 kW/86 hp gasoline engine.

Most of the time, drivers selected one of the two main driving modes: Normal and Sport. ‘Sport’ mode increases the sensitivity of the accelerator pedal. There are two additional modes for special driving situations: ‘Mountain’ mode ensures sufficient battery energy is available for sustained driving on alpine roads. ‘Hold-charge’ mode preserves the remaining energy capacity of the battery pack by activating the gasoline engine.

T-shaped, 198 kg, 16 kWh (installed capacity) battery pack is positioned in the centre tunnel of the vehicle. It comprises 288 lithium-ion battery cells, configured for optimum performance and durability. It uses a liquid thermal management system and at the time was the only mass-produced battery pack that could be warmed or cooled – an industry first.

Opel Ampera was delivered with a six-meter long charging cable conveniently stowed in the trunk. Using a 230V/6 or 10A power outlet, owners could fully recharge the battery in around nine or five hours respectively and programme the charging time.

Exterior and interior design: Electrifying good looks

Equally as revolutionary as its unique Voltec electric propulsion system was the Ampera’s eye-catching design. Sleek, aerodynamically efficient styling encapsulates a cabin that replaces conventional dials and gauges with high-definition colour displays and touch-screen functionality.

Cabin reflects the ground-breaking nature of the Ampera’s propulsion system. Two interactive, high-definition colour screens denoted the car’s unique character. Replacing conventional instruments in front of the driver is the driver information centre, a reconfigurable graphic display.

Cabin offers all the space, comfort, and convenience features you would expect from a modern compact car: five-door flexibility, comfortable accommodation for four adults, and a seat up/seat down load carrying capacity of 310/1,005 litres.

Fun-to-drive chassis developed for European demands

Ampera handles like a typical Opel. Developed by Opel engineers in Rüsselsheim, its chassis characteristics were honed to satisfy the expectations of discerning customers.

Front suspension is by McPherson struts with aluminium lower control arms and hydraulic ride bushings. Semi-independent rear suspension features a compound crank (torsion beam) which combines the packaging advantages of a conventional torsion beam axle with low weight and consistent wheel camber control.

Advanced friction brake blending system maximizes the energy generated during braking. It allows for maximum regenerative braking through the electric motor, recharges the battery when braking, and seamlessly engages the friction brakes when the pedal is stepped on harder for a fast stop.

Small and Sporty: Sales Start for New Opel Corsa GSi

• Powerful engine: Turbocharging for outstanding throttle response and pulling power
• Agile chassis: OPC chassis set up on Nürburgring “Nordschleife”
• Long tradition: First Opel Corsa GSi debuted in 1988 with 100 hp

New Opel Corsa GSi 

The eagerly-awaited new Opel Corsa GSi has arrived on the market. With turbo boost and OPC chassis the newcomer represents a machine for true connoisseurs. After the Insignia, the Corsa is the second GSi model now on offer. It impresses with its ultra-precise OPC chassis – for exemplary handling and short braking distances. The Corsa GSi is powered by Opel’s lively 1.4-litre turbo with 110 kW/150 hp and 220 Nm of torque (fuel consumption¹ l/100 km: 8.0-7.7 urban, 5.5-5.1 extra-urban, 6.4-6.1 combined, CO₂ g/km 147-139 combined). Mated to a short-ratio, six-speed gearbox, the four-cylinder power unit delivers outstanding punch in second and third gears, as well as a maximum torque plateau from 3,000 to 4,500 rpm.

The “hot hatch” from Rüsselsheim is therefore very quick off the mark (zero to 100 km/h is covered in only 8.9 seconds) and impresses with great elasticity: it takes just 9.9 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear. Top speed is 207 km/h. The sporty Opel Corsa GSi can be now be ordered for €19,960 (RRP including VAT in Germany).

The OPC chassis and the disc brakes with red calipers have been set up on the legendary Nürburgring “Nordschleife” racetrack by Opel’s Director Performance Cars and Motorsport, Volker Strycek. Agile handling and short braking distances are guaranteed, especially when combined with the optional 18-inch light alloy wheels with 215/40 ZR18 sports tyres.

The high performance of the new Opel Corsa GSi is complemented by the athletic exterior looks featuring large air intakes, sculptured bonnet, prominent rear spoiler and precisely modelled side sills. From the front, the bold Opel GSi fascia with large honeycomb grille and the central Opel Blitz supported by two wings, along with the exterior rear view mirror housings in carbon racing-look become visible. The large chrome-ringed design elements that are visually connected in a horizontal line via black crosspieces running across the front, along with the black traverse cleat on the bonnet support the impression of sportiness. The vibrant styling is also present when viewed from the rear. The prominent spoiler on the edge of the roof creates additional downforce, the sporty chrome tailpipe is framed by the vibrant design of the rear apron in body colour.

The feeling of pure sportiness is also conveyed by the interior of the Opel Corsa GSi, especially when the sports steering wheel, leather gearshift knob and aluminium pedals are complemented by the optional Recaro performance seat.

Sporty GSi cars have a long tradition at Opel. The first to raise the adrenalin level were the Manta GSi and the Kadett GSi (115 hp from 1.8 litres) in 1984. Only four years later the 2.0-litre DOHC 16-valve engine in the Kadett 2.0 GSi 16V delivered 150 hp. The first Opel Astra also featured this engine.

Opel Corsa GSi family was founded in 1988 by the 100 hp Corsa A (now a much sought-after classic) and reached a brief hiatus in 2012 with the Corsa D. Until now: Opel Corsa GSi is back.

  ^[1] Values measured according to WLTP and converted to NEDC for comparison.

New Opel Corsa GSi Powertrain Promises Great Driving Fun

• 1.4-liter turbo engine with six-speed manual gearbox optimised for winding roads
• Pure driving precision thanks to the OPC sports chassis
• Recaro seats and sports steering wheel on inside, carbon elements on the outside
• Opel Corsa GSi follows in high-performance wheel tracks of dynamic Opel Insignia GSi

In search of the next corner: Dynamic sports chassis adopted from the OPC version makes the new Opel Corsa GSi ideal for tackling winding roads

When the new Opel Corsa GSi follows the Insignia GSi onto the market this summer, it will be powered by the brand’s punchy 1.4-liter turbo engine with 110 kW/150 hp and 220 Nm of torque (fuel consumption l/100 km^[1]: 7.9-7.8 urban, 5.4-5.2 extra-urban, 6.3-6.2 combined, CO₂ g/km 147-143 combined). Thus 

Opel’s “hot hatchback” is not only quick off the mark (zero to 100 km/h is covered in only 8.9 seconds), it also impresses with great elasticity – on its way to the maximum speed of 207 km/h, the Corsa GSi takes just 9.9 seconds to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear. The “pocket-rocket” from Rüsselsheim is also part of Opel’s Euro 6d-TEMP rollout.

When configuring the engine, which delivers a specific power output of more than 100 hp/litre, engineers specifically optimised responsiveness for great driving fun on winding country roads. Thus, the turbocharged engine with short-ratio, six-speed gearbox impresses with outstanding punch in second and third gears as well as a maximum torque plateau of 3,000 to 4,500 rpm tailor-made for spirited driving.

The Corsa GSi also emits pure precision: The sport chassis known from the OPC version and the brakes with red calipers ensure precise athleticism, outstanding handling and short braking distances also when combined with the optional 18-inch light alloy wheels with high-grip 215/40 R18 tyres.

The high performance of the new Opel Corsa GSi is matched by the athletic exterior looks. It has a characteristic design with large air intakes, sculptured bonnet, prominent rear spoiler and precisely modelled side sills.

From the front, the cheeky Opel GSi fascia with large honeycomb grille and the central Opel Blitz supported by two wings, along with the exterior rear view mirror housings in carbon racing-look become visible. The large chrome-ringed design elements that are visually connected in a horizontal line via black crosspieces running across the front, along with the black traverse cleat on the bonnet support the impression of road-clinging athlete. The vibrant styling is also present when viewed from the rear. The prominent spoiler on the edge of the roof creates additional downforce, the sporty chrome tailpipe is framed by the vibrant design of the rear apron in body colour.

The pure feeling of sportiness is also conveyed by the interior. Opel Corsa GSi driver sits on the optional Recaro performance seat and puts his hands on the sports steering wheel. Select the gear via the leather gearshift knob, put your foot on the aluminium sport pedal and pure driving pleasure commences.

^[1] Values measured according to WLTP and converted to NEDC for comparison.

!NEW! All-New Opel Astra in the Acoustic Lab

• Dynamic, smooth, comfortable: New engines for pleasant sound
• No din: “Dummy heads” as sensitive as the human hearing

In the acoustic lab: New Opel Astra is positioned in the center of the room and is surrounded by numerous microphones.

Silence. It is so quiet in the unusual looking room that you could literally hear a pin drop. The new Opel Astra is positioned in the center of the room and is surrounded by numerous microphones. Is the engine sound of the new compact class star being recorded for the next advertising campaign? Not quite. When the Opel Astra arrives in the acoustic lab, it is still in the final phase of being made ready for series production. The engineers around Bernd Justen are partly responsible for making sure that the new Astra really is a quantum leap. They ensure that the compact class car meets the demanding noise requirements and test the Astra thoroughly in the Opel acoustic lab in Rüsselsheim. Apart from being tested on the comfort and noise evaluation track at the Opel Test Center in Rodgau-Dudenhofen, all new models developed by the carmaker have to come here for final testing.

Meets all noise requirements: All-New Opel Astra in the acoustic lab in Rüsselsheim. 

Noise & vibration: All good under the Opel Astra hood

The dynamic sound of the vehicle while simultaneously delivering excellent running smoothness was always high on the list of specifications of the new Opel Astra. Primarily, the turbo-charged gasoline and diesel engines of the latest generation that power the Opel Astra and make its athletic appearance audible ensure this. “That is only one aspect we check in the acoustic lab,” explains Bernd Justen, Vehicle Performance Manager for compact class cars. Moreover, the Astra is put through an extensive and precisely defined requirements list. “Apart from the appropriate sound of the engine or rolling noise, this includes the sound made by closing a door or the clicking of the indicator. We initially check the simulation-based basic settings. Based on this we keep on working until the Astra meets our noise requirements.”

On the roller test bench: The engines offer a pleasant and dynamic sound experience – and reduces noise levels in the cabin.

The walls and the ceiling of the lab are completely soundproof thanks to noise absorbing materials. During testing, the Opel Astra is driven on large floor rollers, which produce the same resistance the car would experience on the road from wind and rolling friction. “This enables driving with road-like loads. It does not depend on the weather and we can test various scenarios under consistent conditions,” said Justen. These tests include idle behavior, the Start/Stop function and driving under part or full engine load for example. The highly sensitive microphones record all noises so they can be analyzed afterwards.

Meets all noise requirements: All-New Opel Astra in the acoustic lab in Rüsselsheim.

A typical procedure on the roller test bench is ‘full-load, rev-up’ in third gear – a demanding test that the all-new 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo, a four-cylinder Opel unit from the same engine family as the innovative one-liter, three-cylinder engine, passes with flying colors while always remaining within the pre-defined tolerance curve for cabin noise. Just like the three-cylinder engine, the 92 kW/125 hp or 110 kW/150 hp unit was developed with setting new standards in noise and vibration characteristics in mind (fuel consumption combined: 5.5-4.9 l/100 km, CO2 emissions combined: 128-114 g/km). The outstanding refinement was achieved through the noise-optimized engine block design. The implemented measures to reduce the noise level included splitting the oil pan, noise protecting the integration of the cylinder head into the exhaust manifold, designing a sound-absorbing cam cover, decoupling the high-pressure injection valves and trimming the timing chain for quiet concentricity. The test bench quickly reveals that the engineers did an outstanding job: The engines offer a pleasant and dynamic sound experience – and reduces noise levels in the cabin.

“Dummy head” tested: Pleasant sound in the Opel Astra cabin

“Our dummy heads confirm the exemplary noise level,” explains Justen, referring to the weird looking figures in the Opel Astra cabin that are reminiscent of mannequins. Plastic effigies of the human head and shoulder area that possess a perfect replica of all acoustically relevant elements of the human outer ear adorn the seats. “There are highly sensitive microphones fitted in the ears of dummy heads too. They allow us to record and replay noises in the same way that a ‘real’ human would perceive them.” This enables stereo recording and replaying, as well as differentiation between the upward and downward direction of noise, making the dummy’s hearing virtually three-dimensional.

Dummy head: Plastic effigies of the human head and shoulder area that possess a perfect replica of all acoustically relevant elements of the human outer ear are used in the acoustic la

To achieve the desired vehicle sound that is pleasant for occupants, a binaural transfer path analysis and synthesis is conducted using so-called binaural measurements. This enables a distinction between airborne and structure-borne noise source paths. “This allows us to identify and analyze the different sound sources,” explains Justen. Using a noise transfer path model, engineers can identify, for example, which screw needs to be turned to achieve the agreed target value – first virtually and then in reality. If both cases produce satisfactory results, the Astra has taken its next hurdle on the way to production readiness.

Happy Halloween: Opel ADAM Deals Hungry Pumpkins a Blow

With a touch of Schadenfreude: Opel’s successful, stylish and fast lifestyle ADAM turns the pumpkin into a toothless tiger.

The Halloween pumpkins try to munch our car,

But our little ADAM really is a star.

With funky colors or a swing top roof,

It shows the pumpkins it’s no car for a goof.

The scary pumpkins look on in disbelief,

As our funky little ADAM shows them who’s the chief.

One pumpkin tries to block his escape route,

But our ADAM shows him he is anything but cute.

The impression left on the pumpkin’s face,

Proves that the ADAM really is an ace.

Happy Halloween with ADAM Family !

No other model family is as colorful and individual as the Opel ADAM. The ADAM is just as much a stylish city speedster as a cool lifestyle mini and is thus the individualization champion. Countless combination options both on the in and outside, a masculine or more subtle appearance, as an ADAM ROCKS with open air feeling or as an ADAM S or an ADAM ROCKS S with a touch of racing driver feeling make it the bestseller in the trendy A segment for lifestyle minis. Since its launch, around 170,000 customers have found their individual ADAM. Powerful, modern engines with outputs ranging up to 110 kW/150 hp guarantee driving pleasure. 

Furthermore, the ADAM shows that it is an innovation leader repeatedly with its reasonably priced and multiple award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system with 7-inch touchscreen and its personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar that also makes it a powerful 4G LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot. So much continuous pioneering does not go unnoticed. The Opel ADAM has already won the Auto Trophy and the Best Cars Award, is a multiple red dot design award winner and a multiple value champion in the small car segment. The Opel ADAM also show its price consciousness when it comes to the entry-level price: The unconventional lifestyle mini is available from a mere €11,950 (RRP including VAT in Germany).

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

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

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

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

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

New State of the Art Drivetrain

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

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

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

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

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

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

DYNAMIC HANDLING AND PERFORMANCE

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

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

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

SPORTY LOOK AND REVOLUTIONARY INTERIOR DESIGN

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

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

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

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

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

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

DEMOCRATISING TECHNOLOGY AND SAFETY

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

More connectivity and convenience for meaningful innovation

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

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

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

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

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

Model Line-up and Pricing:

Corsa 1.0T Essentia                        R 185 500

Corsa 1.0T Enjoy                             R 216 200

Corsa 1.4 Enjoy AT                         R 216 500

Corsa 1.0T Cosmo                          R 236 300

Corsa 1.4 T Sport                            R 255 200

Option Packages:

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

R 12,200

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

R 15,600

Corsa Enjoy Option Pack 1: IntelliLink                                                                                                

R 4,000

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

R 8,000

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

       

R 5,000

!NEW! Opel Continues To Grow In South Africa

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

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

Opel Corsa

Opel Mokka SUV

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

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

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

!NEW! Rugged Pocket Rocket: Opel ADAM ROCKS S from 19.990 Euro

• Ready: Order books for the latest member of the Opel ADAM family now open
• Fast: From 0 to 100 km/h in 8.5 seconds, top speed of 210 km/h
• Dynamically robust: Masculine outdoor look with sporty feeling
• Immediate help: Personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar available as an option for all ADAM models

Dynamic symbiosis: Opel ADAM ROCKS S combines the athleticism of the ADAM S with the rugged look of the ADAM ROCKS.

Anything but cute and anything but slow was the claim when the brand new Opel ADAM ROCKS S was presented to the public at the Amsterdam Motor Show this spring. Now the mini-crossover with racing flair is ready to sprint to the customers. Opel ADAM ROCKS S can be ordered for prices starting at euro 19.990 (RRP including VAT in Germany). For this price, buyers will receive the perfect symbiosis of adventurousness and athleticism. On the outside, the 3.75 meter long Opel ADAM ROCKS S shows its rugged, masculine charm; under its hood, it can look to a powerful 1.4 liter turbo with 110 kW/150 hp. On the inside, the newcomer does not just dazzle with the Opel ADAM-typical extensive choice of trim and individualization possibilities including IntelliLink infotainment technology – it can also look to the groundbreaking personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, thus guaranteeing outstanding entertainment and safety.

The best of both worlds: Opel ADAM ROCKS S for freedom-loving sporty drivers

Better an Opel ADAM ROCKS with rugged features, optional SwingTop canvas roof, underride protection look along with distinctive off-road front, side and rear claddings, or maybe the Opel ADAM S with specific roof spoiler, performance steering and chassis along with amble horsepower under the hood? The decision is easy now as the two possibilities can be combines. The sporty mini-crossover Opel ADAM ROCKS S offers the best of both worlds.

Opel ECOTEC 1.4 Turbo with 110 kW/150 hp and 220 Nm of torque

The 110 kW/150 hp ECOTEC engine impresses with 220 Nm of torque on tap and a top speed of 210 km/h. Opel ADAM ROCKS S accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.5 seconds. However, it also boasts great elasticity and makes the transition for 80 to 120 km/h in 5th gear in just 7.9 seconds. The power is transmitted via a short ratio 6-speed gearbox. Despite its sporting credentials the Opel ADAM ROCKS makes do with a mere 5.9 liters of gasoline per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle (equivalent to 139 g/km of CO2).

New Opel ADAM ROCKS S feels especially at home on country roads that play to its strengths. The dynamic performance chassis, which has been lowered by 15 millimeters compared to the Opel ADAM ROCKS, and a direct and responsive steering create pure driving pleasure, especially on winding roads. The high-performance brakes and the ESP system that can be switched off offer drivers the possibility of safely pushing the rocking athlete to its limits on suitable roads.

Outstanding connectivity and safe: Opel OnStar for the successful lifestyle mini

Just like its ADAM siblings, the ADAM ROCKS S offers assistance systems and features that are unrivalled in this segment. For example, Side Blind Spot Alert is available as an option to increase safety. It uses the ultrasonic sensors to warn the driver of an imminent collision when changing lanes. If the electronic guardians pick up an object on collision course, a LED warning appears in the relevant exterior door mirror. Side Blind Spot Alert works in speeds ranging from 11 km/h to 140 km/h. Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) also comes as part of Advanced Park Assist (APA), available for euro 580, that automatically steers the Opel ADAM ROCKS S into a suitable space.

But that is not all. Apart from the award-winning IntelliLink infotainment system, the rugged athlete can also be ordered with Opel OnStar, just like all other Opel ADAM models. The groundbreaking personal connectivity and service assistant takes on-board connectivity to a new level. Opel OnStar turns the car into a powerful 4G/LTE mobile Wi-Fi Hotspot. Up to seven devices can be connected to it. Furthermore, the system offers a wide range of safety and comfort services ranging from 24-Hour Emergency Call Service to Roadside Assistance. The services offered by the personal guardian angel are available free of charge for the first 12 months after activation. The hardware for Opel OnStar comes as standard for the trim levels ADAM GLAM and ADAM SLAM. For the other family members it costs euro 490.

!NEW! Affordable High-Tech: New Opel Astra Tough on CO2 and Prices

• Gasoline power: Most fuel efficient model in the compact segment
• New generation whisper diesel: Fuel consumption as low as 3.4 liters
• Performance: Mid-range acceleration improved by up to 32 percent
• Outstanding, affordable innovations: IntelliLux LED^®, Opel OnStar and Ergonomic seats 

Irresistible: New Opel Astra is lighter, more efficient and only comes with engines of the latest generation – all for an attractive price.

Making leading technologies and features available at affordable prices: Opel set itself a very ambitious goal when developing the new Astra. As a result, the new Opel Astra makes a quantum leap: it is light and agile, it is the pinnacle of the segment in terms of efficiency thanks to new, high-tech engines, and it introduces innovative technologies and services previously only known from higher categories in the popular compact class.

The Astra’s new entry engine, the 77 kW/105 hp, three-cylinder 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo, simply makes Opel’s new star the cleanest and most economical gasoline powered model in the compact class with fuel consumption of only 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers and emissions of 96 grams of CO2 per kilometer when combined with Start/Stop technology and the Easytronic 3.0 automated transmission. On the diesel side, three versions of the new generation 1.6 CDTI ‘whisper diesel’ are offered with 70 kW/95 hp to 100 kW/136 hp which, when combined with the 6 speed manual gearbox, all consume less than 4.0 liters of fuel in the combined cycle: the most economical available to date only requires 3.4 liters per 100 kilometers (90 g/km CO2).

Thriftiness champion: Diesel fans will be able to order the new Opel Astra 1.6 CDTI from 20,260 – the entry-level diesel is thus euro 650 cheaper than its predecessor.

The new Opel Astra introduces Full Matrix LED lighting in the compact segment – a technology so far only available in luxury models. Its price is truly sensational – Opel offers its new revolutionary adaptive IntelliLux LED®  system from euro 1,150 (all prices RRP including VAT in Germany), 100 euro below the price of the BiXenon AFL+ of the previous generation.

Opel IntelliLux LED: Consisting of 16 LED segments – eight on each side of the vehicle – the new LED matrix system automatically and constantly adapts the length and distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation.

The new Astra is also the first car to be launched with the premium Opel OnStar service. The personal connectivity and service assistant provides Astra occupants with a 24/7, 365 days a year guardian angel. The system will be standard in Astra’s upper trim levels Dynamic and INNOVATION and the first year of use will be free of charge. The new Astra also benefits from the new generation IntelliLink infotainment system: the new R 4.0 IntelliLink featuring a 7-inch touchscreen and allowing extensive smartphone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is standard from Enjoy. Opel’s new generation ergonomic seats, tested and certified by independent back and health specialists from the German AGR (Campaign for Healthy Backs) organization, are yet another highlight. Continuing its tradition of making the best in seat engineering affordable to a wide audience, Opel offers ergonomic driver seat from 390 euro.

When the Opel engineers and designers set about their task of continuing the brand’s 80-year long Kadett and Astra tradition in the compact class segment their main focus was on propelling the new Astra to the top of segment as far as overall efficiency is concerned. Every component of the vehicle architecture was engineered for compact design. The lightweight materials and processes resulted in each new Astra being at least 120 kilograms and up to 200 kilograms lighter than their corresponding version of the previous generation. Combined with new generation powertrain technology, these measures benefit fuel economy and CO2 efficiency. But they also give the new Astra a dynamic temperament: it is more agile, more precise, corners better and provides a more direct overall driving experience. It has also livelier performance and benefits from a better responsiveness.

Only the best: The latest powertrain portfolio

Only engines of the latest generation power the new Astra with outputs ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 100 kW/150 hp and displacements of 1.0 liter to 1.6 liters. All these engines, gasoline and diesel, have three things in common: they combine outstanding efficiency with excellent responsiveness and an exceptional smoothness.

Class-leading: The all-new 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with 77kW/105 hp is the cleanest and most frugal gasoline engine in the compact class.

At launch this fall, the new Astra’s base engine is the three-cylinder 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo that was previously introduced in both ADAM and the Corsa. So far, it has stood out with its vitality and silence. In the new Astra, it sets new standards in fuel economy for a gasoline engine: with a consumption of only 4.2 liters per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle and emissions of only 96 grams of CO2 per kilometer - the best values for a gasoline powered compact car – when combined with Start/Stop and the Easytronic 3.0 automated five-speed transmission. And even when it is combined with a conventional 5-speed transmission, the CO2 emissions of this 77 kW/105 hp strong and lively engine remain at only 99 g/km (4.3 liters/100 km). This entry version is available from a very reasonable euro 17,960.

A completely new four-cylinder gasoline engine from the same family as the smaller one-liter, three-cylinder also makes its premiere in the new Opel Astra: 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with outputs of 92 kW/125 hp and 110 kW/150 hp. With Start/Stop technology and a 6-speed manual transmission, its fuel consumption in the combined cycle is just 4.9 liters per 100 kilometer (114 g/km CO2) – an impressive 11 per cent improvement compared to the previous generation 103 kW/140 hp Astra. Performance has also dramatically improved: equipped with the 110 kW/150 hp unit, the new Astra requires 4.3 seconds less than its predecessor for the sprint from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear – an improvement of an incredible 32%.

Quiet and Economical: 1.6 CDTI ‘whisper diesel’ will be available with three outputs 70 kW, 81 kW and 100 kW.

The 1.6 CDTI ‘whisper diesel’ with three outputs starting at 70 kW/95 hp covers the diesel offer. Prices for the entry-level diesel start at euro 20,260 – euro 650 less the current entry-level diesel. CO2 emissions of all variants equipped with the 6-speed manual transmission are at the very most 99 grams per kilometer. So far, the efficiency champion in the new Astra family is the 81 kW/110 hp model, with fuel consumption of a mere 3.4 liters and CO2 emissions of 90 grams. As for the top-end diesel version of the new Opel Astra, it is powered by the 100 kW/136 hp 1.6 CDTI that was introduced last spring in the current model. Thanks to its substantial weight reduction, the new Opel Astra consumes and emits less than its comparable predecessor – with only 3.7 liters per 100 kilometers in the combined cycle (vs 3.9 liter) and 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer (vs 104) respectively. At the same time, it also boasts more powerful accelerations: it requires 9.6 seconds to reach 100 km/h from standstill (minus 0.7 seconds) and, more importantly, 8.2 seconds to get from 80 to 120 km/h in fifth gear – a full second quicker than its predecessor.

Outstanding connectivity and infotainment

Elsewhere the new Astra is a prime example of Opel’s ambition to democratize technologies and innovations from higher segments and make these innovations affordable. The next generation Astra is the first new Opel model that will be available with the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar from its launch. Opel OnStar offers customers a broad range of safety and comfort services including automatic crash response, roadside assistance and a 4G LTE mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. The Dynamic and INNOVATION trim levels receive Opel OnStar as standard equipment (optional in Essentia and Enjoy), and the entire OnStar portfolio of services will be free of charge for subscribers for the first 12 months.

Fully connected: The new generation of the IntelliLink infotainment system, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, will celebrate its debut in the new Opel Astra. 

Furthermore, a new generation of IntelliLink infotainment systems will celebrate its debut in the Astra. The Radio R 4.0 IntelliLink is standard in all trim levels from Enjoy upwards. It comes with a 7-inch touchscreen, a Bluetooth interface and is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, which greatly facilitates bringing the world of smartphones into the car – a premiere in the compact class segment. A new, upscale Navi 900 IntelliLink system with a large, 8-inch touchscreen and embedded navigation for over 30 European countries is offered as an option on all variants.

High-quality cockpit: The interior of the new Opel Astra is characterized by an especially clear look, also reflected by the reduced amount of control switches and buttons along with the large color touchscreen in the center stack.

Premium technologies at affordable prices

And, there is another absolute novelty and safety highlight in the new Astra. Opel’s new star introduces the ground-breaking, Opel patented Full-LED Matrix light of the next generation, IntelliLux LED® for the first time in the compact segment. So far, this technology has been reserved for upmarket cars from the luxury and premium segments. It enables driving with glare-free high beams and is offered for prices starting at euro 1,150. Given that over 200,000 Astra from the previous generation have been equipped with the BiXenon AFL+ adaptive lighting system (a euro 1,250 option), it is extremely likely that customers of the new Astra will be attracted by the even more capable IntelliLux LED® technology and its benefits in safety and comfort.

IntelliLux LED®: The ground-breaking, Opel patented full-LED matrix light of the next generation enables driving with glare-free high beams and will be available in the compact class for the first time in the Astra.

Apart from Opel OnStar and IntelliLux LED®, future Astra owners can look forward to a string of further safety, driver assistance and comfort systems – many of which are unrivalled in this segment. The third generation Opel Eye front camera with Traffic Sign Assistant and the Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning along with Following Distance Indication and the Forward Collision Alert with Collision Imminent Braking make driving the new Astra more comfortable and safer from euro 500.

The AGR (Campaign for Healthy Backs) tested and certified ergonomic front seats of the new generation are also available for extremely competitive prices starting at euro 390 – for the driver seat. These seats continue Opel’s tradition in leading, affordable ergonomics and now optionally come with additional comfort features such as a massage function, ventilation and seat-width setting – a unique combination in the compact class.

The all-new Opel Astra is therefore not only lighter, more agile and more efficient. It is also more economical, more comfortable, safer, and more attractive than ever before, thanks to the high tech innovations it introduces at very attractive prices in the compact segment.

Downloads: All-New Opel Astra MY 2016 - Price List and Tech Specs. (GER)