General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) is reporting its second consecutive year of record global sales. In 2014, the company and its dealers delivered 9,924,880 vehicles around the world, surpassing by 2 percent the record set in 2013.
“GM is making solid progress and has good momentum. Our customer focus, the new cars, trucks and crossovers we launched in China and North America, technologies like OnStar with 4GLTE and the revitalization underway at Opel helped us achieve another record year, despite very challenging market conditions in different parts of the world,” said GM CEO Mary Barra.
Among GM’s major launches are the new Opel Corsa E, which arrives in European showrooms later this month and the Chevrolet Trax small crossover in the United States, which began arriving in showrooms in December 2014. In addition, GM is increasing U.S. production of the Chevrolet Colorado and GMC Canyon mid-size pickups, which launched late last year. Launches in China include three Chevrolets, two Buicks and two Cadillacs. OnStar is also expanding into Europe and launching 4GLTE service in China.
Deliveries in North America rose 6 percent in 2014 to 3,412,714 units and the company’s estimated market share of 16.9 percent was equal to 2013.
The redesigned full-size pickups and large SUVs introduced by Chevrolet and GMC starting in the second half of 2013, along with the Cadillac Escalade, were major contributors to the company’s success in North America. Dealers delivered almost 1 million units in the United States alone, up 11 percent year over year, which helped drive average transaction prices to a full-year record of nearly $33,900, up about $2,600 from 2013, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates.
Deliveries in China rose 12 percent to a record 3,539,972 and the company’s estimated market share increased 0.6 percentage points to 14.8 percent. Chevrolet, Cadillac, Buick, Wuling and Baojun all set annual sales records.
GM and its joint ventures expanded their lineup with several new and refreshed models in China, including the Buick Envision premium midsize SUV, Chevrolet Trax and Sail 3 family car, Cadillac ATS-L luxury sport sedan and Baojun 730 family vehicle.
Global Sales Highlights (vs. 2013)
Chevrolet sales in China were up 10 percent to a record 717,007
units, sales in the United States were up 4 percent to more than 2
million units and the brand was the market leader in South America.
Global sales were down 4 percent, reflecting Chevrolet’s repositioning
in Europe and weak industry conditions in a number of the brand’s major
markets.
Cadillac increased its sales 5 percent on the strength of a 47
percent increase in China, where sales reached a record 73,500 units.
Buick delivered nearly 1.2 million vehicles, with sales in North
America and China both up 13 percent. In the United States, the Buick
Encore has become the industry’s best-selling small crossover. On a
global basis, the Encore ended 2014 with sales of 138,218 units, up 42
percent.
Opel/Vauxhall delivered almost 1.1 million vehicles in Europe in
2014, and had its highest sales and market share since 2011. Sales in
the region were up 3.4 percent, which nearly doubled the industry’s 1.8
percent increase. Sales were up in 16 European countries.
In the United States, Chevrolet and GMC increased their combined
share of the retail market for large pickups by a full percentage point
to 38.9 percent. The brands’ retail share in the large SUV segment was
up 7.8 points to 74.7 percent.
Sales and market share increased in Europe in 2014 despite difficult environment
Company expects further increase this year due to model offensive
85,000 orders for the new Corsa E
Driving force: New Opel Corsa E, which has already been ordered 85,000 times, is on its way to the dealers
In spite of the difficult economic environment, 2014 ended on a high for Opel/Vauxhall with the carmaker recording its best sales figures in recent years. According to preliminary figures, the company delivered around 1.076 million vehicles in Europe last year. This is equivalent to an increase of 35,000 cars or three percent. Opel thereby outgrew the overall European market that only registered growth of two percent. Opel’s share of the overall European vehicle market was up for the second year running – by 0.1 percentage points to 5.74 percent. Opel achieved its best sales figures and market share since 2011.
Successful: Opel ADAM has impressed in the trendy small car segment
“We recorded growth in more than 15 markets. Our modern range of cars managed to impress especially in the most important European markets,” said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group. Amongst others, Opel grew in Germany, the United Kingdom, France, Italy and Spain. Opel booked its largest sales volume increases in Poland (+ 42 percent), Ireland (+ 33 percent) and Portugal (+ 28 percent). The market share grew in more than twelve European countries.
Bestseller: Opel Mokka is the star in the sub-compact SUV segment
The economic situation in Russia where sales of the entire industry were down considerably in 2014 had a negative impact on the overall result. “Russia is one of our most important markets. Opel is obviously suffering from the ruble devaluation and buying resistance. The fact that we managed to increase our sales on a pan-European level in 2014 fuels our optimism for this year. We will definitely not rest on our laurels,” added Küspert.
Flagship: Opel Insignia played an important role in the good sales figures of 2014
Opel will continue its model offensive this year. The new Corsa E, which has already been ordered 85,000 times, will be at the dealers later this month. The new entry-level model KARL will follow in the summer and the compact model Astra will arrive at the end of the year.
“We will be able to offer our customers the best small car portfolio of all time with KARL, Corsa and ADAM. And our bestsellers, Corsa and Astra, which make up 50 percent of our sales will be renewed,” explained Küspert.
Opel’s large-scale product offensive will see 27 new models and 17 new engines brought to market by 2018 and the company wants to increase its sales figures further in the years to come. The carmaker has targeted a market share of eight percent in Europe by 2022.
Opel has launched the ultimate lifestyle accessory – the Opel ADAM – with LISOF at South Africa’s first design collab, showcasing the magic that occurs when thrilling design meets meticulous engineering.
Opel ADAM is designed for people who seek self-expression through their clothes, lifestyle and cars
The Opel ADAM is Opel’s first entry into the luxury mini vehicle segment, and its range of trend-setting, almost limitless personalisation options allows drivers to display their personality and taste in ways never before seen on South African roads.
“ADAM is designed for people who seek self-expression through their clothes, lifestyle and cars. For this reason, vehicle personalisation using the available choices of colours, wheels and interior design allow owners to be fully involved in the finishing details of their car,” says Christopher Cradock, Opel Brand Manager at General Motors South Africa.
When designing their final garments, LISOF’s 2014 graduating class drew inspiration from the fusion of technology and creativity that optimises the Opel ADAM.
“Launching the Opel ADAM with LISOF perfectly illustrates the attention given to aesthetics and technical expertise in both vehicle and fashion design. In both industries, art and science merge, resulting in fashion and cars that enable individuals to stand out in a crowd,” says Cradock.
“The fact that it is LISOF’s 20th anniversary made our collaboration even more fitting. Design excellence has been part of Opel’s DNA for more than 150 years, and so working with South Africa’s youngest fashion designers who are, in their own industry, establishing a similar heritage of excellence resonated deeply with us.”
The Opel ADAM is an A-segment, 3-door, 4-seat hatchback with firm emphasis on class-leading ergonomics and modern design, dynamic driving experience, superior technology and overall premium build quality.
Personalisation options begin with the exterior paint colours, with funky names such as ‘Red ‘n Roll’, ‘Purple Fiction’, ‘Pump Up The Blue’, ‘The Greyfather’, ‘James Blonde’, ‘Saturday White Fever’, ‘I’ll Be Black’ and ‘Silverwalker’.
Further differentiation happens at the factory by selecting interior fabric and colour schemes, sunroof options and ambient lighting packages dependent on the model selected.
Once at the dealership, a choice of quick-fitment accessories adds a finishing touch, allowing owners to precisely show off their personalities. Customisable items include interior décor elements on the dashboard and doors, rear-view mirror covers, exterior mirror caps, wheel centre-caps, front logo bars, wheel clips for the model-specific 18-inch Twister alloy wheels, aluminium sports pedals and a number of exterior decal packs.
“Owners have the freedom to assemble the perfect look for the exterior and interior of their Opel ADAM, while we take care of features ‘under the hood’,” says Cradock.
These include ecoFLEX® Drive Assist to monitor energy and fuel consumption, allowing ADAM to be driven as efficiently as possible at all times.
City Mode Steering makes city-bound manoeuvring and parking, especially in tight spots, so much easier.
Appealing to the connected lifestyle of the target groups, Opel’s IntelliLink infotainment system provides a fully integrated smartphone connection for a hands-free infotainment experience.
“The Opel ADAM is the first of our ‘new Germans’ to arrive in South Africa, a vehicle that truly delivers on Opel’s promise of precision German-engineered, desirable cars with attractive design and the latest motor technology. All this, combined with the ability to affordably create a vehicle as unique as its owner makes the Opel ADAM much more than a car,” says Cradock. “The Opel ADAM is indeed an exciting urban lifestyle accessory.”
The Opel ADAM arrives in Opel dealerships in January 2015 with three models– ADAM, ADAM JAM and ADAM GLAM. For more information, visit www.opel.co.za.
Largest single Vauxhall area seen at Britain’s biggest classic car show
Seven unique and important vehicles from Vauxhall’s Heritage Centre…
…in addition to impressive line-up from four leading Vauxhall owners’ clubs
Vauxhall D-Type Staff Car at The Cloth Hall, Ypres, Belgium
For the third year running, Vauxhall Motors will be supporting the Lancaster Insurance Classic Motor Show at Birmingham’s NEC on 14-16 November, with a line-up of rare and unique vehicles from its Luton-based Heritage Centre.
But this year, Vauxhall’s presence will be even more impactful, thanks to the support of four of the marque’s leading clubs: the Droop Snoot Group, Autobahnstormers, the Vauxhall Cresta Club and the Chevette Owners’ Group, each of which will be sharing stand space with the manufacturer.
‘We wanted to bring marque clubs together in a stand that had a more cohesive feel for show-goers,’ said Simon Hucknall, PR Manager for Vauxhall Product & Heritage, ‘We also wanted to make a bigger statement about the importance of Vauxhall’s heritage; we’re Britain’s oldest surviving car company with a continuous manufacturing history for 111 years, so our display vehicles needed to support this message.’
Star billing in a year commemorating the centenary of the start of World War One is the D-Type staff car. Vauxhall was one of only a few manufacturers to continue building vehicles during hostilities, and the D-Type saw active service throughout the war. One of only two surviving vehicles in the world, Vauxhall’s Heritage Centre example was built in circa 1916 and has been restored to full working order, even making a trip to Ypres earlier this year for a magazine article.
As a striking counterpoint, nothing comes to close to the VX Lightning concept. Created to celebrate Vauxhall’s 2003 centenary, the Lightning was a product of the now defunct GM Advanced Design studio in Coventry. Rarely seen outside of Vauxhall’s 70-strong heritage collection, the Lightning is fitted with a supercharged 2.0-litre engine producing 240bhp.
2003 Vauxhall VX Lightning Concept
Another rarity – though one that did make production – is Vauxhall’s Chevette 2300HS. Launched in 1976 to satisfy homologation regulations for the DTV (Dealer Team Vauxhall) rally cars, the model represented a conscious effort by Vauxhall to inject drama and excitement into its range. In rally form, it also brought Pentti Airikkala three major wins in his first season.
1979 Vauxhall Chevette 2300HS
Staying with the sporting theme, Vauxhall’s VXR220 also makes an appearance on the stand. This is the very car – a decade ago – that wore the first ‘VXR’ badge, and kick-started an enthusiasts’ brand that has spawned some of the fastest, best-handling and most attainable performance cars on the market. ‘Number One’ weighs just 800kgs and is powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged engine with 220bhp and a 0-60mph time of just 4.2 seconds.
2004 Vauxhall VXR 220
Just about the only figure the next stand-car has in common with the VXR220 is its weight. The Viva HA makes a welcome reappearance at the NEC, marking 50 years since compact car production started at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant, which next year will become the lead production facility for the all-new Astra. Vauxhall’s first compact car, the Viva (a name which will be re-born next year for a new model) was simple, beautifully packaged and immensely popular, with over 300,000 being sold between 1963 and 1966
.
Little more than 10 years after the HA ceased production, perhaps nothing showed Vauxhall’s up-market aspirations more than the Royale Coupe which graces the stand. Costing almost 20 times the price of the Viva at its launch, the Royale took Vauxhall into direct competition with the Rover 3500 SD1 and Ford’s Granada Ghia. All-round independent suspension, a 2.8-litre straight-six ‘cam-in-head’ engine, optional air conditioning were all firsts for Vauxhall. It was also seen as a genuine ground-breaker in its class by the British motoring press.
1979 Vauxhall Royale Coupe
And ground-breaking is something at which Vauxhall has excelled right from the start. Fresh from its attempt at the 2014 London to Brighton run, the 110-year old ‘6HP’ showed how prescient was Vauxhall’s approach to design and engineering. The oldest car on the stand has a body and chassis amalgamated into a single structure made from a wood and steel composite. Driven by a single-cylinder engine, with a two-bearing crank and trembler coil ignition, the 6HP could achieve a top speed of 25mph – quite something in its day.
1904 Vauxhall 6HP
Vauxhall and its partner clubs look forward to meeting show-goers on the stand, which is in Hall 7, Stand 420. More information about the Classic Motor Show can be found at www.necclassicmotorshow.com .
Following on-site investigations at a supplier, Vauxhall is expanding its safety check for Corsa and ADAM back to vehicles registered since February 2014. This is in addition to the vehicles registered since May 2014 that have already been communicated. These additional vehicles may also have been manufactured with the steering system part that did not meet specification and should not be driven prior to inspection.
Vauxhall is connecting with customers via a number of channels. Owners can find out if their vehicle is affected by going to www.vauxhall.co.uk/recall.html and following the instructions on the website. They can also call the Vauxhall Customer Assistance line on 0800 026 0034 (09.00 to 19.00 Monday to Friday and until 17.00 at weekends) or The AA on 0800 553388 (07.00 to midnight 7 days per week). If their car is affected, the customer will also be automatically contacted by letter from Vauxhall using the DVSA (VOSA) recognised recall process utilising DVLA registration information.
The company first became aware of the condition during routine quality controls at the vehicle production plant. Customers who have additional questions can obtain immediate assistance using the numbers above.
Best supplier manufacturing locations honored with Supplier Quality Excellence Award
310 locations recognized for outstanding quality performance.
Opel / Vauxhall Presents Select Suppliers with Quality Awards: In the past twelve months the winners demonstrated above average performance in their work by fulfilling 13 specific quality criteria. As a reward they now receive the Supplier Quality Excellence Award 2014 in Ruesselsheim.
Opel / Vauxhall honors 310 supplier manufacturing locations from all over Europe for their quality performance. It is the third year that the Supplier Quality Excellence Award is presented, and again the number of award winners has increased significantly versus the previous year. In the past twelve months the winners demonstrated above average performance in their work by fulfilling 13 specific quality criteria. As a reward they now received the Supplier Quality Excellence Award 2014 in Ruesselsheim. General Motors (GM) also honors its suppliers worldwide with this award in all other regions.
„Strong suppliers delivering great quality parts are hugely important to the whole automotive industry. Excellent cooperation with our suppliers is essential for Opel / Vauxhall to consistently achieve exceptionally high quality standards. I am delighted that this year a lot more suppliers have met the required quality standards to win this award. They make a significant contribution to the quality of our vehicles,” said Kathy Worthen, Vice President, Purchasing & Supply Chain Europe, Opel Group who handed over the awards together with Mike Ableson, Speaker of the Management Board Adam Opel AG and Vice President Vehicle Engineering Europe, and Thomas Simon, Vice President, Quality, Europe.
Opel/Vauxhall is reaching out to customers of the ADAM and the current Corsa delivered since May 2014. About 8,000 of these vehicles have been manufactured with a steering system part that did not meet specification. To avoid any risk, these cars should not be driven prior to inspection.
As Opel/Vauxhall always puts its customers first, and as this condition concerns their safety, the company is taking immediate action. Opel/Vauxhall is contacting customers via multiple channels. Owners are able to find out by themselves if their vehicle is affected by going to their national Opel website or www.opel.com/recall.html and following the instructions on the website. In case their car is affected, the customer will also be automatically contacted by Opel/Vauxhall.
The company became aware of the condition during routine quality controls at the vehicle production plant. The company is not aware of any accident or injury related to this condition.
Customers who have additional questions can obtain immediate assistance under a hotline number that will be posted as soon as possible on the website.
·ADAM and Mokka to continue Opel brand and product resurgence
·Opel ADAM and Mokka to reach SA roads in 2015
Opel ADAM
General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has confirmed the imminent introduction of two new Opel vehicles to the South African market. The new Opel ADAM and Opel Mokka will be introduced to South Africa for sale in 2015 as part of a global product offensive by Opel which will see the German brand introduce 27 new vehicles and 17 engines in applicable markets by 2018.
Opel Mokka SUV
“As part of the ongoing Opel brand and product resurgence in South Africa, we are excited to announce the introduction of two all new Opel vehicles into the South African market in 2015. The ADAM and Mokka continue the Opel brand’s German heritage which is reflected in their exciting design, engaging driving experience and practical innovations,” says Opel Brand Manager, Christopher Cradock.
“The Opel ADAM and Mokka were shown to the South African public at last year’s Johannesburg International Motor Show, where we experienced overwhelmingly positive reactions from consumers and the media.”
Opel, which is experiencing renewed focus globally, has seen a resurgence in South Africa with Opel vehicle sales up 54% in the first seven months of 2014. GMSA plans to increase its Opel footprint by introducing competitive and exciting new products in key market segments.
In Europe, Opel is investing heavily in the development of advanced new powertrain technology which South African consumers will experience for the first time when the ADAM and Mokka reach South African shores.
“Engine and model derivatives for the local market will be finalised closer to the time of launch, however, we can confirm that both ADAM and Mokka will feature the latest in engine technology and innovative features from the Opel brand,” continues Cradock.
The visionary spirit of Adam Opel lives on
Opel was originally established in Rüsselsheim, Germany, by Adam Opel as a sewing machine manufacturer in 1862. Following a visit to Paris where he was struck by the speed of the bicycle, Opel was inspired by the possibilities offered to urban commuters by an industry dedicated to mobility and soon switched to manufacturing bicycles, Opel’s first foray into mechanical transportation.
Named after the company’s founder, the new Opel ADAM celebrates Adam Opel’s visionary leadership and engineering prowess. The ADAM is a premium sub-compact hatchback which is set to compete with similar lifestyle vehicles in an expanding, fashionable niche segment. It features a lifestyle-focused non-retro design inspired by the latest design cues from Opel, first seen on the Monza concept car.
“The ADAM experience is all about the freedom to create and own an individual, personalised car through which the owner can express their lifestyle preferences and tastes. In addition to customisation, the ADAM offers an exciting and engaging driving experience and as with all Opel vehicles it comes packed with standard innovative technology and specification,” continues Cradock.
“The Opel ADAM will attract a new generation of customers to the Opel brand and open up an exciting world of personalised motoring for drivers looking for an individual driving experience.”
Opel Mokka to shake up growing sub-compact SUV segment
The new Opel Mokka offers the high seating position, extra space, versatility and go-anywhere nature of an SUV, in a compact package with clever proportions. The Mokka has an aggressive design and sporty stance and is set to bring innovation and a quality motoring experience to those who live urban lifestyles.
Available for sale in the second quarter of 2015, the new Mokka range will offer a mix of exciting derivatives specifically designed to suit the varied needs of the South African compact SUV consumer and will be competitively priced while offering high levels of equipment and specification from the entry level up. The Mokka also brings an exciting and engaging driving experience, German engineering and innovative technology to the growing sub-compact SUV segment.
“Over 240 000 Mokka orders have been placed in Europe – this is not only an exceptionally important factor in the growth of the Opel brand on a global level, but also proves that Mokka is a worthy contender in a segment which is experiencing exponential growth all over the world. With Mokka we expect to see a new group of savvy consumers gravitate towards the Opel brand, who seek a fashionable sub-compact SUV which is exciting to drive and offers the solid quality and precision of a German-engineered product,” concludes Cradock.
Engines, specifications and model derivatives will be confirmed closer to the time of launch.
New on Russian market: Opel ADAM, ADAM ROCKS and Insignia OPC
Homage to capital city: Concept Car Opel Mokka ‘Moscow Edition’
Full throttle through the desert: Opel Mokka ‘Dakar’ for toughest rallye in the world
Opel ADAM
Opel ADAM ROCKS
Opel is expanding its model line-up for the Russian market. At the Moscow International Motor Show (MIMS), the brand presents three vehicles with strong emotional appeal that will go on sale in early 2015. The first is the individualization champion from Opel, the ADAM. The stylish small car makes its Russia premiere next to its wild sibling ADAM ROCKS, which features an off-road look and electric canvas roof. From January, the Opel ADAM family will initially be available in Moscow, St. Petersburg and Krasnodar. Also new in the line-up is the most powerful Opel, the all-wheel drive sports star Insignia OPC with a 2.8 V6 Turbo engine pumping out 325 hp and a meaty 435 Nm maximum torque.
Opel Insignia OPC
Opel Mokka ‘Moscow Edition’ study shows exciting design concept
Concept car Opel Mokka ‘Moscow Edition’
The sub-compact SUV from Rüsselsheim is presented in homage to the Russian capital. The design study carries a customized graphic inspired by the Moscow city map: the ‘o’ in the stylized Mokka name, on the hood, roof, rear and inside, represents the city center, its inner circle. The headliner in finest Alcantara adorned with this motif perfectly complements the stylish interior made of premium quality materials. The Mokka’s signature cladding on the nose, front and wheel-arches features a unique very dark-blue tone, perfectly contrasting with the dominant orange body color to give Opel’s bestseller strong off-road appeal.
Opel Mokka 'Moscow Edition': The stylish interior is made of premium quality materials
Opel Mokka ‘Dakar’ racing through South America
In early 2015, a real international endeavor is being launched: the Hungarian Opel-Team Balázs Szalay/László Bunkoczi is again preparing a very special Mokka to take part in the legendary Dakar Rallye. This tough desert race, to be held from January 3 – 17, moved to South America in 2009 and runs through Argentina, Bolivia and Chile. The Mokka ‘Dakar’ is well-equipped for this endurance test with long, 25 cm suspension travel, a huge 520-liter safety fuel tank, body components made from feather-light, high-strength carbon fiber composite material, a sequential, six-speed transmission and a 6.2 liter V8 engine from GM’s motorsport division pumping out 340 hp and massive torque of 660 Nm. Visitors to the motor show can experience this rallye star first hand in Moscow.
New drive: New chassis, new generation engine and transmission technology
New standard: High quality interior with IntelliLink and host of assistance systems
World premiere: Opel’s bestseller to debut in October at Paris Motor Show
New Opel Corsa offers plenty of room for up to five occupants – in both family-friendly, five-door (left) and dynamic, sporty three-door (right) body formats
Opel today reveals the new, fifth generation of the Corsa. Opel’s bestseller aims to offer a new driving experience in the small-car market segment by raising the bar for chassis, engine and gearbox performance. The new, refined and efficient 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo engines, smooth-shifting transmissions, the new suspension and optimized steering deliver class-leading levels of comfort and precision.
New Opel Corsa comes with a totally new interior that enhances the perception of high quality and spaciousness, including best-connected IntelliLink infotainment technology
The new Corsa also comes with a totally new interior that enhances the perception of high quality and spaciousness, including best-connected IntelliLink infotainment technology and ultra-modern driver assistance systems. Opel’s designers have also given the new Corsa a dynamic shape in line with the brand’s design philosophy, introducing flowing, sculptural forms and precise detailing. The new Corsa is equipped with everything required to ensure continuation of 32 years of success in a highly competitive market segment. The fifth generation of Opel’s bestseller will make its world premiere at the “Mondial de l’Automobile 2014” in Paris (October 4 to 19), rolling off the assembly lines in Zaragoza and Eisenach before the end of the year.
Family-friendly five-door body format: Opel’s designers have given the new Corsa a dynamic shape in line with the brand’s design philosophy, introducing flowing, sculptural forms and precise detailing
“The Opel Corsa has always been widely praised, particularly for its appealing looks and an efficient use of space within compact dimensions,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “This has been a decisive factor in the model’s enduring popularity, and we are, of course, carrying this core appeal forward in the new generation. Thanks to many new technologies, we are also offering a fantastic driving experience, which raises the standard in this vehicle class. The fifth Corsa generation will be full of surprises.”
Sporty three-door Corsa: The fifth generation of Opel’s bestseller will make its world premiere at the “Mondial de l’Automobile 2014” in Paris (October 4 to 19)
Recipe for success: Youthful design and generous space in compact dimensions
Five generations at a glance: Opel Corsa B, D, E, C and A (from left)
Across four generations spanning 32 years, almost 12 million Corsas have been sold in Europe, including 2.8 million from the current fourth generation. With average yearly sales of 370,000 units, the Opel Corsa is one of the most enduringly popular models in its segment. A key to its success is outstanding space efficiency: within a compact length of 4 meters, Opel’s bestseller offers plenty of room for up to five occupants – in both family-friendly, five-door and dynamic, sporty three-door body formats. At the same time, the Corsa’s exterior design conveys practicality and strong, stand-out appeal with its youthful, dynamic looks. The new Corsa generation now seamlessly carries forward this recipe for success – while being radically different. Its exterior design is fresher, more sophisticated and has even more character.
Opel Corsa E: The bold face is characterized by the wing shaped headlights incorporating Opel’s signature wing LED daytime running lights
The bold face is characterized by the “wing” shaped headlights incorporating Opel’s signature “wing” LED daytime running lights and the low sporty trapezoidal grille, with its dynamic bar supporting the Opel emblem. The sculptured body sides feature Opel’s typical dynamic “blade” body signature. At the rear end the wide horizontal split tail lights help to visually widen the car and flow through to the rear shoulders, giving it an even better stance. But it’s when you sit in the new Corsa and drive it that the change is the most apparent. The completely new cabin featuring clear, elongated shapes and a mix of sophisticated materials, together with the substantially more comfortable chassis, sharper steering, all-new powertrains and significantly lower noise levels all combine to ensure a completely new driving experience.
Sporty three-door Opel Corsa E
Absolute precision: New chassis and new steering for highest driving stability
New chassis and steering systems: For driving experience comparable to larger, more expensive cars in terms of comfort and precision.
The top priority for the Opel engineering development team was to provide Corsa customers with a driving experience comparable to larger, more expensive cars in terms of comfort and precision. New chassis and steering systems provide the foundation. The chassis does not inherit a single component from the current Corsa. Straight line and cornering stability is increased thanks to a 5 millimeter lower center of gravity, a stiffer sub-frame, a new suspension geometry including a new front knuckle. Roll behavior, steering response and understeer characteristics are all improved. New damping characteristics also give the fifth-generation Corsa better filtration of disturbances from potholes and uneven road surfaces, providing exemplary comfort in a small car.
New damping characteristics also give the fifth-generation Corsa better filtration of disturbances from potholes and uneven road surfaces, providing exemplary comfort in a small car.
The development of a completely new electrical architecture for the fifth generation Corsa enables a more sophisticated level of interaction between its various systems. Together with a new steering geometry and steering software calibration, this enhanced system benefits the new, speed-sensitive electric power steering: it has a more precise response and improves both driving pleasure and comfort. A new standard feature in all Corsa E models that allows reducing steering effort at low speeds, the City mode is easily activated at the press of a button.
Opel Corsa E: City mode button
As for the current Corsa, customers can choose between two chassis set-ups, Comfort and Sport. The Sport chassis has stiffer springs and shock absorbers as well as a specific steering geometry and calibration for a more direct response.
Engine highlight: Latest generation 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo
Powerful: New, refined and efficient 1.0 liter three-cylinder turbo engines
The highlight under the hood of the new so-called “Corsa E” of the fifth generation is the installation of Opel’s newly-developed three-cylinder, 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo, part of the brand’s major powertrain offensive. This ultra-modern pocket powerhouse is the only 1,0 liter three-cylinder production engine with a balance shaft, which enables it set a new class benchmark for exceptionally low noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) characteristics, as well as high driving comfort. The compact, all-aluminum 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo, which of course already meets Euro 6 emission standards, is available in two output configurations, giving 66 kW/90 hp or 85 kW/115 hp. Both shine with excellent responsiveness and strong low-end torque, pumping out 170 Nm from just 1,800 rpm. Opel’s new, small-displacement three-cylinder engine is fitted with Start/Stop technology as standard.
Opel Corsa E: The new, refined and efficient 1.0-liter three-cylinder turbo engines, smooth-shifting transmissions, the new suspension and optimized steering deliver class-leading levels of comfort and precision
The new Corsa’s gasoline powertrain line-up is also extended with the introduction of a new 74 kW/100 hp 1.4-liter turbo engine with 200 Nm maximum torque, as well as further developed, Euro 6 compliant 1.2 and 1.4-liter naturally-aspirated units. In addition, completely revised, more refined and now also Euro 6 compliant 1.3 CDTI engines with 55 kW/75 hp and 70 kW/95 hp expand the Corsa offer on the diesel side. At launch, the most frugal Corsa version – with 70 kW/95 hp, 5-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop – emits just 89 g/km CO2. Additional low emission variants will follow as soon as next spring.
But it is not just completely new and further developed engines that make driving the new Corsa even more fun and comfortable. The introduction of new transmissions also contributes to the enhanced driving experience and improvement in efficiency. Both versions of the 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo are mated to an all-new, compact six-speed manual gearbox. Highlights include greater efficiency, thanks to low friction design and a precise shift feel. Changing gears in the new Corsa is comfortable and smooth, as well as fast and precise. With the launch of the new Corsa, Opel also offers its newest-generation six-speed automatic transmission, as well as the completely new Easytronic 3.0 automated manual transmission giving enhanced, smoother responsiveness – the perfect way to affordably combine the comfort of an automatic with the efficiency of a manual.
Best connectivity with top safety: IntelliLink and Driver Assistance Systems
Eye-catching: The new Corsa comes with a totally new interior that enhances the perception of high quality and spaciousness, including best-connected IntelliLink infotainment technology and ultra-modern driver assistance systems
Cleanly designed, the cabin of the new Corsa is organized around an eye-catching driver control center whose instrument panel fascia is designed around horizontal lines that optically enhance the generous interior spaciousness. The IntelliLink system’s 7-inch color touchscreen is ideally located on the center stack, close to the gear shift. This allows the driver’s hand to swiftly and naturally move between the transmission control and the touchscreen. The new Corsa’s state-of-the-art infotainment system offers best connectivity opportunities, is compatible with Apple and Android devices and can be operated by voice command. Bluetooth and Siri Eyes Free can also be used. Several apps are available such as BringGo for navigation, as well as Stitcher and TuneIn for internet radio and podcasts, and there is a practical FlexDock parking and charging station for smartphones.
Smart: state-of-the-art infotainment system offers best connectivity opportunities, is compatible with Apple and Android devices and can be operated by voice command.
The new Corsa introduces a host of driver assistance systems, many of which are unrivalled in its vehicle class. Safety is increased thanks to new systems that are all available in the Corsa for the first time – such as Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering light (AFL), the Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) and the Opel Eye front camera with Road Sign Recognition (RSR), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), High Beam Assist (HBA), Following Distance Indication (FDI) and Forward Collision Warning (FCW). To provide maximum safety, Forward Collision Alert uses a red, head-up warning that is projected into the windscreen. In addition, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) display warns the driver in the event of excessive pressure loss in one of the tires.
New Instrument panel with large graphic info display
Driving comfort is also improved by the Advanced Park Assist (APA 2) that automatically steers during parking maneuvers, as well as by the Rear View Camera and the Hill Start Assist (HSA). The steering wheel, front seats and now the windshield can all be heated to provide cozy warmth in the cabin and good visibility on cold days. The high-class interior features finely sculpted front seats boasting superb workmanship, a large panorama roof, and pleasant ambient lighting, which lends the cabin a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
New Bi-Xenon headlamps with cornering light and with LED DRL
And for active sportsmen and women, the new Corsa’s characteristic rear end optionally integrates the practical FlexFix bicycle carrier, which is exclusively offered by Opel.
In June overall European vehicle market sales increased by 6 percent
First half-year 2014 growth of 4 percent well above same year-ago period
Market share gains in eleven European countries including Germany
New Opel Insignia registrations increased by almost 50 percent last year.
Opel remains one of the winners on the European vehicle market: in June the manufacturer increased new vehicle registrations by 6 percent over the same year-ago period. With this growth, the company clearly distanced itself from overall market developments, which hovered just under last year’s June level. With around 109,000 new vehicles sold, share of the overall European vehicle market rose by 0.4 percentage points to 6.4 percent according to preliminary figures.
Opel also sold considerably more cars in the first half of the year compared to the same year-ago period. From January to June, the brand increased sales by 4 percent to around 564,000 vehicles, a slight increase in share of the overall vehicle market to 5.9 percent. This put Opel’s growth at one percentage point higher than overall market growth.
“The first half-year results clearly underline that we are on the right track. Especially our new models have joined the ranks of top sellers, including the sub-compact Mokka SUV, which over 245,000 customers have already chosen. And our model offensive continues: the new Vivaro as well as the new Corsa that comes to market this year will give us even more momentum,” says Board Member for Sales Peter Christian Küspert.
Opel Mokka SUV
In June and in the first six months of this year, Opel gained market shares in eleven European markets. The clear upswing was also apparent in Germany, where share of the overall vehicle market increased in the first six months by around 0.3 percentage points to 7 percent. In June, market share even reached 7.6 percent, an increase of around 0.9 percentage points compared to last year and the highest market share since December 2011. On the passenger car market alone, Opel achieved a market share of 8 percent in June, according to the German Federal Office for Motor Vehicles (Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt, KBA).
Opel Zafira Tourer MPV
Opel Mokka was number one in the SUV segment in the first six months of the year in Germany. New Insignia registrations increased by almost 50 percent during this period compared to last year. But also the established models in the Opel portfolio, such as the Zafira Tourer, were successful. Opel Zafira Tourer was number two in the large van segment in both June and in the first half of the year.
In the UK, Vauxhall clearly reinforced its position as the second largest passenger car brand in the first half of the year. In June, the brand grew its share of the overall British vehicle market by more than one-half percentage point to 11.9 percent, taking second place in registration statistics. In both time periods, the Insignia and Zafira lead their segments, while the Corsa and Mokka were both second in their segments.
In Spain, the brand achieved a market share of 7.67 percent in the first half of the year. This was the best result since 2006 and put it in second place in the Spanish registration statistics. In June market share even reached 8 percent. In Hungary, Opel was market leader in the overall vehicle market in June and in the first six months of the year.
Demonstrates excellent fuel economy of Buick Regal
All Buick Regal are ready for fuel saving challenge.
The 2014 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge kicked off on June 30th in Huzhou, Zhejiang. 10 participants drove Buick Regals equipped with 2.0-liter engines to find out who could achieve the best fuel economy.
During the GM China Fuel-Saving Mini Academy, current owners received training on how to save fuel in their daily commutes through onsite driving simulations
They began their journey near Taihu Lake, driving 106 kilometers to Tianmu Lake National Park. The route included the Changshen Highway, city streets and rural roads.
For the first time, vehicle owners as well as potential customers were invited to participate. Special courses were provided to both groups. During the GM China Fuel-Saving Mini Academy, current owners received training on how to save fuel in their daily commutes through onsite driving simulations. At the GM China Fuel-Saving Mini Test Drive, potential customers experienced the Regal on a closed track.
At the GM China Fuel-Saving Mini Test Drive, potential customers experienced the Regal on a closed track.
Buick Regal is a popular upper-medium sedan. It has a sculpted, sporty exterior design and a finely crafted interior. Its aerodynamic “fast back” styling gives it the lowest drag coefficient of 0.27 in its class. The Regal’s optimally designed chassis ensures a smooth ride. Its advanced passive and active safety features have enabled it to receive maximum five-star ratings for safety in the U.S. and Europe.
2014 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge Kicked Off.
Buick Regal buyers have a choice of a 2.4L SIDI intelligent direct injection engine, 2.0L ECO intelligent engine or 1.6 T turbocharged engine. The Regal also comes with a new six-speed auto-manual transmission.
Mr. Fei and Ni were the winners, both achieving fuel economy of 4.9 liters/100 kilometers. The average fuel economy of contestants was 5.5 liters/100 kilometers.
The winner achieved the best fuel economy of 4.9L/100km at GM China Fuel Saving Challenge Huzhou stop.
The annual GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge began in 2011. It was created to demonstrate how GM is addressing demand for high fuel efficiency through the products it builds and sells across China.
The theme of this year’s event is “Use Less Fuel, Have More Fun.” It will feature products from the Buick, Chevrolet and Baojun brands at its three stops across China.
GM China is also once again involving ordinary consumers through its dedicated WeChat platform (GM_China_jieyousai). Visitors to the platform can see photos and videos from all three stops, fuel saving cartoons and tips from the experts.
