2015 gave Opel its best sales performance in Germany since 2011 with over 229,000 new passenger cars being registered. Opel’s sales increased by around 10,300 units compared to the previous year, which is equivalent to growth of 4.7 percent.
On track: The new Opel Astra arrived at the dealerships in October and immediately increased sales in the compact class – in total, Opel sold 56,300 Astras in Germany in 2015.
In December alone, the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker recorded registrations of more than 18,800 new vehicles – an increase of 2,400 units or 15 percent. Compared to the same month of 2014, Opel’s market share was up by 0.5 percentage points to 7.6 percent giving the company its best December passenger car market share since 2011.
The Opel Astra is one of the main reasons for the improvement. 56,300 units of the compact bestseller changed hands – up 21.6 percent compared to the previous years. “That is a remarkable success because the new Astra has only been at dealers since October. Our Golden Steering Wheel winner has given the brand an additional push and will continue to be one of our growth engines this year,” said Jürgen Keller, Opel's Executive Director Sales, Marketing & Service Germany. Opel expects the Astra to deliver further growth, especially as the Sports Tourer, a very popular car in Germany, will be at dealers in the spring.
The Opel Mokka compact SUV was also a guarantee for success. The company sold 31,200 units across Germany in 2015 – an increase of 12.4 percent compared to the previous year. Both the Opel Mokka and the compact Opel Meriva MPV topped their individual segments in 2015.
New car registrations in Europe grow by around 38,000 units
Increase in volume in more than 19 markets – market share also growing
More than 65,000 orders for the new generation Astra
Guarantee for success: Even though the new Opel Astra was only introduced in most European markets in November, it has already been ordered more than 65,000 times
Opel’s upward trend is continuing: The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker recorded significant growth in Europe last month and successfully passed the one million sold vehicles mark in November. With that, Opel and British sister brand Vauxhall are well on the way to improving their sales and market share in 2015 for the third consecutive year.
Bestseller: The combination of athletic design and ultramodern technologies has hit the nerve of the market. The new Opel Astra has already been ordered more than 65,000 times.
In the period from January to November 2015 Opel/Vauxhall’s new car registrations in Europe grew by more than 38,000 units to more than one million vehicles according to preliminary figures. In November alone Opel recorded sales growth of around 9,800 units. Market share increased by more than 0.5 percentage points to 5.89 percent. In the period from January to November, market share improved to 5.81 percent.
Opel was able to increase its sales volume in more than 19 European markets including Germany, the United Kingdom, Italy, Spain, France, Poland and Denmark in the course of the year.
The all-new Opel Astra was one of the pillars of success even though it was only introduced in most European markets in November. To date more than 65,000 orders have been received for the best Opel ever.
“We are on track and our model offensive is bearing fruits. Models such as the Mokka and the ADAM are bullseyes“, said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales and Aftersales of the Opel Group. “Next year we will launch the Astra Sports Tourer and some other new products.”
Opel will systematically continue the biggest model offensive in the history of the company. From 2016 to 2020, the Rüsselsheim-based manufacturer will bring 29 new models to market.
AUTOBEST jury gives award for safety technology in new Opel Astra
IntelliLux LED® Matrix light offers permanent, glare-free full beam
Light system more intense and durable than conventional headlights
Newcomer takes first place: New Opel Astra has won the “SAFETYBEST 2015” award with its adaptive IntelliLux LED® matrix light system.
To each saint his candle: All-new Opel Astra has won the “SAFETYBEST 2015” award with its trendsetting adaptive IntelliLux LED® matrix light system. The AUTOBEST jury consisting of specialized independent journalists from 26 European countries awards the prize. The opinion of the jury was: “The Matrix light technology is a breakthrough in car lighting systems. After extensive tests performed by many of the AUTOBEST Jury members, the system proved to be so effective it earned the nickname ‘magic’.” By winning the award, the new Astra is continuing the success of the new Corsa, which was named the AUTO “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015”:
IntelliLux LED®: Full-LED Matrix Light of the next generation enables driving with glare-free high beams and is available in the compact class for the first time in the new Opel Astra.
The groundbreaking IntelliLux LED® matrix light system enables driving with glare-free high beams and will be available in the compact class for the first time in the Astra at a precisely calculated surcharge comparable to that of conventional adaptive lighting systems. The IntelliLux LED® matrix light is much more than a pure LED high beam as offered by competitors. The intelligent and dynamic system automatically adapts to the current traffic conditions and always offers the best possible illumination. With the introduction of the powerful LED matrix light, Opel is making state-of-the-art light technology previously only available in more expensive luxury class vehicles available to a wider audience.
Award winning: New IntelliLux LED® Matrix system automatically and constantly adapts the length and distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation.
“We are democratizing technology by making innovations affordable and bringing them to high volume vehicles. Our new LED matrix light, IntelliLux, is a perfect example. Our integration of the LED Technology provides outstanding night time performance enhancing safety for the driver and those around them,” said a jubilant Charlie Klein, Vice President Vehicle Engineering at Opel.
Does not dazzle: When Opel IntelliLux detects light sources from oncoming or preceding traffic, individual LEDs in the relevant zone are deactivated, simply “cutting out” the area around the vehicles. The rest of the road and its surroundings remain brightly illuminated.
However, that is not all. The overall package of ultra-modern technologies, outstanding comfort and athletic design is also convincing. The Opel newcomer is also one of five finalists competing for the AUTOBEST “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2016” award.
General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) sold 7.2 million vehicles globally in the first nine months of 2015. The company posted sales increases in four of its five largest markets, with record sales in China and strong retail sales gains in the United States. Total sales were down 1 percent, due primarily to the company’s previously announced decisions to strategically reduce its presence in certain markets, as well as difficult market conditions in South America.
“Our unwavering focus on the customer is paying off in our largest and most important markets as we execute one successful launch after another in the right segments,” said GM President Dan Ammann. “At the same time, we have reacted quickly to challenging macroeconomic environments in other markets and have shown the discipline to exit situations where we see no long-term path to acceptable returns.”
Examples of GM’s recent success include:
GM truck sales in North America were up 16 percent in the first nine
months of 2015, driven by a 17 percent increase in Chevrolet truck
deliveries in the United States.
Chevrolet had record crossover sales in North America in the same period, up 17 percent year over year.
In China, crossovers like the Chevrolet Trax and Buick Envision
represented more than 17 percent of sales by GM and its joint ventures
in September, up from 6 percent a year ago.
Cadillac had record sales in China with deliveries rising 12 percent to nearly 57,000 units.
GM is preparing to launch even more new trucks and crossovers during the next several months, including the all-new Cadillac XT5, a redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and a diesel-powered Chevrolet Colorado for North America, and the Baojun 560 in China. Key car launches include the all-new Chevrolet Malibu and Cruze in North America and the all-new Opel Astra in Europe.
Additional Highlights (vs. 2014)
First Nine Months
In the United States, Chevrolet has reported six consecutive months
of retail sales and market share gains and has strategically reduced
sales to rental companies by more than 50,000 units through September.
Opel / Vauxhall increased its European market share and grew sales in
19 countries, including Italy, Spain, France, the U.K. and Germany.
Buick had record deliveries in China, with sales up 4 percent to nearly 670,000 units.
Baojun had record sales, with deliveries rising 236 percent to more than 270,000 units.
GMC’s global sales increased 11 percent, and four of the brand’s
SUVs and pickup trucks – the Yukon, Yukon XL, Sierra and Canyon – have
the highest average transaction prices of any vehicles in their
respective segments in the United States, according to J.D. Power PIN
estimates.
Third Quarter
Among GM’s largest markets, sales rose in the United States, the U.K. and Canada.
Opel / Vauxhall, Buick, Cadillac, GMC and Baojun all reported higher sales.
Chevrolet had record crossover sales in the United States, up 24 percent, while Chevrolet U.S. truck sales increased 16 percent.
Deliveries in South Korea were up 11 percent to record of nearly 43,000 units.
Global sales were down 3 percent.
GM Global Sales: January - September 2015
Calendar Year-to-Date
Region
Total Sales
YOY Change
Pct. Change
Total Sales
YOY Change
Pct. Change
GM North America
930,758
46,110
5.2%
2,685,342
126,257
4.9%
GM Europe
287,690
3,137
1.1%
898,236
(60,131)
(6.3%)
GM South America
150,142
(66,956)
(30.8%)
485,557
(156,749)
(24.4%)
GM International
191,847
(21,928)
(10.3%)
589,854
(41,525)
(6.6%)
GM China **
773,226
(33,902)
(4.2%)
2,492,428
38,215
1.6%
Total
2,333,663
(73,539)
(3.1%)
7,151,417
(93,933)
(1.3%)
Quarter 3
Calendar Year-to-Date
Sales by Brand **
Total Sales
YOY Change
Pct. Change
Total Sales
YOY Change
Pct. Change
Chevrolet
1,078,847
(112,998)
(9.5%)
3,291,133
(252,280)
(7.1%)
Opel/Vauxhall
272,619
14,007
5.4%
864,338
31,256
3.8%
Buick
300,335
10,858
3.8%
852,289
21,635
2.6%
Cadillac
67,895
997
1.5%
198,993
6,228
3.2%
GMC
176,222
11,100
6.7%
499,343
48,933
10.9%
Baojun
110,977
69,395
166.9%
270,488
189,857
235.5%
Wuling
286,155
(55,358)
(16.2%)
1,050,327
(100,110)
(8.7%)
All Others
40,613
(11,540)
(22.1%)
124,506
(39,452)
(24.1%)
Total
2,333,663
(73,539)
(3.1%)
7,151,417
(93,933)
(1.3%)
Notes:
GM North America = United States, Canada, Mexico, and other North American markets*
GM Europe = Western, Central and Eastern Europe
GM International = Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Middle East*
** Includes China retail sales
* Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Syria and Sudan are excluded from sales volume calculations
In the more than 47-year history of the Irmscher group numerous special models and special series have already been incurred. Irmscher offers its industrial customers the complete service from the initial idea to the finished converted model. Some of the models already reached cult status such as the Opel Manta models i200 / GSI / 400 or the Vectra i500 and the exclusive Irmscher Senator 4,0 l .
In total Irmscher rebuilt in its history already up to 500.000 vehicles. As part of this year's IAA the Remshaldeners represent in cooperation with the dealership Köstner a very special power package. It is a new extensive tailor-made suit for the Opel Insignia ST with a changed technology. The vehicle is called Irmscher Insignia is3 "Bandit" and is to be offered as a special model.
The front is dominated by a revised front skirt with under ride splitter which ensures through the large air intakes for impression. The lateral line is extended by the perfectly integrated side sills and lead into a rear diffuser with tailpipe on the left and right side. A discreet rear wing spoiler ensures for a good drive values which also provides the street sports ambitions.
All newly developed parts were subjected to extensive test runs e.g. wind tunnel tests. A color scheme combines the individual elements on the vehicle and the vehicle is revalue with accents in the trend color of gold. The rims of the dimension 8,5 x 20 inches in Irmscher Turbo Star exclusive design enclose the rim window with a fine golden accent line. For an optimized performance the chassis has been adapted to the raised power.
The engine was revised with a comprehensive revision in the range of the turbocharger, the cooling, the intake section and the exhaust tract and is modified to 370 HP / 279 kW. The torque rises to 600 Nm and acceleration from 0-100 km / h is 5.9 seconds. This remarkable vehicle is planned as Irmscher special model and should be available for purchase from the end of 2015 through the dealership Köstner and Irmscher. Customers can choose between complete vehicles and the additional reconstruction.
Sleek and stylish next-generation Astra revealed at Frankfurt Motor Show
All-new vehicle architecture means up to 130kg weight saving for Australian models
New 1.4 litre and 1.6 litre turbo petrol engines offer more power
and leading fuel economy; 5-door variant confirmed for Australia
New high-tech Astra comes equipped with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in advanced infotainment system
Holden engineering team involved in global chassis tuning and development
The all-new Astra was revealed today at the 2015 International Motor Show in Frankfurt, Germany, giving Australians another taste of what is to come in Holden’s new-model onslaught that will see 24 new models introduced over the next five years.
Destined for a late 2016 release by Holden in Australia, the new Astra is a clean-sheet design from Opel’s European headquarters in Russelsheim, focusing on style and efficiency whilst following the ‘Sculptural Artistry meets German Precision’ design philosophy introduced on the stunning Monza concept in 2013.
Mark Bernhard, Holden Chairman and Managing Director, said the all-new Astra promised Australian customers European style and sophistication, coupled with outstanding efficiency, state-of-the-art technology and connectivity features that signal the future for the Holden brand and its vehicles.
“The all-new Astra is a stunning car and clearly signposts Holden’s future product strategy – bringing in the best cars from around the GM world for our customers. The Astra offers leading design, performance and technology, and is the latest vehicle to be confirmed as part of Holden’s new product onslaught that promises 24 new models by 2020,” Mr Bernhard said.
“Astra has made a giant leap forward with a new engine line-up, lightweight design and an advanced infotainment system complete with Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility.
“The 5-door Astra is a perfect small car for Australians and I am excited to say that, following local engineering input to ensure its performance is optimised for our unique road conditions, Holden will be offering this car in late 2016 alongside the recently launched Astra GTC and VXR sports hatches.”
Astra utilises a completely new vehicle architecture, facilitating a sleek new look and weight reduction of up to 130 kilograms for Australian models, lending to a more engaging driving experience.
The drive experience is further enhanced with the employment of an engine portfolio consisting of 1.4 litre turbo and 1.6 litre turbo engines, both with the ability to blend exceptional fuel economy with effortless performance.
All-aluminum: New 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with 114 kW and 240 Nm
Making its debut in Astra, the all-aluminum, 1.4 litre ECOTEC Direct Injection turbo engine is capable of producing up to 114 kW of power and of torque with a targeted fuel consumption of as little as 5.6L/100km. Alternatively, customers can select the sportier 1.6 litre ECOTEC Direct Injection turbo engine, boasting up to 147 kW of power and a class leading 300 Nm of torque.
New 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with 147 kW and 300 Nm
Holden engineers have shared their expertise and experience in contributing to global development rides as well as driving change into Astra’s chassis controls tuning to ensure the car performs well on Australian roads.
Ian Butler, Holden Director of Vehicle Performance, said the design and performance of Astra promised an exceptional small car that, with involvement of Holden’s engineering team during its development, would be perfectly suited to Australians.
“This car has been designed and engineered in Europe to the highest standards and with our chassis tuning input it will excel on Australian roads,” Mr. Butler said.
“The new engine line-up and new, lightweight architecture combine to deliver a refined yet engaging driving experience, maintaining the characteristics the Astra nameplate is famous for.”
Elsewhere, the exterior styling of the all-new Astra, exudes efficiency and style. Clean, flowing design lines coupled with a floating effect roof and reduction in length and height ensure a leaner, more streamlined body, resulting in an improvement in aerodynamics.
Inside the car, and despite its reduction in exterior size, Astra actually boasts increased rear-seat legroom, complimented by a contemporary cockpit design that is headed by an advanced colour touch screen display housing the latest smartphone integration technology via Apple Car Play and Android Auto.
Peter Keley, Executive Director - Sales said, the all-new Astra was sure to shake up the very competitive small-car market, offering style, performance and features in one compelling package.
“Make no mistake, the all-new Astra is a world class car. Its ability to combine outstanding fuel economy with exceptional small car performance and connectivity features will put Holden back on buyer’s shopping list,” Mr. Keley said.
“More and more Australian drivers demand their cars to integrate seamlessly with their lives and their smartphones and key to Astra’s appeal is the advanced infotainment system, complete with Apple Car Play and Android Auto compatibility.
“With all of that in one package, we are confident that this vehicle will connect with customers and sitting next to the popular Astra GTC and VXR sports hatches, clearly indicates the quality of Holden’s future product range.”
The exciting, all-new Astra will be launched by Holden in Australia in late 2016 and is part of the brands ongoing product onslaught following the release of a range of European sourced current generation products earlier in 2015.
Opel CEO Dr. Neumann: “Astra is the best Opel we have ever built”
Product offensive steps up a gear: 29 new Opel/Vauxhall models until 2020
GM CEO Mary Barra: “We want to be number two in Europe.”
Connectivity pioneer with Opel OnStar
Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann: “The new Astra is the best Opel we have ever built.”
The 66th International Motor Show in Frankfurt stared for Opel with the world premiere of the new generation Astra earlier today. It also marks the start of a new era for the company. “Our new Astra is the best Opel we have ever built and it represents a real quantum leap for Opel in a number of ways,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann in his opening words to the visitors of the official press conference in the Astra Galaxy. “The entire team has done an outstanding job on the new Astra. It’s another chapter in our comeback story.” The eleventh generation Opel compact class car is not only lighter, more agile and more efficient than ever before – it also comes with features previous only known from higher segments. After unveiling the 5-door Astra, the Opel Group CEO was joined on the stage of the more than 3,300m2
World Premiere: GM CEO Mary Barra and Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann reveal the new Astra Sports Tourer at the Opel Press Conference at the 66th Frankfurt Motor Show.
Opel booth D09 in hall 8.0 by General Motors CEO Mary Barra for the reveal of the Astra Sports Tourer. With around 30,000 orders to date, the car is already a huge success even though it will only be officially launched on October 10.
GM CEO Mary Barra: Speed up the product offensive and new flagship
General Motors’ Chief Executive Officer Mary Barra went on to announce some important news on the European product and model offensive. “We will speed up the model offensive at Opel/Vauxhall: From 2016 to 2020, we will launch 29 new vehicles including an electric vehicle and a second flagship alongside the Insignia. This all-new SUV will be produced in Rüsselsheim by the end of decade and will give the brand a further technological boost.” The goal for the future is clearly defined: Opel/Vauxhall have their sets firmly set on becoming the second largest automaker on the European market by 2022 after securing third place on the European Union passenger car market last year.
Center stage: GM CEO Mary Barra announced a new Opel product offensive with 29 new models to be launched between 2016 and 2020, including an electric vehicle and a second flagship in addition to the Insignia.
One of the key technologies moving forward is autonomous driving – something GM and Opel are working on aggressively. “We’ll see more changes in the auto industry in the next five to ten years than we saw in the past 50 years,” said Barra who also outlined that a world with zero crashes was the vision. “The new Opel Astra with all its active safety systems is an important step into that direction,” she added.
Opel CEODr. Neumann: New Astra brings luxury class technologies into the compact segment
The latest Opel compact class generation shows exactly how quick a vision can become reality. “With the new Astra, we realize a new vehicle philosophy that we presented here at the IAA two years ago in the form of the Monza Concept. Compact exterior, spacious interior with a lean and athletic design and trendsetting digital connectivity,” said Dr. Neumann when explaining the key features of the potential compact class bestseller.
Keyword efficiency: The latest generation Astra is based on a new lightweight vehicle architecture. Each component was looked at with regard to mass optimization resulting in the new model being up to 200 kilograms lighter than the outgoing version. The powerful, fuel efficient and clean latest generation engines are the perfect match. “The new engines propel the Astra to the top of its segment,” added Dr. Neumann.
Keyword connectivity: The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker has introduced groundbreaking connectivity solutions with the new generation IntelliLink infotainment systems that are now compatible with both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto along with Opel OnStar. The personal connectivity and service assistant is a guardian angel and service provider. Up to seven mobile devices can be connected to the Wi-Fi Hotspot that comes with a powerful onboard antenna. “OnStar is unique in Europe. Opel is a trendsetter in this area once again,” said Dr. Neumann.
However, that is not all, with the new Astra continuing to “upset the luxury class” as stated in the advertising campaign. The new Astra is the first ever vehicle in the compact class to offer the intelligent, glare-free IntelliLux LED® matrix light system. It addition, it comes with a host of innovative driver assistance systems and practical details. The tailgate on the Astra Sports Tourer, for example, can now be opened and closed with a kicking motion under the rear bumper.
“We are continuing to pursue our philosophy of offering technologies from the luxury class to all Opel customers at affordable prices,“ explained Neumann. “The new Astra is also first-in-class when it comes to total cost of ownership. You see: The new efficiency really pays off.”
Opel booth goes football: Jürgen Klopp and Bundesliga stars in the Astra Galaxy
The Astra Galaxy will also welcome some illustrious guests from the footballing world in the upcoming days. Brand ambassador Jürgen Klopp will kick things off on Saturday, September 19. He will hand over the proceeds from the sale of a BVB-ADAM to the charity “Ein Herz for Kinder” (A heart for children). In addition, he will join Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann for the presentation of the new Astra advertising campaign from 11.00 CET. The team and management of Mainz 05 will join Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group, from 11.00 CET the following day. Borussia Dortmund supremo Hans-Joachim Watzke, new Borussia Dortmund coach Thomas Tuchel and three Borussia players will be interviewed at the booth from 14:00 CET on Thursday, September 24. And on Sunday, September 27 a Bayer 04 Leverkusen delegation led by coach Roger Schmidt and sporting director Rudi Völler will visit the Astra Galaxy from 11:00 CET.
More room, less weight: The clever lightweight construction
Comfortable, practical, smart: New seat architecture and tailgate opening via a kick
Athletic, elegant, well-conceived: The design of the future station wagon bestseller
Fast, powerful, efficient: Latest generation turbocharged engines with up to 200 hp
Ultramodern, connected, safe: Opel OnStar, new IntelliLink and IntelliLux Matrix LED
World premiere at the IAA: The new Opel Astra Sports Tourer will be one of the stars at the Opel booth – it can be admired in Frankfurt from September 17 to 27.
Opel will continue its success story in the compact class with no less than two new models that will be presented at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt (September 17 to 27). The hatchback version of the new generation Astra will make its first big appearance in front of an international audience and it will be accompanied by the Astra Sports Tourer that will celebrate its premiere at the world’s most important motor show. The youngest member of the compact class station wagon generation comes with the same trendsetting development features as its five-door sibling that has been available for order since June. The Astra Sports Tourer is based on a completely new lightweight vehicle architecture that will make it up to 200 kilograms lighter than the outgoing model. Given that the station wagon will also be combined with the latest generation engines, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer will be punchier, livelier and more fun to drive. Simultaneously, fuel consumption has been curbed giving it convincing attributes for company car and frequent drivers who often look to both practical and representative station wagons.
When the order books open in a few weeks’ time, the Astra Sports Tourer will be available with Opel OnStar and the new IntelliLink infotainment systems ensuring that it has an ultramodern and extensive connectivity offer. The same applies to the numerous safety and assistance systems along with the equipment features previously only known from cars from higher segments. And last but not least, the new Astra Sports Tourer will turn heads with its elegant, lean and athletic styling. The interior demonstrates perfectly just how intelligent the design and the entire packaging are: the newcomer has exactly the same dimensions as the outgoing model but is considerably more spacious inside, offering more comfort for the driver and passengers along with more loading space.
“Our new Astra Sports Tourer and our new Astra hatchback – they are two sides of the same coin. Both represent a quantum leap for Opel and for the compact class. Apart from offering ultramodern connectivity and evolutionary design, the station wagon version focuses even more on efficiency,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “Our Sports Tourer is the perfect combination of practicality and dynamism: more space, less weight and in addition clever, trendsetting equipment details and features such as the power tailgate that opens and closes automatically with a little kick of the foot. This is how compact class station wagons should be nowadays.”
Efficient packaging: Athletic design with amble space
The new Opel Astra Sports Tourer impresses with its athletic appearance. Just like its five-door sibling, it takes Opel’s design philosophy ‘Sculptural Artistry meets German Precision’ to the next level: efficient, light and dynamic. The newly designed double chrome bar on the grill carries the Blitz and the front headlamps melt into the radiator grill to form a graphic unity. The Sports Tourer further extends the dynamic lines of the 5-door. The slightly arched sloping roofline gives the station wagon a longer appearance – an effect that is further enhanced by the divided C-pillar. The rear view combines high functionality with sporting, elegant design. The Opel Astra Sports Tourer has a stable, robust and safe stance – the muscular rear-wheel arch contours and the divided rear light clusters add to this impression.
The latest generation Sports Tourer has the same dimensions as the outgoing model with a length of 4,702 millimeters, a width of 1,871 millimeters (with exterior mirrors folded in) and a height of 1,499 millimeters – however, it offers much more space for passengers and luggage. The driver can enjoy 26 millimeters of additional headroom, passengers in the rear have 28 millimeters more legroom – two convincing improvements for spatial perception and travelling comfort. Furthermore, the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer can now shoulder 1,630 liters of luggage thanks to the efficient packaging.
Clever and variable: Loading space improvements that help on a daily basis
Opel offers an extremely practical novelty for the new Astra Sports Tourer, which will help on a daily basis: for the first time, the tailgate can be opened without a touch or a remote control. In combination with “Keyless Open” a simple small kicking motion under the rear bumper is enough to open the tailgate. A further kicking motion under the bumper will close the tailgate. The clever system can detect any obstruction and stops the mechanism in case of emergency. Furthermore, the tailgate can still be opened by a switch on the driver’s side of the car, buttons in the luggage compartment or via the key’s remote control.
In order to increase loading space the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer comes with optional 40/20/40 foldable rear seats enabling even more flexible loading space configurations. Furthermore, the FlexOrganizer product range with side rails, dividing nets and various fastening options is available and an option so that all loaded materials can be stored safely and tidily.
Lightweight construction + new generation engines = great driving fun and economy
Each Sports Tourer component was looked at with practicality and efficiency in mind. This is not only visible when it comes to the efficient use of space but especially when it comes to the weight. Compact design on the in and outside and the lightweight bodyshell helped the station wagon shed up to 200 kilograms. High-strength and ultra-high-strength steels, modifications to the axles, to the front and rear along with new production process all played a part in the impressive result. The entry-level Opel Astra Sports Tourer weighs 1,263 kilograms (including driver) and is thus 130 kilograms lighter than the comparable outgoing model. This obviously has a positive effect on agility, ride comfort, consumption and costs.
The engine portfolio with outputs ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 147 kW/200 hp also adds to the aforementioned virtues. The Sports Tourer will only be powered by engines of the latest generation. The diesel and gasoline engines with a displacement range of 1.0 to 1.6 liters all combine highest efficiency with excellent responsiveness and running smoothness.
The new 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo that will celebrate its premiere at the IAA is the top-of the-range engine available for the Opel Astra Sports Tourer. The combustion chamber of the 147 kW/200 hp direct injection turbo unit can withstand peak pressure of 130 bar and mobilizes an impressive 300 Nm of torque (with overboost). This powerhouse also delivers outstanding smoothness over the full engine speed range. To achieve this, the engineers made numerous optimizations to the induction and exhaust systems including decoupling the cam cover from the cylinder head via specific fasteners and a dedicated sealing system. Despite direct injection and focused combustion, engineers were able to reduce noise levels substantially compared to the previous engine. Because of these ‘sound-engineering’ measures, the customer will appreciate quiet and smooth idling, with a pleasant sound quality even at high road speeds, engine speeds and loads.
Innovative technologies: Safety, comfort and connectivity taken to a new level
Apart from impressing with ultramodern, trendsetting engine, the new Astra Sports Tourer also sets new standards in safety, infotainment and comfort. The intelligent IntelliLux LED® Matrix light in the new Astra is another absolute novelty in the compact segment. It enables permanent extra-urban driving with glare-free high beams and automatically and continuously deactivates individual LED modules when oncoming traffic or a vehicle immediately ahead are detected. The area around the light source is simply masked out and the rest of the road remains brightly illuminated. The groundbreaking system thus increases the active safety of all road users while also bringing additional comfort to the Opel Astra Sports Tourer driver when driving at night. Numerous innovative assistance systems drawing on the latest generation Opel Eye front camera offer the driver further support – starting with the more extensive and precise Traffic Sign Assist over Lane Keep assist, that even offers active steering corrections in case of an emergency, right up to the Forward Collision Alert with Collision Imminent Braking that can even bring the car to a standstill at speeds under 40 km/h.
On the inside, another unique element for the compact segment can be found: Opel OnStar, the personal connectivity and service assistant, serves as a guardian angel for the driver and passengers. In addition, two new IntelliLink systems will be introduced. The latest generation of the infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Elsewhere, the new AGR-certified premium ergonomic seats add additional comfort with side bolster adjustment, massage and memory function along with ventilation. Passengers in the rear can also look forward to an additional optional comfort feature with seat heating being available for the two outer rear seats.
The Opel/Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer is traditionally responsible for around 30 percent of Opel/Vauxhall Astra sales in Europe. The main customers are company car drivers along with families who want to combine practical loading space solutions with high travelling comfort. The biggest markets for the versatile station wagon are Germany, the UK and Italy. In Germany, order books for the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer will open on October 10, 2015. The other countries will follow.
Opel developing a racing car for the 2016 TCR International Series
New Astra for the Racetrack: Opel’s motorsports division is developing a touring car in accordance with the current regulations of the TCR series for national and international customer racing.
Opel is expanding its activities in customer touring car racing. Based on the new Astra K, which will celebrate its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) this September, the motorsports division of the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker is developing a touring car in accordance with the current regulations of the TCR series for national and international customer racing.
The TCR series, inaugurated in 2015, is based on a three-pillar concept that includes national and continental championships along with the global TCR International Series – all of which have exactly the same technical regulations. Therefore, a TCR vehicle can be used worldwide without undergoing any technical modifications. The two-liter turbo-charged engines have an output of 330 hp (246 kW) and maximum torque of 410 Nm.
“Touring car racing has always been an important part of Opel. The philosophy of the new TCR series corresponds to our idea of customer racing. We want to give ambitious privately owned teams a platform for exciting sport at reasonable costs,” said Opel Group CMO Tina Müller.
The Opel Astra TCR is currently under development and the technical specifications will be announced at a later date. Testing of the new customer sports touring car is set to start in October.
Successful around the world: Your personal connectivity and service assistant
24/7 365 days a year: Customers contact OnStar via phone, mobile app, vehicle
Pole position: Astra first completely new Opel model with OnStar
OnStar has fielded more than 1 billion request from customers, who interact by phone, mobile app or embedded cellular service in their cars and trucks. Launched nearly 19 years ago as an industry-first service that would place a call from the vehicle when an air bag deployed, OnStar today remotely unlocks doors, loads driving directions directly to the vehicle, compiles and sends emails on vehicle health.
A customer contacts OnStar every two seconds. That adds up to about 5 million calls a month from its subscriber base of more than 7 million. Add 8.8 million interactions a month from the mobile app and you can see how indispensable OnStar has become since launching in 1996.
“OnStar created the original connected car in 1996 and today remains at the forefront of innovation through the services offered in Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, Cadillac and soon, Opel vehicles around the globe,” said Alicia Boler-Davis, senior vice president, General Motors Global Connected Customer Experience. “The pace at which the brand has reached 1 billion interactions shows the vast customer demand for vehicle connectivity and there’s no doubt our second billion interactions will come even quicker.”
The Opel/Vauxhall OnStar connectivity and service assistant will be launched in Europe on August 3, 2015.
The new generation of the Opel Astra, which will celebrate its debut at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt (September 17 to 27), will be the first completely new Opel model to be available with OnStar. The system can also be ordered for ADAM, Cascada, Corsa, Insignia, Meriva, Mokka and Zafira Tourer in certain markets. The first introduction wave will see Opel OnStar being rolled out in 13 European markets, those being Belgium, Germany, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland and Spain, with additional countries following later. Customers will be able to use the entire service portfolio provided by Opel OnStar including the 24-hour Emergency Call Service free of charge for the first 12 months after registration.
Smartphone owners will be able to connect to their vehicle remotely with a Smartphone App. In addition, Opel OnStar will assist vehicle owners and police alike in case a vehicle with the system is stolen.
Opel OnStar can also provide subscribers with a monthly Vehicle Diagnostics email with the most important vehicle data and information. Furthermore, a diagnostics check can be requested at any time at the push of a button, thus providing peace of mind before setting off on a longer journey.
Opel OnStar subscribers in Europe will be in complete control of their data and the Opel OnStar services they receive. Before the services are activated they will have to agree to the terms and conditions. Furthermore, they will be able to choose whether they want to reveal their current location – at a push of the Privacy Button their position will be masked.
By the numbers, here is what 1 billion interactions looks like:
5.5 million Emergency Services delivered.
156 million mobile app requests.
Delivered Roadside Assistance more than 3.9 million times.
More than 390 million Vehicle Diagnostic reports delivered.
Before becoming known as OnStar, the original name for the service was Project Beacon. Its goal was integrating wireless communication into vehicles, years before mass adoption of smartphones.
In the fall of 1996, OnStar debuted in the Cadillac DeVille, Seville and Eldorado. The service initially offered Airbag Deployment Notifications, the core of OnStar’s safety and security premise, which progressed into Automatic Crash Response that uses sensors capable of determining the severity of a crash impact and alerting an OnStar emergency advisor to assist. OnStar today responds to more than 100,000 emergency calls every month.
Art of German engineering: All-new comfort seats from Opel
Unique in compact class: With massage and memory function, plus much more
Tradition at Opel: AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) seal of approval
Attractive offer: Ergonomic AGR driver’s seat already available from 390 euros
Unique in the compact class: Beyond being 18-way adjustable including side bolster adjustment, the Astra seats are now optionally available with massage and memory function along with ventilation.
The new Opel Astra celebrates its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt this fall (September 17 – 27, 2015), but it is already clear today: never before has there been so much luxury in the compact class. The Astra is lighter, more efficient and offers state-of-the-art features; thanks to its advanced seating technology, it makes every drive a relaxing journey. AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) certified premium Opel ergonomic seats provide excellent long-distance travel seating comfort. They continue the Opel tradition of award-winning, back-friendly seats. Beyond being 18-way adjustable including side bolster adjustment, they are now optionally available with further comfort features such as massage and memory function along with ventilation – a unique combination in the compact class. Rear seat passengers can also look forward to more luxury – in addition to more legroom, heated outer rear seats are optional. Astra customers can treat themselves to these luxury seats that are completely developed in-house at Opel for very attractive prices – the driver’s seat with the AGR seal of approval is already available from 390 euros.
Ergonomic AGR driver’s seat is already available from 390 euros.
“Seating is among the most important elements in a vehicle as it delivers safety, comfort, and design. It is one of the reasons we place such a high priority- with the support of our partners- on the development of our seating systems," says Charlie Klein, Vice President Vehicle Engineering at Opel. "The new Opel Astra seats continue to deliver on the promise of excellence and are a reflection of the skill and commitment of our engineers and designers. The Astra seats provide advanced features in the compact segment that are normally found only in the premium class."
Lightweight: Seat alone ten kilos lighter
Development of the seating environment in the new Astra already began nearly five years ago for the over 100 employees in the team of experts. “Especially integration of the relatively bulky seats must be considered from the very beginning. This means the seats have to fit into the car accurately to the last millimeter – in every direction,” says Andrew Leuchtmann, Senior Manager GME Interiors. A very challenging task, as the seat components are one of the car’s largest parts. Seat production alone accounts for around ten percent of the total production costs of a new car model.
At the same time, the seats have a large impact on total weight. That is why for their new development, the engineers first had to minutely examine all single elements of the Astra comfort seats that come as standard. “Compared to the predecessor, not one single part is identical,” says the expert. In order to offer rear seat passengers 35 millimeters more legroom, the seat back of the new comfort front seat was made much more compact. State-of-the-art calculation methods enable this, as do lighter polyurethane foams and ultra-high-strength steels that are built in under the seat upholstery. “So the new seats are around ten kilos lighter than those in the previous model,” explains Leuchtmann. This is not only true for the driver and co-driver seats – the new Astra’s rear seats are also lighter and more compact, their contouring was optimized and thigh support was enhanced with a steeper seat tilt.
AGR seal of approval for ergonomic seats
“In-vehicle ergonomics is more than just the seat contouring, it already begins with the positioning of the seat in the car,” says Leuchtmann. The Opel experts also further optimized the Astra comfort seat in this regard, positioning it lower. “This especially accommodates taller drivers with a sporty driving style,” he explains. Thanks to a 65-millimeter height adjustment span – the largest in the segment – shorter drivers are also guaranteed an optimum seating position. With the optional premium ergonomic seat’s memory function, this can even be saved at the press of a button. This is ideal for fleet vehicles with the same group of drivers or couples who share the new Opel Astra. The base version of the optional ergonomic seats comes with four-way electropneumatically adjustable lumbar support (forwards, backwards, up and down), variable seat cushion tilt, cushion length adjustment and a seat form with contours that adapt to the natural curvature of the spine. The premium ergonomic seats also feature electropneumatically adjustable side bolsters that support the body by making the seatback narrower or wider. All these exemplary ergonomic elements made it clear to the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs), an independent association of doctors and experts dedicated to preventing back problems, that the new Astra also deserves the AGR seal of approval.
Wellness massage, climate control and heating included
Seats should not only keep drivers securely in place, they should also keep them warm or cool depending on the prevailing conditions. The new Astra comfort seat features passive climate control, meaning breathable surface fabrics and perforated polyurethane foams that considerably improve transporting away moisture and thereby the micro climate in the seat. The new Astra’s premium ergonomic seats can do both – keep warm and cool. Small fans suck air, and thus the moisture that develops when someone is in the seat, away from the body. In the winter, integrated seat heating keeps the driver and co-driver as well as both outer rear seat passengers comfortably warm. Those who want to turn their car into a wellness mobile on longer journeys can enjoy a massage at the push of a button – and arrive at their destination even hours later relaxed and free of aches or pains.
Opel Signum (2003)
Opel Signum (2003) - First Opel with Ergonomic AGR seat.
Opel is the leading volume manufacturer of ergonomic seats with the AGR seal of approval. The first ergonomic Opel seat was introduced with the Signum in 2003. Today, in addition to the new Astra, the certified and popular seats can be ordered for many Opel models including the Insignia, Meriva, Zafira Tourer, Mokka and Cascada. “We want to really speed up the democratization of good seats – more Opel models with AGR seats will follow,” promises Andrew Leuchtmann.
Traditional trickery: 30 years of camouflaging and trickery at Opel
From ‘Fishies’ to ‘Cube’: 3D effect makes debut in fourth generation camouflage foil
Cover-up better than naked truth: Interior camouflage increasingly important
Fourth generation camouflage foil: Between 60 and 70 sheets of foil are required to completely cover up a compact class car like the new Opel Astra K.
It is a never ending contest: the battle between carmakers and the spy photographers. The one side will do anything in its power to hide their newest creations from the outside world for as long as possible, whereas the other side develops increasingly creative techniques to get a shot of their motorized prey and to get the first photograph of a prototype. For 30 years, Opel has been developing new camouflage foils and artificial add-on components to lead the automotive paparazzi astray. The latest coup of the cover-up team is, amongst others, being used for the new Opel Astra K: The black and white ‘Cube’ camouflage foil. Opel hopes to keep the design and the interior of the newly-developed Astra a secret until the first photographs are released in the upcoming weeks. The new Opel Astra K will be on show in all its beauty for the first time and celebrate its world premiere at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt in September.
Traditional trickery: 30 years of camouflaging and trickery at Opel
The experts have paid special attention to protecting the newly designed fascia, the grille with the distinctive Opel Blitz and the rear from curious eyes. If camouflage expert Andreas Kubis had his way, the new Astra would be covered up completely. However, Astra prototypes can only be distorted to a degree that still allows engineers and test drivers to deliver realistic results for the following production vehicle. And obviously a TÜV safety inspector has to clear the camouflaged vehicle before it is allowed to take to the road. That makes certain things easier for Kubis to accept, the lights for example. “The turn indicators have to be visible from the side,” explains Kubis. Nonetheless, ideally the precise contour of the lights should remain hidden as it is one of the recognition factors and characteristic for every Opel.
For 30 years: Opel has been developing new camouflage foils and artificial add-on components to lead the automotive astray
Kubis, a certified technical manager, has successfully being trying to stay a step ahead of spy photographers since 2012. The 3D effects of ‘Cube’, already frustrating preying eyes during the development phase of the Corsa, only indicate the contours of the new Astra, make them become blurred and confuse onlookers. Between 60 and 70 sheets of foil are required to completely cover up a compact class car like the new Opel Astra. It is stone chip, temperature and UV-resistant. Temperatures ranging from minus 40 degrees to plus 80 degrees Celsius are not a problem. After all, the test drivers in Arjeplog in northern Sweden need to rely on the camouflage in the most adverse weather conditions.
For the first time ever, the experts used an additional special privacy foil for the instruments, center console and infotainment system of the band new Opel Astra K prototype. “The material is well-known from laptops and mobile phones. It prevents the contents of the screen being visible from the side,” explains Kubis. Plastic enclosures and foam flesh simulate the shape of the instruments, whereas the privacy foil can even take on the most powerful zoom lenses.
From Fishies via Wirries to Cube – four generations of camouflage foil
‘Cube’ is already the fourth generation of camouflage foil used by Opel. “Looking back, it is plain to see how colleagues adapted current trends in body construction and turned them into a match camouflage philosophy,” describes Kubis. At the beginning, it was only about covering the rough edges and concealing the headlights behind yellow and red tape. The demands on camouflaging grew continuously as camera technology improved. At the end of the 1980s, camouflaging reached a new level with the front and rear ends also disappearing under tape. “Even the windows were partially covered to obscure characteristic window lines,” says Kubis. The first Opel camouflage foil, with fish-shaped hashes called ‘Fishies’, was used on the Corsa C in 1999. A team of up to three people needed several days to apply the foil to the car back then. Gradually, the camouflage experts padded the foil with plastic and foam components, distorting the vehicle completely. The ‘Flimmies’ pattern, used amongst others for the Astra J in 2009, saw the time required to cover a car shrink to two days per vehicle. But each check had to be applied individually and painstakingly removed later. Screen printing technology used for the third-generation ‘Wirries’, used from 2011 to 2013, saved the experts up to a day of work. The foil could be applied in one piece and removed if required.
Test drivers rule: Camouflage is part of the job
Opel has been camouflaging the interior of its new cars since 2008 and obviously there has been developments in this sector too. In the past, hand-stitched artificial leather covers with Velcro were used to cover the instrument panel and the dashboard. These days the experts rely on a much lighter mesh fabric known from backpacks which allows for the individual components to be covered separately. Air vents, the handbrake and other important buttons such as the hazard light button need to remain uncovered when on the road. A special lamination seals up the rear and side windows while at the same time allowing the driver to see out. To this day, test drivers and engineers follow a simple rule, especially when parking the car: cover up the instruments and protect the interior from preying eyes.
Camouflage is good but a trick is sometimes better
New Opel ADAM S - Prototype with ‘Driver training’ lettering.
When looking to the animal kingdom it becomes apparent that camouflage is good, but a trick can be (even) better. The new Opel ADAM S with its eye-catching wheels and the distinctive spoiler posed a real challenge for Kubis and his team. “We didn’t want to make the first prototype even more attention-grabbing. That is why we didn’t camouflage the Opel ADAM S. Instead, we make it look like a training car,” says Kubis. The lettering ‘Driver training’ and some sporty black and yellow stripes did the trick and the paparazzi lost interest. The battle was won – at least until the next round.
New Opel ADAM S - Prototype with ‘Driver training’ lettering.
