‘SMARTBEST 2025’: Opel wins AUTOBEST Award for ChatGPT

• Top connectivity: International jury of experts honours Stellantis brands for the introduction of ChatGPT in their vehicles
• Extensive line-up: ChatGPT now available in most Opel passenger cars and LCVs
• Easy access: ChatGPT activated by a simple “Hey Opel”

Opel makes top technologies accessible and affordable for everyone. This has also been recognised by the high-profile international AUTOBEST jury. The journalists from more than 30 countries have now awarded Opel and other Stellantis brands unanimously with the ‘SMARTBEST 2025’ for the introduction of ChatGPT 1 in their models. The award recognises pioneering solutions for onboard connectivity in vehicles.

“We are delighted to receive this award,” said Vanessa Repp, Vice President Future Product at Opel and Vauxhall. “The unanimous vote of the independent journalists shows that we offer vehicles with pioneering technologies that make driving more enjoyable and that at the same time customers can afford. This applies to locally emissions-free electric drives as well as intelligent connectivity solutions such as ChatGPT 1.”

With ChatGPT 1 Opel drivers and passengers have access to a wide range of information from a long list of topics including science, biology, nutrition, pop culture, music and many more. In combination with the navigation system, a "Hey Opel" is sufficient to use natural speech recognition – which has now become even more desirable thanks to the addition of ChatGPT 1. The system can now learn and independently suggest destinations and route guidance based on the habits of the linked driver profile.

Opel is currently rolling out ChatGPT 1 in the new Opel Mokka as well as in many other models like the new Opel Grandland, the Opel Corsa, the Opel Astra, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer, the Opel Combo and the Opel Zafira. Furthermore, the Opel Combo and the Opel Vivaro light commercial vehicles are also available with the artificial intelligence chatbot.

[1] This new service uses the power of generative artificial intelligence including the technologies of the SoundHound Chat AI platform. Version 3.5 of ChatGPT uses data dating back to January 2022 at the latest, and therefore has no knowledge of events and data after that date.

Electrifying News: Opel Corsa-e Wins “Golden Steering Wheel 2020”

• Best small car: All-electric Opel Corsa-e succeeds against strong competition
• Serial winner: Opel Corsa already “Best Buy Car of Europe” and “Company Car of the Year”
• Long tradition: Corsa-e is Opel’s 18th “Golden Steering Wheel” winner

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller, Head of Communications Harald Hamprecht (left) and Head of Development Marcus Lott.

New Opel Corsa continues its winning ways and has now claimed one of the most important awards in the German automobile industry – the “Golden Steering Wheel 2020”. All-electric Corsa-e received the award today. Opel Corsa-e clearly defeated tough rivals to take the first prize in the small car category. Germany’s best-selling small car is as electrifying for the experts and readers of Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag as for customers.

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller with the Golden Steering Wheel in for successful Opel Corsa-e.

“Opel is electric”, says Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller, “and our new Opel Corsa-e is the best proof. It shows that an electric car today can be not only dynamic and practical, but also affordable for all. We are proud of the way the Opel Corsa-e convinces everyone: our customers, the readers of Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag, as well as the expert jury and celebrities.”

As usual, the winners had to clear two hurdles on the way victory. First, the readers of Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag elected their three favourites in each category for the final. A jury of journalists, racing drivers and car experts then tested each finalist on the DEKRA-Lausitzring racetrack, using criteria based on the Auto Bild test method. With a total of 3,218 points, the new Opel Corsa-e ultimately overcame strong “small car” competition from the Hyundai i20 in second and the VW e-Up in third, with an advantage of 141 and 431 points respectively.

Opel Corsa-e: Electric mobility in its finest form

With 100 kW (136 hp) and 260 Newton metres of torque from the first squeeze of the accelerator,  Opel Corsa-e offers state-of-the-art electric mobility. With a range of up to 337 km according to the WLTP 1 cycle, the agile five-seater is suitable for every-day use. Using 100 kW DC, the 50 kWh battery can be fast-charged to up to 80 per cent state-of-charge in 30 minutes. Opel Corsa-e is ready for all charging options – via wall box, high-speed charging or cable for household sockets.

Opel Corsa-e

Entry level Opel Corsa-e already offers automatic climate control with remote control, electric parking brake and keyless start, the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible Multimedia Radio with 7-inch colour touchscreen, OpelConnect Services and a digital cockpit. Systems such as forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, traffic sign recognition and intelligent cruise control are also included at no extra cost.

Current Opel Corsa generation: Best-selling small car

Opel Corsa: “Best Buy Car of Europe 2020”

“Golden Steering Wheel” now takes pride of place in the new Corsa’s trophy cabinet. AUTOBEST jury already named the best-selling small car the “Best Buy Car of Europe 2020”. In Germany, Opel Corsa won the compact category of “Company Car of the Year”. Auto Bild and Computer Bild presented the “Connected Car Award 2019” to the new Opel model. Corsa-e is Opel’s 18th winner of the “Golden Steering Wheel”, continuing a long tradition.

[1] Range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range can vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular on personal driving style, route characteristics, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

AUTOBEST Awards for All-New Opel Corsa and Opel CEO Lohscheller

• “Best Buy Car of Europe 2020”: Opel Corsa wins for the third time at AUTOBEST
• “MANBEST 2019”: CEO Michael Lohscheller is Manager of the Year
• Grand gala: prize-giving ceremony in Mainz
• Successful year: Opel models receive numerous awards across Europe in 2019

AUTOBEST Awards: prize-giving ceremony in Mainz

Double success for Opel at AUTOBEST: at yesterday's award ceremony in Mainz, CEO Michael Lohscheller was awarded the “MANBEST” award for best manager of the year 2019. In addition, the Opel boss received the “Best Buy Car 2020” trophy for the new Opel Corsa. AUTOBEST jury, which is made up of international journalists from 31 countries, has chosen the Opel newcomer as the car with the best price-performance ratio in Europe. With the current award, the new Opel Corsa scores an AUTOBEST title hat trick: No other model has been named “Best Buy Car of Europe” in three successive generations. Among the gala guests in Mainz were Managing Director Marketing and Sales, Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director Engineering, Christian Müller and Vice President Communication, Harald Hamprecht.

Centre-stage with new Opel Corsa: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller flanked by (from left to right), Harald Hamprecht (Vice President Communications), Christian Müller (Managing Director Engineering), Dan Vardie (Founder, AUTOBEST) and Xavier Duchemin (Managing Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales).

“Our new Opel Corsa is a future-oriented car – state-of-the-art, with excellent driving dynamics and also electric. It offers top technologies at fair prices. That also convinced the AUTOBEST jury”, said Michael Lohscheller in Mainz. “The ‘MANBEST’ award is a great personal honour for me. This title exemplifies what we have achieved as a team with all employees at Opel. We have put Opel back on the road to success – and it will stay that way”, promised the manager of the year 2019.

Manager of the year: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller (left) receives the MANBEST award from AUTOBEST jury member, Richard Aucock.

After the takeover of Opel by Groupe PSA in 2017, Michael Lohscheller and his management team developed and implemented the comprehensive strategic plan “PACE!”, which will make Opel sustainably profitable, global and electric. New Opel Corsa-e started the major electrification offensive with its world premiere last summer. Opel Corsa-e combines the practical Corsa qualities with locally CO2-free operation and an everyday electric range of up to 337 kilometres (according to WLTP 1). Already in 2007 and 2015, Corsa generation numbers four and five won overall at AUTOBEST. New Opel Corsa and Corsa-e continue this tradition with the third AUTOBEST title.

Opel Corsa wins for the third time at AUTOBEST

Awards from experts and public: Enthusiasm for Opel models

New generation Corsa has made a strong start. In Germany, for example, it has already been named “Company Car of the Year” and a few days ago, it received the “Connected Car Award” from the Auto Bild Group. In Spain, new Opel Corsa won the “Premio Best Car Coche Global” title. The Opel flagship Insignia is also celebrating success across Europe. In the United Kingdom, it was recently named the “Upper Medium Car of the Year” for the third year in a row; due to its high quality, it is also in the running for the J.D. Power “Most reliable Midsize Car”. In Germany, thanks to its state-of-the-art Twinster all-wheel drive with torque vectoring, the Insignia is the “All-Wheel Drive Car of The Year” and “Auto Test Award” winner, as well as “J.D. Power Award” title-holder. The compact SUVs Mokka X and Crossland X complete the award series at Opel as "Most Reliable Small SUV" in the UK and "Best Family Car" in the Netherlands.

Light commercial vehicles from Opel’s sister brand, Vauxhall, are also particularly popular in the UK. The trio of Combo Cargo, Vivaro and Movano has received numerous prizes ranging from "Small / Light / Medium Van of the Year" to "Light Commercial Vehicle of the Year" and the "TVD Best Trader's Choice Award". The new Vivaro also received the “TVD Best Newcomer Award”. Overseas, Opel was “Brand of the Year” in 2019.

[1] Fuel consumption and CO2-emission data have been determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151).

“Best Buy Car of Europe in 2020”: All-New Opel Corsa and Corsa-e Win AUTOBEST Award

• Europe’s best: international journalists from 31 countries elect All-New Opel Corsa
• Dynamic, practical, electric: New Opel Corsa-e is the electric car for everyone
• Hat-trick: Opel Corsa first to win AUTOBEST in three generations
• Fully charged: all Opel models electrified by 2024

All-New Opel Corsa and Corsa-e Win AUTOBEST Award

All-New Opel Corsa ticks all the boxes: in September, the sixth generation celebrated its world premiere at the IAA in Frankfurt – for the first time also as battery-electric Corsa-e. Now the small car bestseller has won the prestigious title of “Best Buy Car of Europe in 2020”. AUTOBEST jury, made up of international journalists from 31 countries, chose the Opel newcomer as the winner and thus the car offering the most for the money. Experts confirmed this during conclusive test drives at the final in Istanbul. And with the Corsa-e, Opel offers an electric small car for everyone, which combines the practical Corsa qualities with CO2-free operation and an electric range of up to 337 kilometres (according to WLTP 1). At the same time, the award for the all-new Opel Corsa completes an AUTOBEST hat- trick: no other model has been named "Best Buy Car of Europe" in three successive generations.

“We are very happy to receive this award,” said Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller. “The verdict of the independent specialist journalists shows that with the Opel Corsa we have created a future-oriented car for everyone. A car that is state-of-the-art, efficient, and well-equipped, with strong driving dynamics. At prices you can afford. At the same time, the Corsa, as a three-time AUTOBEST winner, shows that with each new generation of vehicles we are delivering on our promise to make top technologies available to a wide range of buyers.”

Add caption

“Last year, at AUTOBEST we said that the next winner of Best Buy Car of Europe should be an electrified brilliant new product. It is exactly what happened, and the new Opel Corsa is a perfect example of electrification for the masses. Thanks to the multi-energy platform, the new Corsa addresses everybody in Europe by offering both ICE and EV versions. Our AUTOBEST winner is the first car in our history starting to build the link between now and tomorrow, between classic and avant-garde propulsions and technologies. The new Corsa is the first to democratise the future of electric motoring, making people in Europa embrace the future confidently as the next normality,” said Dan Vardie, AUTOBEST Founder & Chairman.

Already in 2007 and 2015, Corsa generations four and five took overall victory; last year the Opel Combo Life received the AUTOBEST award. Now the new Opel Corsa and Corsa-e are continuing the tradition. The recipe for success: the new Opel Corsa combines high everyday benefits with top technologies, economy, an exciting design plus lots of fun behind the wheel. Every Corsa variant is equipped with numerous state-of-the-art assistance systems. These include forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection as well as intelligent speed control, lane departure warning and traffic sign recognition.

Together with the Opel Grandland X plug-in hybrid, the Corsa-e marked the starting signal for the Opel electrification-offensive this year. All Opel models will be electrified by 2024 – customers can then choose an “e” version of each model. Also, electric light commercial vehicles are becoming particularly important for the “last mile” in city centres. Opel Vivaro-e van will launch in the course of the coming year. Electrified versions of the Opel Combo Life, Combo Cargo and Zafira Life will then arrive in 2021.

All-New Opel Corsa is AUTOBEST 2020 Finalist

• All-New Corsa competes for “Best Buy Cars of Europe” prize
• Practical, stylish and dynamic all-new Opel Corsa ideal for singles, couples and families
• Sixth-generation Opel Corsa also available as all-electric version

All-New Opel Corsa

All-new Opel Corsa has been named one of the finalists for AUTOBEST 2020. By reaching the final, the German small car is one of five remaining strong contenders for the title – the Nissan Juke, Peugeot 208, Renault Clio and Skoda Kamiq. Winner will be announced in mid-December.

The sixth generation of the practical, stylish and dynamic Opel Corsa made its premiere at the IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show in September 2019. An all-electric version is also available for the first time.

New Opel Corsa-e

A jury consisting of journalists from 31 European countries tests new models eligible for the coveted AUTOBEST award. Winner will be named “Best Buy Car of Europe 2020”.

To win AUTOBEST, a car must represent the best offer for the majority of European customers. Price, service network, spare parts distribution and versatility are the most important criteria in the voting process. Design and new technologies are also critical factors.

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller Awarded “MANBEST 2019” by the AUTOBEST Jury

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller with New Opel Corsa-e

Next honour for Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller: After already winning the “Eurostar 2019” award presented by industry magazine Automotive News Europe, Lohscheller has now been recognized by the renowned AUTOBEST jury and named “MANBEST 2019”.

“This award is obviously a great honour for me personally, but I would like to dedicate it to our entire team. Opel’s comeback story since becoming part of Groupe PSA would not have been possible without the commitment and dedication of each and every Opel employee. We can once again be proud of our brand and proud of what we have achieved as a team. And I promise that together we will ensure that the Opel Blitz continues to shine,” said Michael Lohscheller.

“In a time when Opel was searching for the path to success, Michael Lohscheller was the right man, at the right time, with the right vision and strategy to push the German carmaker into a new era of success. Michael Lohscheller is the first European CEO of Opel who has successfully driven the company to profit after almost two decades,” said AUTOBEST Chairman Dan Vardie.

Following the takeover of Opel by Groupe PSA in the summer of 2017, the management team led by Michael Lohscheller developed a comprehensive restructuring plan called PACE!. Overarching goals: with PACE! Opel will become sustainably profitable, global and electric. Consistent implementation of this plan under Lohscheller has seen Opel register a recurring operating income of €859 million in 2018 – the highest operating profit in the 157-year company history after nearly 20 years of losses. In the first half of 2019, Opel was able to further improve its results and achieved an operating income of €700 million in a difficult environment for the entire industry.

“MANBEST” award, which was introduced to recognize the leading automotive managers has been presented by AUTOBEST since 2001. AUTOBEST jury members represent 31 European countries, making it the largest independent motoring jury in the world in terms of the number of represented countries.

Opel Combo Life: More Power and Refinement for Powertrain Portfolio

• Strong: Euro 6d petrol engine with 96 kW (130hp) and 230 Nm maximum torque
• Comfortable: smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic gearbox for diesel and petrol units
• Safe: extensive portfolio of state-of-the-art assistance systems on board as standard

Opel Combo Life

Family friend and everyday hero Opel Combo Life is now even more versatile and attractive. All-purpose leisure activity vehicle is now available with a new top-of-the-line petrol engine combined with eight-speed automatic transmission and Start/Stop. The 96 kW (130 hp) 1.2 Direct Injection Turbo (NEDC ^[1] fuel consumption: urban 6.3-6.1 l/100km, extra-urban 5.1-4.9 l/100km, combined 5.6-5.3 l/100km, 127-121 g/km CO2) already meets the Euro 6d emission standard and joins the existing powertrain portfolio of petrol and diesel engines (NEDC ^[1] fuel consumption: urban 6.6-4.5 l/100km, extra-urban 5.1-4.0 l/100km, combined 5.7-4.2 l/100km, 130-110 g/km CO2). Prices for the Opel Combo Life with this engine in the Edition trim start at €27,200 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

In addition to the top-of-the-line petrol engine and the eight-speed automatic transmission, standard features such as the six-stage adjustable driver's seat with lumbar support and armrest, heated leather steering wheel with steering wheel remote control, power windows in front and air conditioning increase comfort. For top connectivity, the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible multimedia radio with eight-inch colour touchscreen is on board.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible multimedia radio with eight-inch colour touchscreen

Furthermore, state-of-the-art driver assistance systems make driving even more relaxed. Extensive standard equipment includes systems such as automatic cruise control and speed limiter, front collision warning with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection, hill-start assist, lane keep assist as well as traffic sign recognition and driver drowsiness alert.

230 Nm maximum torque, 186 km/h top speed – already Euro 6d compliant

1.2 Direct Injection Turbo - Euro 6d petrol engine with 96 kW (130hp) and 230 Nm maximum torque

With 96 kW (130 hp), the new 1.2 Direct Injection Turbo is the top-of-the-line power unit in the Opel Combo Life petrol engine portfolio. Lively three-cylinder engine already complies with the Euro 6d emission standard. It delivers 230 Nm of maximum torque at only 1,750 rpm and comes combined exclusively with the ultra-modern eight-speed automatic transmission. Together with the direct injection turbo engine, this not only enables particularly smooth gear changes, but also helps to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. In order to reduce particulate emissions as much as possible, the engine features a close-coupled Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) for optimum regeneration (i.e. oxidisation of the particles that accumulate in the filter). In this engine-transmission combination, the Opel Combo Life reaches a maximum speed of 186 km/h and accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 12.3 seconds.

All-round winner: Current Opel Combo generation

But it is not only exemplary driving performance that makes the current Opel Combo generation so attractive. It was developed according to passenger car standards from the start – and not as a commercial vehicle to which features were added retrospectively to also appeal to families. Professionals and workers using the Combo Cargo panel van therefore benefit from the same safety, technology and comfort features as families and recreational athletes riding in the passenger car version. It is no surprise that the passenger car Opel Combo Life was voted "AUTOBEST Best Buy Car of Europe 2019" and the commercial vehicle variant Opel Combo Cargo "International Van of the Year 2019". They offer more car for the money, plus the highest level of safety and comfort in their respective segments. In addition, the Opel Combo offers drivers and passengers plenty of space and high flexibility – all with top comfort. Opel Combo Life is available with five or seven seats and in two lengths (4.40 m and 4.75 m as the XL model variant). 

Opel Combo Life is available with five or seven seats and in two lengths (4.40 m and 4.75 m as the XL model variant). 

Shorter five-seat version already offers at least 597 litres ^[2] of boot space (long wheelbase: 850 litres ^[2]). The multifunctional everyday hero displays true transporter qualities with the rear seats folded down. Then luggage volume of the standard version more than triples to 2,1263 litres while the long version of the  Opel Combo Life can carry up to 2,6933 litres.

[1] Fuel consumption and CO2 emissions figures mentioned are determined according to the new World Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure WLTP (Regulation EU 2017/948), and the relevant values are translated back into NEDC to allow the comparability with other vehicles. Please contact your dealer for the latest information. The values do not take into account in particular use and driving conditions, equipment or options and may vary depending on the format of tires. 

[2] To top of rear seatbacks according to ISO 3832.

[3] To roof with rear seatbacks folded down according to ISO 3832.

AUTOBEST: Opel Combo Life is “Best Buy Car of Europe 2019”

• International jury of journalists from 31 countries votes for Combo Life
• New Opel Combo Life impresses with best value for money, innovative driver assistance systems, high comfort and spaciousness

Opel Combo Life

The new Opel Combo Life has been elected “Best Buy Car of Europe 2019” by the authoritative AUTOBEST jury, which was particularly impressed by the car’s excellent value for money. The Combo Life defeated five other brand new contenders for the title (Citroën C4 Cactus, Dacia Duster, Ford Focus, Kia Ceed, Toyota Corolla).

The jury of journalists from 31 European countries decided in favour of the Opel Combo Life after the final round of test driving at the Vairano racetrack in Italy. The Opel offers ultra-modern technologies such as Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), driver drowsiness alert, a 180-degree rear view camera, Head-Up Display (HUD) and “Flank Guard” protection for the side bodywork. 

Opel Combo also combines the comfort and driving dynamics of a passenger car with the variability of a leisure activity vehicle. In their evaluation the jury members also focus on the cost of ownership, the availability of spare parts and the standards of dealer servicing. The winner of the “Best Buy Car of Europe 2019” award must deliver the best all-round package, the fifth-generation Opel Combo therefore proved unbeatable.

“We are thrilled with the decision of the 31 independent members of the AUTOBEST jury”, said Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller. “The Combo simply offers a lot of car for the money – the key to winning ‘Best Buy Car of Europe’. The new Opel Combo Life is an all-round talent that can do almost anything. It plays a major role in our on-going product offensive that will see us launch eight new models in the next two years.”

Opel Combo Life XL

Dan Vardie, founder and chairman of AUTOBEST: “We had a very tough competition between the finalists, a record number in the AUTOBEST history. The Opel/Vauxhall Combo Life, along with Citroën Berlingo and Peugeot Rifter – competing as one model, another first in our history – managed to impress the jury members and deserve the ‘Best Buy Car of Europe’ title. The winning models are simply an efficient solution for the European customer.”

As “Best Buy Car of Europe 2019” the Combo Life continues a strong Opel tradition. In recent years, the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker was twice successful in the AUTOBEST Award. The Opel Corsa took the title outright in 2007 and 2015. AUTOBEST presents the “Best Buy Car of Europe” since 2000.

New Opel Grandland X Reaches AUTOBEST 2018 Final Six

• Recently tested, now already in the final: Opel Grandland X amongst “Best Buy Cars of Europe” according to jury
• Convincing qualities: New Opel compact SUV impresses with design, leading technologies and functionality
• Success story: Opel multiple award winner in prestigious international competition

European AUTOBEST 2018 Finalist: New Opel Grandland X has impressed the jury and been included in the final six.

Despite only having recently celebrated its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show and having just been tested by members of the media, the new Opel Grandland X has surpassed many of its rivals and been named one of the finalists for the European “AUTOBEST 2018”. The jury of the prestigious international competition announced this today. A jury consisting of journalists from 31 European countries tests new models eligible for the coveted award. The winner is named “Best Buy Car of Europe 2018”. By reaching the final, the dynamic Opel compact SUV is one of six remaining strong contenders for the title. The AUTOBEST jury evaluates the candidates in various categories such as flexibility, design and new technologies along with the service network, availability of parts and price.

The new Opel Grandland X excels in many areas: Modern, athletic lines, cool off-road look along with typical SUV qualities such as elevated seating position and good all round visibility. Furthermore, the adventurous newcomer comes with numerous leading technologies such as IntelliGrip electronic traction control along with plenty of space and comfort for up to five passengers.

All this is offered at an attractive price-performance ratio and has helped the new challenger in the SUV segment qualify for the AUTOBEST 2018 final. The decisive evaluation will take place during numerous test drives along with further assessments on the test track in Vairano (Italy). The winner – the “Best Buy Car of Europe” – will be announced in mid-December.

Opel’s latest contender, the Grandland X, is following a good Opel tradition. The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker has celebrated multiple honours in various categories of the prestigious AUTOBEST awards in recent years:

In 2007 and 2015, the Opel Corsa won the AUTOBEST award, enabling both generations of the small car all-rounder to carry the title of “Best Buy Car of Europe”.

• In 2009, the first generation Opel Insignia wowed the jury with its styling and took the DESIGNBEST award.
• Elsewhere, the Opel Ampera and the Opel Ampera-e demonstrated environmentally friendly mobility with both winning the ECOBEST award in 2011 and 2016 respectively.
• Furthermore, the current Opel Astra generation won the 2015 SAFETYBEST award for its trendsetting IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights.
• And as the Opel credo “Sculptural artistry meets German precision” is valid for both the models as well as the entire company according to the jury, Opel was presented with the COMPANYBEST award in 2016.

750,000 Orders: Current Opel Corsa Continues Success Story

• Fifth generation of bestseller: Over 13 million Corsa cars built to date
• Success story in five acts: From Opel Corsa A to current model

Serial success: Over 13 million Opel Corsa spanning five generations have been produced to date. Opel recently received the 750,000th order for the current generation Corsa.

Dynamic, practical, stylish and very popular: the fifth Corsa generation is again a bestseller. Opel has just received the 750,000^th order for the current small car model since its market launch in late 2014. The stylish all-rounder thus continues the success story that started with the first Corsa in 1982. To date, more than 13 million Corsa vehicles from all generations have been built.

“The Corsa is one of our most important models in Europe and accounts for around one-quarter of Opel’s total sales volume. Depending on the version, it is the perfect car for singles and couples as well as for the whole family,” says Peter Küspert, Opel/Vauxhall Vice President Sales & Aftersales.

And the Corsa has not just won over customers, over the years it has also collected many awards, including the recent “Small Car of the Year 2016” title in Ireland, “Eco Car of the Year 2016” in Latvia, “Most Sensible Car 2015” and “Value Champion 2015” in Germany as well as the AUTOBEST award “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015”. This shows that the Opel Corsa is a true European.

There are good reasons for this success: Opel Corsa combines a pleasant, stylish atmosphere and driving fun with top technologies from higher vehicle classes. In the small bestseller, the Opel design philosophy “Sculptural artistry meets German precision” meets top comfort and modern assistance systems as well as best digital connectivity with Opel OnStar and IntelliLink infotainment. The portfolio also impresses with powerful and efficient turbo gasoline, turbo diesel and LPG engines. The entire package’s price-performance ratio is superb. Entry into the Corsa world is already possible for €11,995 for the sporty three-door model with a 51 kW/70 hp 1.2-liter gasoline engine (NEDC fuel consumption: urban 6.7-6.6^[1] l/100 km, extra-urban 4.6-4.5¹ l/100 km, combined 5.4-5.3¹ l/100 km, 126-124¹ g/km CO₂). For just €785 more, customers can opt for driving fun in the spacious, family-friendly five-door model (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

Opel Corsa: A success story in five acts

Act One: Opel Corsa A - 1982 to 1993

As the smaller “Kadett brother” the Opel Corsa A debuted with a crisp, short length of 3.62 meters, an exceptionally low, possibly record-breaking 0.36 drag coefficient and bold, flared wheelarches in rally car style. Chief designer Erhard Schnell had created a sporty small car with sharp, chiseled lines, intended to particularly appeal to ‘the man of the house’. The highlight was the 100 hp Corsa GSi, and diesel power was also introduced. The two-door hatch and notchback line-up was expanded in 1985 with the addition of the popular five-door model. The Corsa A became a highly-acclaimed top seller with 3.1 million units sold.

Act Two: Opel Corsa B - 1993 to 2000

Despite the success of Opel Corsa Nr. 1, the decision was taken in Rüsselsheim to position its successor as a real ‘ladies’ darling’. Designer Hideo Kodama set to work and created a much rounder, softer Opel Corsa, with appealing ‘saucer-eye’ headlamps. Opel Corsa B was ten centimeters longer and much more spacious inside. It also introduced higher safety standards to its segment, including ABS, side-impact protection and front airbags. For special markets, next to the hatchback Opel again offered a notchback as well as station wagon and pick-up variants. Gasoline engines already had fuel-injection technology and catalytic converters, while the GSi featured 16 valves and diesel power was now turbo-charged. The second Opel Corsa was successful around the world, and sales topped the four million mark.

Act Three: Opel Corsa C - 2000 to 2006

Hideo Kodama was again asked to design the shape of the Opel Corsa C. The styling was consciously oriented towards its successful predecessor. The new Corsa grew again by ten centimeter in length and had a wider stance with a longer wheelbase, which greatly increased interior space. For the first time, the body was fully galvanized. Sophisticated four-valve ECOTEC gasoline and new direct-injection turbo diesel engines ensured strong power, low fuel consumption and lowest emission values – all variants already complied to the stringent Euro 4 emission standards. The Corsa C also became a star performer and sold 2.5 million units.

Act Four: Opel Corsa D - 2006 to 2014

Like the Opel Corsa B, the three and five-door versions went their separate ways: the three-door Opel Corsa had unique, coupé-like styling aimed at sporty customers, just like the original Opel Corsa A. The five-door variant became a spacious, fully-fledged family car. Opel Corsa D was just under four meters long. With Opel’s ecoFLEX technology, the Corsa had fuel-saving Start/Stop systems and highly efficient engines. The fourth generation reached sales of 2.8 million units.

Act Five: Opel Corsa E - Since 2014

With 750,000 orders to date, the fifth Corsa generation is also built in the Opel plants in Zaragoza and Eisenach as three and five-door variants. Eisenach is also home to production of the Opel ADAM family, so now the Corsa has little brothers – just like the Kadett once had the Corsa.

^[1] With low-rolling-resistance tires.

!NEW! Opel IntelliLux LED Matrix Light: “SAFETYBEST 2015”

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.

!NEW! Award Ceremony: Opel Group CEO Dr. Neumann Accepts the AUTOBEST 2015 Award for the New Corsa

• Large gala in Zagreb: Festive evening with international guests
• Second win in a row: New Opel Corsa repeats the success of its predecessor
• “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015”: New Corsa convinces jury from 15 countries

Visit to Zagreb: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann and the new, award-winning Corsa in front of the Croatian National Theater.

Yesterday evening was entirely dedicated to the new Opel Corsa. Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann accepted the prestigious AUTOBEST 2015 award in the Croatian capital of Zagreb. The new small car from Rüsselsheim saw off the competition posed by the Hyundai i20, Skoda Fabia and Citroën C4 Cactus mainly because of its outstanding price-performance ratio and reaped the title of “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015”.

AUTOBEST gala: Jury chairman Dan Vardie with Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann at the award ceremony in the Croatian capital of Zagreb. 

“We at Opel are extremely proud to receive the highly prestigious AUTOBEST 2015 award for our new Corsa. I would like to thank the jury on behalf of the entire team. Our customers obviously agree too. 120,000 orders for the new Corsa since its world premiere in Paris last October are further proof that we will continue the Corsa’s success story with this fifth generation after having already sold 12.4 million Corsa in the last 32 years,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Neumann at the gala in Zagreb.

Great honor: Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann received the “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015“ award from AUTOBEST President Ilia Seliktar (right) for the new Opel Corsa. Actress and singer Mila Elegovic hosted the event.

Speaking on behalf of the entire jury, made up of members from 15 central and eastern European countries, jury chairman Dan Vardie added: “The new Corsa proved to be a great small car. All the jury members noticed the arguments that made the new Opel `The Best Buy Car of Europe in 2015`.”

Prominent guests from media and politics attended the gala in Zagreb hosted by actress and singer Mila Elegovic.

Three angels for Corsa: The delightful Opel brand ambassadors Mila Elegovic, Aleksandra Dojcinovic and Renata Sopek (from left to right) present the “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015“ in Zagreb - New Opel Corsa.

The AUTOBEST award is extremely popular and highly respected in a market comprising around 300 million people. The Corsa is one of the most important cars for Opel with its sales accounting for around one quarter of the brand’s overall sales. The fourth generation Corsa D, which also received the AUTOBEST award, was responsible for almost three million sales between 2006 and 2014. The new Corsa is a cornerstone of Opel’s current product offensive. Opel will bring 27 new cars and 17 new engines to market by 2018. 

!NEW! Opel Corsa E is Car of the Year 2015 for Greece

Just weeks after the official presentation to the public of Europe and the Greek presentation in Santorini, the new Opel Corsa E simultaneously won two major distinctions, one European and one Greek !

New Opel Corsa E - Car of the Year 2015 for Greece. The Jury members along with Opel Mktg and Communication Managers

This is the European 'AutoBest 2015' and 'Car of the Year 2015' for Greece.

New Opel Corsa E - President and CEO of GM Hellas, John Passadis and Communication Manager Amalia Giannakopoulou 

The President and CEO of GM Hellas, John Passadis said: 'We are very happy and yet very proud for both titles, but much more for the prize we won here in Greece, the' Car of 2015 '. The honor this distinction came from professional journalists - members of the institution, who appreciated the technological innovations that brings the new Opel Corsa E, safety, premises and performance of new engines. The new Opel Corsa E will continue to be best seller in both Greece and the rest of Europe'.

New Opel Corsa E - Car of the Year 2015 for Greece

!NEW! Opel Corsa E Wins Prestigious AUTOBEST 2015 Award

• “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015”: Opel’s new small car wins over expert jury
• First car in AUTOBEST history to win for consecutive generations

Unbeatable: The new Opel Corsa saw off stiff competition to win the AUTOBEST “Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015” award, becoming the first car in AUTOBEST history to win for consecutive generations.

The new Opel Corsa is a real winner. Just three months after its launch, Opel has already received over 55,000 orders for the fifth generation of the small car. And now the bestseller has already taken the spotlight on the European stage: the Opel Corsa has won the AUTOBEST 2015 award. At the large test finale in Belgrade, Serbia, the newcomer prevailed with a total of 994 points over the likewise brand-new competitors Hyundai i20 (906 points), Skoda Fabia (871 points) and Citroën C4 Cactus (830 points) making it the first ever car in AUTOBEST history to win the prestigious award for consecutive generations.

The AUTOBEST expert jury is made up of leading motoring journalists from 15 central and eastern European countries. Comprising around 300 million people, the award is extremely popular and highly respected in this market. Only cars with a compelling price-performance ratio can win this title, because next to classic vehicle characteristics, the jury also carefully considers maintenance costs, spare-parts distribution and dealers’ range of services. Ultimately the best deal for the normal, average customer is victorious – and the Opel Corsa proved to be unbeatable. Dan Vardie, chairman of the AUTOBEST jury, stated: “The new Corsa proved to be a great small car. All the jury members noticed the arguments that made the new Opel `The Best Buy Car of Europe in 2015`. The new generation is a meaningful evolution of the Opel model that won AUTOBEST award seven years ago”.

“Best Buy Car of Europe for 2015”: The AUTOBEST expert jury made up of leading motoring journalists from 15 central and eastern European countries gave the prestigious award to the new Opel Corsa.

“We are convinced that the Corsa is the best new small car, and now the AUTOBEST jury has confirmed this. We are very proud of this. The new Corsa generation stands for the art of German engineering, emotional design and excellent value for money. Safety and assistance systems as well as new, state-of-the-art engines and transmissions are real technological highlights,” says Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann.

The Corsa is one of Opel’s most important models and accounts for around one-fourth of the tradition-rich brand’s total sales. In the 32 years since the first Corsa generation was introduced to the market, over 12.4 million units of the small car have been sold. The fourth generation alone, the Corsa D, sold around three million units between 2006 and 2014 and won the AUTOBEST award in 2007. The new Corsa is also a cornerstone of Opel’s ongoing product offensive: to 2018, the brand will introduce 27 new cars and 17 new engines to the market.