!NEW! Buick Envision SUV to Debut in China Soon

Shanghai GM announced that the all-new Buick Envision will be unveiled in Chengdu, China on 28. August. It is one of the most significant models to be introduced to the SUV market this year in China. Leveraging GM's vehicle engineering and design expertise, the Envision is a completely new model that represents Buick's latest design philosophy and cutting-edge technologies. The Envision will complement the Buick Encore and new Enclave in Buick's domestic SUV portfolio, helping the brand make a splash in the Chinese mainstream SUV market.

The Envision carries forward the design essence of the Buick Envision concept vehicle, reflecting Buick's new design language that emphasizes "dynamics, smooth ride, tranquility, and comfort." The overall design is not only sporty and elegant, but features SUV styling cues. The front end is highlighted by the brand's signature waterfall drag-reducing grille, wing-styled HID automatic headlamps, LED daytime running lights, all of which give the Envision an aggressive stance. An aluminum alloy luggage rack and class-leading 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels echo the stylish design. The Envision measures 4,667 mm in length, 1,839 mm in width and 1,696 mm in height, and rides on a segment-leading wheelbase of 2,750 mm. Meanwhile, the model features adjustable seats as well as rear seats that can slide forward or backward within a maximum range of 180 mm, giving it a distinct advantage in the midsize SUV segment. Its flexible, spacious interior satisfies customers' expectations for comfort, convenience, and functionality from an SUV.

Another highlight of the Envision is its 2.0T Direct Injection Turbocharged engine, which was named one of Ward's 10 Best Engines in 2013. The engine generates maximum output power of 191 kW and peak torque of 353 Nm. Sporting the stop/start technology for the first time, a new-generation six-speed DSS intelligent transmission offers smooth gear shifting while significantly reducing fuel consumption in city driving. Unlike traditional AWD systems that distribute power after detecting tire slippage, the Envision's new all-wheel-drive technology can automatically distribute power between front and rear wheels as well as between two rear wheels in a faster manner. This helps significantly enhance steering stability and drive capability to ensure a superb ride. With its advantages in styling, space, safety, performance, and technology, the Envision is ready to meet consumers' requirements for urban SUVs.

!NEW! Shanghai GM Offers Preview of New Buick Envision SUV

High-end midsize SUV goes on sale across China later this year

Shanghai GM yesterday offered a preview of the all-new  Buick Envision, announcing its Chinese name as “Ang Ke Wei” (昂科威), showing its specifications and the first official photos. The new high-end midsize SUV will go on sale across China later this year.

Shanghai GM Offers Preview of New Buick Envision SUV

The Envision is a completely new model that represents a convergence of Buick's latest global design philosophy and cutting-edge technologies. It will set a new benchmark in its segment in China for styling, space, safety, performance and technology.

Elegant and Dynamic Exterior

The model carries forward the design essence of the Buick Envision concept vehicle, which made its global debut at Auto Shanghai 2011.

Buick Envision concept (2011)

The exterior blends artistic elegance with dynamic lines. Its front end is highlighted by Buick’s signature waterfall grille along with wing-style intelligent Xenon headlamps, boomerang-shaped LED daytime running lights and sleek outside rearview mirrors. The windshield with a one-piece chrome-plated frame gives the Envision an aggressive stance. Class-leading 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels and a luggage rack echo the stylish design.

Headlights in wing-style with intelligent Xenon headlamps, boomerang-shaped LED DRLS

The Envision measures 4,667 mm in length, 1,839 mm in width and 1,696 mm in height. It has a wheelbase of 2,750 mm, which contributes to its spacious interior.

Powerful Turbocharged Engine

Another highlight of the  Buick Envision SUV is its 2.0T Direct Injection Turbocharged engine, which was named one of Ward's 10 Best Engines in 2013. The engine generates maximum output power of 191 kW and peak torque of 353 Nm. It includes stop/start technology, for better fuel economy.

A new-generation six-speed transmission offers smooth gear shifting while significantly reducing fuel consumption in city driving. Its all-wheel-drive technology ensures solid handling on all surfaces.

The Envision will complement the Encore and new Enclave in Buick’s domestic SUV portfolio, providing a range of choices for SUV buyers across China.

General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 10 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 58,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2013, GM sold nearly 3.2 million vehicles in China.

All-New Buick Envision SUV to Make Premiere in China

Shanghai GM today announced that its all-new high-end midsize SUV, the Buick Envision, will make its premiere in China later this year.

All-new high-end midsize SUV, the Buick Envision, will make its premiere in China later this year.

Inspired by the Buick Envision concept vehicle, the newest member of the Buick SUV family has dynamic and assertive styling. It fuses iconic Buick design cues with the brand’s new high-end, refined global design concepts.

Buick Envision SUV concept

The Envision adopts a new-generation powertrain along with GM’s new all-wheel-drive technology. The fuel-saving start/stop technology will come standard across the line. The model is destined to set a new benchmark in China’s high-end midsize SUV segment for space, safety, performance and specifications.

Buick Envision SUV concept - Interior

The new model will complement the Encore and new Enclave in Buick’s China SUV portfolio, providing a range of choices for SUV buyers.  

!NEW! Opel FlexFix: Carries up to Four Bicycles for Drive and Ride Fun

• Opel-Exclusive bicycle carrier system available for nine model variants
• Sophisticated construction ensures simple, back-friendly operation
• Trunk space and access remain undisturbed even when bikes are mounted on carrier
• Up to 20 percent fuel savings compared to roof rack systems

Opel Zafira Tourer with FlexFix - The flexible compact MPV can transport up to four bikes

Springtime equals bicycle riding time. During the Easter holidays, families with two children want to enjoy the outdoors on their bikes. That is a breeze with Opel’s fully integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier system that enables families and active vacationers to transport up to four bicycles on their trip – with FlexFix it’s easy, space-saving and safe. Opel offers the patented system for nearly all models. The new Meriva offers the practical bicycle carrier, as do the Astra five-door and Sports Tourer models, the three and five-door Corsa, Antara, Mokka and Zafira Tourer. Even the cool individualization champion ADAM can carry up to two bikes, living up to its name as an unconventional urban lifestyle mini.

AGR-certified ergonomics: FlexFix bicycle carrier in new Opel Meriva MPV

Opel Meriva MPV was the first production car in the world to be recognized for its overall ergonomics concept by experts from “Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V” (Campaign for Healthier Backs) in 2010. A major element of the concept is the FlexFix bicycle carrier. Opel remains the only car maker to offer this user-friendly bicycle carrier system that is also on board the new Meriva. With it, the ergonomic and very flexible van can carry two bikes with a maximum load of 40 kg. FlexFix is fully integrated in the Meriva; it slides in and out of the rear bumper like a drawer. When not in use, it disappears almost invisibly back into the Meriva’s rear bumper without affecting the load volume of its luggage compartment. As the FlexFix bicycle carrier is located close to the ground, loading bicycles is very easy. The main advantage of the system explicitly praised by the back experts is that the cyclist-drivers do not have to cumbersomely mount a rack on the car roof or strain and twist to lift their bikes up above their head onto the rack. No special tools or fittings are necessary to install bikes on the FlexFix carrier, which also frees up room in the garage, as it doesn’t require any storage space because it is always on board and ready for use in the Meriva.

A further benefit of the FlexFix bicycle carrier is that in contrast to roof rack systems, its economical positioning at the rear does not subject the vehicle to a 120 km/h speed limit when loaded. This stable arrangement is particularly secure during a sharp braking maneuver or a collision. As soon as the reverse gear is engaged, an acoustic signal sounds which indicates the longer length of the vehicle. The Park Pilot in addition takes into account the fact that FlexFix is deployed if the driver wants to park and reverses backwards.

Second-generation FlexFix – A bicycle tour with the whole family

The second-generation Opel FlexFix system for the versatile compact Astra Sports Tourer station wagon and the compact Zafira Tourer van can carry up to four bikes, while in the sporty, elegant lifestyle Mokka SUV it can transport up to three bicycles. When loaded, this FlexFix version can be tilted so that the tailgate can be opened easily. This means the luggage compartment remains accessible from outside, even with four bikes (depending on model) mounted on the rear of the car.

The enhanced Opel FlexFix system offers increased load capacity: the first and second bikes can weigh up to 30 kilograms each. Even the small ADAM can carry a bicycle weighing up to 30 kg, and with an additional adapter a second bike (maximum 20 kg) for the ADAM co-driver. For the Astra Sports Tourer and Zafira Tourer, the second generation FlexFix is available with an extension kit including a clip-on adapter so that a further two bicycles up to 20 kg each can be transported. The entire loading capacity is 80 kg (Mokka: 60 kg). Special holders with rubber inlays ensure that the bikes are held securely in place.

Opel ADAM with FlexFix Even the cool individualization champion can carry up to two bikes

Studies have shown that additional fuel consumption with bicycles mounted on the rear is around 20 percent lower than when they are mounted on the vehicle’s roof. So the integrated FlexFix system saves fuel costs while it reduces impact on the environment.

Opel Mokka with FlexFix - The sporty, elegant lifestyle SUV can transport up to three bicycles

Prices for the FlexFix bicycle carrier are 590 euros in the ADAM, Corsa, Meriva and Mokka, 640 euros in the five-door Astra, and 650 euros in the Antara. The enhanced FlexFix system can be purchased for 790 euros for the Astra Sports Tourer and Zafira Tourer. Depending on car model, the adapter kit which provides space for a third and fourth bicycle is available from 189 euros (all prices RRP in Germany including VAT). So with the integrated FlexFix system, Opel drivers often have a more practical yet lower-priced solution than drivers with conventional rear bike carriers that also need a trailer hitch as a base.

Increased load capacity - FlexFix in the Opel Astra Sports Tourer carries up to four bikes with an entire loading capacity of 80 kg.

!NEW! Opel Antara SUV Achieves Best Fuel Economy of 6.5 L/100 km during GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge

Opel Antara SUV - Test Drive

The Opel Antara SUV made its first appearance in the 2013 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge, which visited Shenyang on October 26. The 10 front-wheel-drive Antara owners who participated averaged fuel consumption of 7.3 liters per 100 kilometers over 104 kilometers. The winning driver, Mr. Wang Shoulian, had fuel economy of 6.5 liters per 100 kilometers.

Participants drove their Antaras on urban expressways, along rural roads and at the Qipanshan off-road test-drive venue. This complex route seriously tested the fuel efficiency, performance and overall capability of the Antara.

Opel Antara SUV - Off-road Test Drive

"I was originally attracted to the Antara by its dynamic appearance, refined interior and excellent handling,” said Mr. Wang Shoulian. “It also provides excellent safety, even on Shenyang’s snow-covered roads. The Antara’s outstanding fuel economy for an SUV is a real bonus that is enabling me to explore the city limits and beyond.”

Opel Antara SUV - Track Experience

The imported Antara is Opel’s best-selling model in China. It has a sporty exterior with chrome accents as well as a roomy interior that makes it ideal for business and family use. It also comes with a range of advanced safety features such as an upgraded ABS system and Hill Start Assist (HSA). Its electronically controlled All-Wheel-Drive (AWD system combines the advantages of Front-Wheel Drive (FWD), such as low fuel consumption, with the traction benefits of all-wheel drive. While the engine normally powers the front wheels, the system seamlessly redistributes power to both front and rear axles if inadequate traction is detected.

Opel Antara SUV - Consumers Group Photo

The annual GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge began in 2011. It was created to demonstrate how GM is addressing demand for high fuel efficiency through the products it builds and sells across China. The 2013 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge Series kicked off on June 15 in Kunming. Shenyang was the fourth of six stops. Under the theme of “Drive Smarter, Drive Further,” this year’s activity is showcasing the fuel economy of products from the Buick, Chevrolet, Cadillac, Baojun and Opel brands. More information can be found on the Official Event Site and the 2013 GM China Consumer Fuel-Saving Challenge Weibo App.

General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 58,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China. It has been the sales leader among global automakers in the market for eight consecutive years.

!NEW! Opel FlexFix: Easily Carries up to Four Bicycles

Opel-Exclusive bicycle carrier system available for nine model variants

Second generation of rear bicycle carrier now also for newcomers ADAM and Mokka

Sophisticated construction ensures simple, back-friendly operation

Trunk space and access remain undisturbed even when bikes are mounted on carrier

Up to 20 percent fuel savings compared to roof rack systems

Opel ADAM with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier

Opel’s fully integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier system makes taking your own bike with you on vacation a breeze. Families and active vacationers can transport up to four bicycles on their trip – with FlexFix it’s easy, space-saving and safe. Opel offers the patented system for nearly all models ranging from the Astra, Corsa, Antara and Meriva all the way to the “Lounge on Wheels” Zafira Tourer. The newest members of the FlexFix club are the sub-compact Mokka SUV and the urban lifestyle car ADAM.

Opel Corsa with FlexFix bike carrier

Opel is the only automaker to offer this user-friendly transport system that is fully integrated in the rear of the vehicle and so is always on board. The bicycle carrier can be effortlessly pulled out and disappears invisibly back into the rear bumper when not in use. It is always ready to use everywhere, for instance to pick up the children and their bikes when they get caught in an unexpected rainstorm. Another major advantage of the second-generation FlexFix system is that even when fully loaded, it can be tilted so that the tailgate of the vehicle can be opened easily. So the luggage compartment remains easily accessible, even with four bikes mounted on the rear of the car.

Opel Astra 5-door  with FlexFix bike carrier

Second-generation FlexFix – Bicycle vacation with the whole family

The second-generation Opel FlexFix system for the versatile compact Astra Sports Tourer station wagon and the compact Zafira Tourer van can carry up to four bikes, while for the sub-compact Mokka SUV it can transport up to three bicycles. The enhanced Opel FlexFix system offers increased load capacity: the first and second bikes can now weigh up to 30 kilograms each (previously 20 kilograms max.), which is also practical for transporting most e-bikes. Even the chic urban car ADAM can carry a bicycle weighing up to 30 kg, and with an additional adapter a second bike for the ADAM co-driver. 

Opel Astra ST with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier

On larger Opel models, the second-generation FlexFix is available with an extension kit including a clip-on adaptor so that a further two bicycles up to 20 kilograms each can be transported. The entire loading capacity is 80 kilograms (Mokka: 60 kg). Special holders with rubber inlays ensure that the bikes are held securely in place.

Opel Mokka SUV with second-generation FlexFix bike carrier

Flexible, easy, back-friendly – exceptional Opel technology

With FlexFix Opel remains the only car maker to offer a bicycle carrier system that is fully integrated and always on board. The user-friendly bicycle carrier is very easy to operate as it can be adjusted by hand without the need to use tools, and offers a host of practical functions. When not in use it disappears invisibly into the rear bumper like a drawer. This is another example of typical onboard flexibility á la Opel.

Opel Antara SUV with FlexFix bike carrier

Another big plus point of the Opel FlexFix system is its outstanding ergonomics. In contrast to other systems such as roof racks where you have to twist and lift the bicycle high over your head, the FlexFix carrier is located close to the ground, making cumbersome lifting superfluous and mounting bicycles on your car nearly effortless and back-friendly. The back experts at Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR – Campaign for Healthy Backs) praised this when they awarded their highly coveted seal of approval to the Meriva for its overall ergonomic concept including the FlexFix carrier. The Meriva was the first production car in the world to receive this distinction.

Opel Meriva MPV with FlexFix bike carrier

Studies have shown that additional fuel consumption with bicycles mounted on the rear is around 20 percent lower than when they are mounted on the vehicle’s roof. So the integrated Opel FlexFix system saves fuel costs while it reduces impact on the environment. In contrast to those with roof rack systems, the vehicle is not subject to a 120 km/h speed limit, as the bikes are stored at the rear. This stable arrangement is particularly secure during a sharp braking maneuver or an impact. If a park pilot is on board and the gearbox in reverse, an acoustic signal warns the driver that the bicycle carrier is still fully extended.

The prices for the FlexFix carrier start at 420 euros in the five-door Astra, at 590 euros in the Corsa and Meriva and 650 euros in the Antara. The newly enhanced FlexFix system can be purchased for 570 euros for the Astra Sports Tourer, for 590 euros for the ADAM and Mokka and for 790 euros for the Zafira Tourer. The adaptor kit which provides space for a third and fourth bicycle with the new system is available from 106.50 euros (all prices RRP in Germany including VAT). The integrated FlexFix system often costs less than other rear bike carriers that also need a trailer hitch as a base.

!NEW! General Motors (GM) 2013 Sales Reach 1 Million in China

General Motors (GM) sold its 1 millionth vehicle in China yesterday, the earliest it has ever done this in a calendar year.

GM first sold 1 million vehicles in a single year in China in December of 2007. Last year GM reached the milestone on May 7. On April 22, GM achieved it again -- and the earliest in the company’s history.

“This is a great start to the year and a big accomplishment for our team,” said Bob Socia, President, GM China, and Chief Country Operations Officer, China, India and ASEAN. “We will continue bringing new products and expanding our dealerships to boost sales.”

GM and its joint ventures are adding to their product lineups by launching 17 new and upgraded models in China this year. They include the Chevrolet Cruze hatchback; the new Wuling Sunshine; two new Jiefang light-duty trucks, the S230 and F330; and the Insignia Sports Tourer (ST), Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC from Opel.

The company is also expanding its dealer network to make it easier for its customers in China to buy and service their vehicles. It is adding 400 dealers in 2013 alone, which will give it 4,200 dealers at year end.

General Motors traces its roots back to 1908. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 55,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. Passenger cars and commercial vehicles are sold under the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China. It has been the sales leader among global automakers in the market for eight consecutive years.

!NEW! Opel back at the Shanghai Motor Show: Insignia ST, Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer MPV

Opel Insignia ST

Three models, arriving in the Chinese market this year, are at the heart of the Opel exhibition space at the Shanghai Motor Show (April 20 – 29). After an absence of five years, Opel is back at China’s main Motor Show and presenting the Insignia ST (Sports Tourer), Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer. Also on display is the Opel Antara mid-range SUV, todays Opel’s best-selling model in China.

Opel Astra GTC

“The three new Opel entries will broaden the brand’s product lineup in China to help satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of Chinese vehicle buyers. They embody Opel’s proud heritage of German engineering and technology excellence. With these award-winning models we are making a highly attractive offer to our Chinese customers in three more different market segments. ”, said Jürgen Keller, Director International Operations, Adam Opel AG.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

The new models represent three types of vehicles, becoming more and more popular among China’s growing younger generation: station wagons, MPV’s and coupes. “They tend to seek out distinctive and fresh products to enrich their lifestyles and set them apart. They demand high-quality details and stylish character in the things they buy. Opel products are well suited to meet the demands of these younger consumers”, said Keller. The Insignia ST will go on sale at all Opel dealerships across China shortly after the Shanghai Motor Show. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC will go on sale in the second half of 2013. Last year, Opel sold about 4,500 cars in China with 22 dealers.

Opel Antara SUV

Opel’s activities on the Chinese market are part of an ongoing export offensive. In the past 24 months, the brand has successfully entered markets as Israel, Singapore, Chile, Australia and the United Arab Emirates. Opel will continue to look for export opportunities, assuming it makes business sense.

General Motors and its joint ventures will display more than 50 different vehicle models at Auto Shanghai 2013. The products range from small cars to luxury passenger vehicles to light-duty trucks from the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 55,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China.

!NEW! Transmission production Anniversary at Opel in Rüsselsheim

• Factory produced the millionth copy of the manual six-speed gearbox
• Overall, more than 11 million transmissions from Rüsselsheim since 1899

Marc Schiff, Executive Director of Manufacturing (2nd from right), plant director Axel Scheiben  (1st from right), production director Michael Eiermann (1st from left) and Albert Hoehn, Director of Transmission Plant (2nd from left) with the anniversary copy.

In the Rüsselsheim plant today was attended by Executive Director Manufacturing, Marc ship factory director Axel discs, the one millionth copy of the manual six-speed gearbox F40 from the assembly line. The 50 kg light transmission with aluminum housing provides maximum comfort and control can transmit up to 400 Newton meters of torque. It comes in the model series Astra, Insignia, Zafira Tourer and Antara used.

Albert Hoehn, Director of the transmission plant: "We work with state of the art manufacturing facilities. Means that only transmissions are shipped in highest quality to our customers, our qualified employees ensure their experience and commitment. "

With its entry into the automobile production in 1899 in Rüsselsheim Opel has started the production of gears. To date, over eleven million units were produced at the site. The current six-speed manual gearbox is manufactured since April 2003. The F40 transmission is produced in three series: a series of front-wheel drive vehicles, for a four-wheel drive vehicles and one for the high-performance OPC models. In its latest generation, it offers the customer Schaltpräsizion and shift comfort at the highest level.

The transmission from Rüsselsheim to be installed not only in the European Opel plants in Rüsselsheim, Bochum, Ellesmere Port (Great Britain) and Gliwice (Poland) in the vehicles - they are also used within the Group of GM. Rüsselsheim provides, for example, in the USA, Canada, Australia and South Korea, where the transmission used in vehicles from Buick and Chevrolet.

!NEW! Opel Brings Three New Models to China

New Opel range in China

Opel unveiled its new brand positioning in China this evening as it introduced three new models during Opel Brand Night at the Beijing Olympic Exhibition Hall SAVOR Center. Opel will begin offering the Insignia Sports Tourer (ST) station wagon, Zafira Tourer MPV and Astra GTC coupe in China later this year.

On photo from left: Opal Liu, Product Planning Manager, GM China Opel Operations; Chin Lim Ong, Director, Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing, GM China; Cynthia Chen, Director, GM China Opel Operations

“Opel is pleased to show the people of China the humanity, spirit, vitality and environmental responsibility of GM’s German brand,” said Chen Wenxin, Director of GM China Opel Operations. “By expanding our product offerings, Opel aims to provide a wider range of driving choices to help local consumers enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.”

New Zafira Tourer MPV, Insignia ST and Astra GTC on OPEL Brand Night

The new models represent three of the most popular types of vehicles in China: station wagon, MPV and coupes. They complement the mid-range Opel SUV, the Antara, which is currently sold in China. The price of the Insignia ST will be announced next month at Auto Shanghai 2013 and the model will go on sale at all major Opel dealerships across China shortly thereafter. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC will go on sale in the second half of 2013 with pricing to be announced closer to sale.

China’s growing younger generation tends to seek out distinctive and fresh products to enrich their lifestyles and set them apart. They demand high-quality details and stylish character in the things they buy. Opel products are well suited to meet the demands of these younger consumers, due to their German engineering, innovative brand spirit and the company’s environmental consciousness.

Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (ST)

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (ST) station wagon has exciting styling and powerful performance that turns heads whether zipping through city streets or cruising in the countryside. Its interior is characterized by a practical spacious design and cutting-edge technology.

The Insignia ST is aerodynamic, yet its full-bodied extended-wheel design makes it nearly twice the size of a coupe and gives it a very powerful look. The contours along the sides of the car give it a sculpted appearance. A three-dimensional center line design runs from the front to the back, mirroring classic Opel styling cues. The Insignia ST has a large dramatic cabin, supple leather seats and nickel-titanium finishes wrapped in soft materials, all which reflect its sporty spirit. 

The ECOTEC 2.0 liter turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engine in the Insignia ST has the best power per liter performance in its class at 81 kW/L. Its maximum power is 162 kW, while its peak torque is 350 Nm, and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.1 seconds. Its six-speed automatic transmission is the perfect partner for the engine. While guaranteeing smooth and accurate shifting with low noise, it also effectively lowers fuel consumption for overall fuel efficiency of 9.6 liters per 100 km.

The smart FlexRide system significantly enhances performance and control. The driver can switch between the three driving modes of "normal," "sport" and "tour" according to the driving experience desired. The Insignia ST can also handle a variety of road surfaces thanks to its adaptive 4X4 system.

The Insignia ST has the most advanced extra-long wheelbase in its class. Its reconfigurable interior space, storage areas and luggage rack provide a range of options for taking trips and transporting cargo. Many convenient functions are provided as well, such as a wide-view electric sunroof, ergonomic seats, a smart parking guidance system and Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) Bi-Xenon headlamps.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

Combining a modern design with the interior space of an MPV, the Opel Zafira Tourer has a dynamic look, responsive handling and advanced technologies to meet the varying demands of driving enthusiasts as well as those looking for an ideal family vehicle.

The distinctive front end is defined by bold “boomerang” graphics in the lighting units that sweep from the headlights to the fog lamps. Together with the iconic Opel center crease on the hood and strong trapezoidal grille, this creates a dynamic, progressive look that is unexpected for a vehicle in this segment. The panoramic windshield seamlessly flows into a generous wide-view glass sunroof, creating a bright and airy atmosphere for occupants.

Another distinctive feature of the Opel Zafira Tourer is the Flex7 seating system. It provides first-class comfort and the unique feeling of travelling in a “lounge on wheels” by maximizing interior space and ergonomics. The cargo volume is 1,860 liters with all seats folded down, making the Zafira Tourer ideal for a business trip or extended vacation.

The Zafira Tourer also has more than 30 storage compartments, including the multi-functional FlexRail center console. The console comes with a large storage box as well as cupholders that slide on aluminum rails to the desired position, enabling flexible use of the generous storage space between the front seats.

Opel Astra GTC Coupe

The Opel Astra GTC is a sporty compact coupe with a striking design, dynamic performance, and attention to details that make driving pleasurable.

The most prominent feature of the Astra GTC’s appearance is its large panoramic windshield. It melts into the A-pillar and extends seamlessly from the hood to the roof back to the B-pillar. With no cross-member to spoil the view, it offers the driver and passengers a unique experience and a completely new sense of space and visibility with an almost unlimited field of vision, similar to the view from a jet’s cockpit.

The HiPerStrut front suspension system reduces the amount of camber change on the Astra GTC’s front wheels during cornering, improving grip and reducing torque steer. Steering feel is enhanced through a reduction in the steering system’s friction levels. The result is improved handling and more direct steering response, which sports car drivers prefer.

Designers paid great attention to the interior design details and finishes. The Astra GTC’s cockpit combines sculptured shapes and dynamic lines. Its distinct sporty character is enhanced by new, high-quality fabrics, fresh colors and materials on both trim levels. In addition, its multi-functional steering wheel, storage box at the left side beneath the wheel, adjustable armrest and center console give it daily-use functionality.

Opel Astra GTC offers comfortable seating for five adults with a flexible luggage compartment. Front seats offer the widest range of adjustments available in the segment and are ergonomically enhanced with eight-way adjustments.  The vehicle’s optional four-way lumbar and upper leg extension adjustments are certified by the independent back health experts from AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken - Action for Healthy Backs).

Opel Antara SUV

The Opel Antara has been offered in China since 2008.  This mid-range SUV features a unique exterior design, dynamic power and a functional interior that showcase its crossover features.

The Antara inherits Opel’s sporty DNA plus an off-road capability. It has a 2,707-mm wheelbase and a width of 1,850 mm, ensuring a roomy ride. It also has more than 20 storage spaces and flexible seats that can be folded down at a 60:40 ratio to maximize interior space for both the driver and passengers. 

The Antara is powered by a 2.4 liter ECOTEC aluminum four-cylinder D-VVT engine with dual-overhead camshafts and 16 valves. The gasoline engine delivers 123 kW/167 horsepower and 230 Nm/4,600 rpm for sustainable power. It also comes with an Active Select^® six-speed automatic transmission and the ITCC adaptive 4X4 system. As a result, the Antara has exceptional power, handling and relatively low fuel consumption. In addition, Opel has improved the Antara’s safety performance with the addition of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and the Descent Control System (DCS).

!NEW! Opel to Debut Three New Models in China

Opel Insignia ST, Opel Astra GTC and Opel Zafira Tourer MPV to be Unveiled on March 28

On March 28 an exclusive group of automotive and business journalists will get their first look at three Opel models coming to China this year – the Insignia ST, Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer. The models will make their China debut at the Opel Brand Night that evening in Beijing. The new Opel entries will enable the brand to broaden its product lineup in China to help satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of Chinese vehicle buyers.

Opel Insignia ST

"These three models meet the needs of buyers in different market segments. With their exquisite craftsmanship, innovative design and extraordinary performance, they will help support the growth of the Opel brand in China," said Chen Wenxin, Director of GM China Opel Operations.

Opel Astra GTC

The three models embody Opel’s proud heritage of German engineering and technology excellence. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC both feature modern designs, with a panoramic windshield and a high seating position for an excellent view of the road ahead. The Insignia ST and Zafira Tourer are each equipped with the FlexRide chassis control system, which provides a range of settings for the driver to enjoy a combination of dynamic yet comfortable driving.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

The three models have already won several international awards in Europe, including the “Golden Steering Wheel 2012” for the Zafira Tourer from Auto Bild and Bild am Sonntag, two leading automotive magazines in Germany, the 2009 “red dot design award” for the original version of Insignia ST - Insignia, and the 2012 “red dot design award” for the Astra GTC. The red dot award dates back to 1955 but has since grown into one of the biggest and most prestigious design competitions of the world.

Opel models are sold in China as part of GM’s multi-brand strategy to meet the needs of Chinese consumers. Opel is will also expand its nationwide distribution network in 2013 to make owning an Opel more convenient for customers. Today the Opel Antara mid-range SUV is Opel’s best-selling model in China.

 

Opel Antara SUV