"50 years of Opel Kadett C": Opel celebrates anniversary at 10th Bodensee Klassik

• Well-rounded: Opel takes compact class bestseller from 1973 to anniversary tour
• Sporty car, world champion at wheel: Niklas Kaul drives Opel Kadett GT/E
• Dynamic, modern, electrified: Top model Opel Astra GSe as escort vehicle

Double anniversary at this year's Bodensee Klassik : Varied classic rally will take place from May 4th to 6th for 10th time against a beautiful backdrop of foothills of the Alps. In addition, Opel is bringing out "Golden Jubilee" Kadett C , which celebrated its premiere exactly 50 years ago. Opel Kadett GT/E is a particularly sporty model from back then. GT/E will be driven by none other than decathlon world and European champion and Opel partner Niklas Kaul. But he's not the only one who can enjoy sporty performance of Opel vehicles. Organizers of Bodensee Klassik are also extremely dynamic and at the same time locally emission-free: in top model of "Golden Steering Wheel 2022" title winner 1, the new Opel Astra GSe (fuel consumption according to WLTP 2 : 1.2-1.1 l/100 km, CO 2 emissions 26-25 g/km; each combined).

Idyllic landscapes, picturesque stations, sporty rides

Since the start in 2012, Bodensee Klassik has been inspiring with its varied and scenic routes. This is exactly what characterizes 10th edition of classic rally. It starts on Thursday afternoon, May 4th, for  “Prologue” from Friedrichshafen through wide apple orchards. On Friday, May 5th, field of participants then embarks on “Bodensee-Umrundung” – a real three-country tour that leads from Germany through Switzerland, Austria and back to Friedrichshafen. By the end of the "Allgäu stage" on Saturday, May 6th, rally drivers and their co-drivers will have covered several hundred kilometers and will have gained unforgettable experiences.

Opel Kadett C: Compact class hero of  70s on tour

Opel is launching multi-faceted compact class Kadett C at anniversary rally. Whether as a neat family car, a chic second car with a practical tailgate or a powerful amateur athlete in war paint - family of Opel Kadett C produced from 1973 to 1979 has many faces. Characteristic design features are flat radiator grille, bonnet with brand-typical crease and front apron designed as a spoiler.

A special example at this year's Bodensee Klassik is Opel Kadett GT/E. Its 1.9‑liter engine with L-Jetronic injection from Bosch initially delivered 77 kW/105 hp and enabled a top speed of up to 184 km/h with an unladen weight of only around 900 kilograms. Second version of Opel Kadett GT/E with 85 kW/110 hp that followed in 1977 was intended to make entry into motorsport particularly easy. Competition vehicle, which was consistently trimmed for sporty use, still inspires enthusiasts today with its equipment from the two-liter engine with electronic fuel injection to ZF five-speed gearbox and limited-slip differential to the sporty tuned and reinforced chassis. Eye-catching white and yellow paintwork was standard.

One of these Opel fans is Niklas Kaul. Yyoungest decathlon world champion of all time and European champion 2022 appreciates top sporting performance with endurance. That's why he wants to experience power of Opel Kadett C for himself and gets behind the wheel at Bodensee Klassik. In addition, AUTO BILD KLASSIK editorial manager Malte Büttner and Opel Classic manager Leif Rohwedder will complete field in a 1972 Opel Commodore GS/E.

Dynamic on move: Opel Astra and Astra GSe support rally organizers

Top models of new Opel sub-brand GSe show how top dynamics can be combined with responsible driving fun in a modern and emotional way. Today, GSe stands for “Grand Sport electric”. Youngest offspring of Opel Kadett and Astra family, for example, also drives up as a rally support vehicle on Lake Constance as a sharp Opel Astra GSe . With a superior system output of 165 kW/225 hp and a maximum torque of a powerful 360 Newton meters, it sets standards in its class. And thanks to the 12.4 kWh lithium-ion battery, it can cover up to 64 kilometers locally emission-free according to WLTP 3 (EAER City according to WLTP 3: 69-73 km).

In addition, top-of-the-line GSe variant, like its siblings of the current Astra generation, implements the strong heritage of brand in an innovative and inspiring way: with clear, exciting lines without superfluous flourishes and characteristic Opel Vizor brand face inspired by Opel Manta A. Highest level of safety and comfort is also ensured: Opel Astra offers numerous state-of-the-art technologies from adaptive, non-glare IntelliLux LED Pixel light with a total of 168 LED elements to the Intelli-Drive system, which combines many driver assistance systems to the fully digital, intuitively operated Pure Panel Cockpit.

[1] AUTO BILD issue 45/2022 and BILD am SONNTAG issue 46/2022. Category "Best car up to 50,000 euros".

[2] Values ​​were determined using the more realistic test procedure WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure), which replaces test procedure with reference to NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). WLTP values ​​are also the basis for calculating vehicle-related taxes. A vehicle's consumption, CO 2 emissions and range not only depend on the efficient use of energy by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors. Further information on the official fuel consumption and the official specific CO 2 emissions of new passenger cars can be found in the “Guide to fuel consumption, the CO 2-Emissions and power consumption of new passenger cars” which is available free of charge at www.dat.de. Information on consumption and emissions does not refer to an individual vehicle and is not part of offer, but is intended solely for purposes of comparison between the various vehicle types.

[3] Specified range was determined using WLTP test procedure (Regulation (EG) No. 715/2007 and VO (EU) No. 2017/1151). Actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, road conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning and thermal preconditioning.

STADT:up Project: Opel Advances Automated Driving in Urban Areas

• Pioneering project STADT:up develops concepts and pilot applications for automated driving in complex city traffic
• Stellantis representative Opel participates in joint project as AI development partner
• Demonstration of complex environment recognition in the city by Opel vehicle prototype by end of 2025

Project STADT:up (Solutions and Technologies for Automated Driving in Town: an urban-mobility project) aims to take a big step closer to the goal of enabling automated driving in urban areas by the end of 2025. As the German brand in Stellantis, Opel is involved in the project funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action. The experts at the Rüsselsheim Engineering Center play an important role in the further development of vehicle environment recognition based on artificial intelligence (AI) and the translation into the situation-specific reaction in automated driving. Now the kick-off event of the consortium project with 22 project and development partners took place on the campus of Robert Bosch GmbH in Renningen, Germany. In addition, Opel aims to demonstrate an innovative prototype featuring complex environment recognition in urban areas by the end of 2025.

“By participating in the STADT:up project, Opel, as our German brand, is further advancing automated driving in urban traffic, on behalf of Stellantis. The engineers at the Rüsselsheim Engineering Center draw on many years of experience in this field. At the same time, we are strengthening our good cooperation with research institutions outside the company and continuing our commitment to supporting young scientists,” said Frank Jordan, Stellantis, Head of Innovation Germany.

Project goal: Demonstration of autonomous urban mobility with test vehicles

STADT:up is aimed at end-to-end, scalable solutions for future urban mobility. The vehicles must also be able to handle complex inner-city traffic scenarios safely and respond adequately to all situations within milliseconds. The various tasks for autonomous driving range from the comprehensive perception of the environment and the localisation of road users through the prediction, interaction and cooperation with other vehicles, to the behaviour and manoeuvre planning of the user’s own vehicle. The question of how mixed traffic consisting of pedestrians, cyclists, differently used vehicles and local public transport will develop is also of central importance. Correspondingly, suitable future concepts and the requirements derived from the needs of the users will also be developed in the project.

Key factors are the preparation and programming of the vehicle systems such as camera, LiDAR and radar to all possible scenarios until they are implemented in the computer system. This is where the AI experts at the Rüsselsheim site come into play. In addition to improving AI algorithms for perception and fusion, the team led by Dr. Nikolas Wagner and project manager Frank Bonarens places a special focus on the analysis and management of particularly challenging traffic situations. In addition to improving robustness, the aim of the research activities is to improve the traceability of the decisions of deep neural networks and to use them to check the plausibility of an automated driving system. This is intended to provide important building blocks for environment recognition in highly automated driving and to contribute to the efficient testing and validation of safety-relevant AI functions.

With the participation of the Rüsselsheim AI experts from the Stellantis research network, a long-standing Opel tradition of pre-competitive cooperation is continued. As with other research projects, the central pillars are the cooperation with renowned scientific partners from leading universities and research institutions as well as the doctoral program at the Rüsselsheim site.

In addition to automotive companies, leading suppliers as well as technology partners, universities and research institutions are represented in the consortium project led by Bosch. The highlight will be the final event planned for the end of 2025 with the joint presentation of the demonstrators developed in STADT:up. Opel's goal is to demonstrate the performance of the environment recognition system with its own test vehicle.

50th Anniversary: Opel Celebrates Record Breaking Elektro GT

• Six pack: Modified Opel GT sets world speed records for battery-electric cars
• Special development: Two electric motors, jet-fighter batteries, high-pressure tyres
• Bare necessities: No air intakes, mirrors or door handles
• First BEV with the Blitz: Elektro GT is predecessor of today’s Opel Corsa-e
• Need for speed: Georg von Opel in wheel tracks of cousin and “rocket man” Fritz

Opel Elektro GT

1971 was the year that Apollo 15 astronauts become the first to ride in an all-electric lunar rover after landing on the Moon. That year a unique Opel GT also proved that electric motors were not just for golf buggies. For on May 17-18, 1971 at the “Hockenheimring” racetrack in Germany, Georg von Opel set out to establish new speed records for electric cars with a specially prepared and modified sports car – the Opel “Elektro GT”. In the end the car set six world records.

Grandson of Opel-founder Adam Opel, a successful businessman and a world-class athlete, Georg von Opel's record attempt with the “Elektro GT” was not only “proof of concept” for the future of battery electric vehicles (BEV); it was also the continuation of a family tradition. His cousin “Raketen-Fritz” (rocket-man Fritz) grabbed the headlines from 1927 to 1929 with rocket-powered demonstrations that reached their peak at the Avus racetrack on May 23, 1928 with the RAK 2 and a top speed of 238 km/h.

“Elektro GT” was equipped with two Bosch DC electric motors that together produced 88 kW (120 hp) of continuous power and a peak power output of even 118 kW (160 hp).

Varta provided the four nickel-cadmium batteries installed beside and behind the driver. With 280 cells, the batteries added 590 kg to the 960 kg of the production GT, totalling 1,550 kg – about the same as an Opel Diplomat B.

Long distance record attempt necessitated three hundred and sixty cells, increasing the weight still further to 740 kg. Tipping the scales at 1,700 kg, the GT then weighed the same as a short wheelbase Opel Blitz truck. The extra weight required harder springs and Continental developed special high-pressure tyres that minimised the rolling friction to a minimum.

Modifications to the bodywork included closing all air intakes and outlets at the front, a “flat” bonnet without the production GT’s characteristic bulge for the carburettor, the removal of bumpers, mirrors and door handles, as well as the complete stripping of the engine and passenger compartments.

Just enough space for driver: Jet-fighter batteries fill up passenger compartment

An electronic management system occupied the boot and, unique for a GT, the rear of the car featured a large spoiler. The rear lamps were removed and the holes they left behind simply covered up. A heat exchanger replaced the exhaust system silencer.

A conventional car battery, providing the electricity for the electronics, sat at the front of the engine compartment where the electric motors replaced the petrol engine. The batteries (more usually found in jet-fighters), mounted in special racks, took up all the space beside and behind the driver, leaving him just enough room to sit on a normal seat.

Behind the steering wheel of the “Elektro GT”, Georg von Opel set four new world records for electrically powered cars on May 17, 1971:

Distance	Time	Speed
1.0 km	19.061s	188.86 km/h
1.0 km standing start	31.066s	115.88 km/h
0.5 km standing start	19.358s	92.98 km/h
0.25 mile standing start	16.869s	85.87 km/h
Two more records were added on May 18, both from a standing start:
10 km	4 min 43.69s	126.89 km/h
10 miles	7 min 35.63s	127.15 km/h

However, the low energy capacity of the Ni-Cd batteries prevented a new world record for 100 km at a constant speed of 100 km/h. Attempt ended after only 44 km.

First BEV from Opel, the “Elektro GT” demonstrated that a battery electric vehicle could match the speed of a contemporary sports car. Today, 50 years of development and innovation later, the former high performance runner has morphed into the Opel Corsa-e – an all-round athlete capable of not only sprinting from zero to 100 km/h in 8.1 seconds but also covering up to 337 km in the WLTP 1 cycle on a single charge of its lithium ion battery.

Opel Corsa-e

[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.

Opel Legend Turns 50: A Fish Called Manta

• From marine researchers and designers: how Opel Manta got its logo
• On the Baltic Sea coast: world premiere at appropriate location
• Big fish: Opel Manta A and B produced over one million times

It belongs to the Mobula genus (rays, stingrays) –  Opel Manta, probably the most fishy representative in a long line of Opel classics. This year, the coupé with the ray as logo is celebrating its 50th birthday. The Manta’s range extends from the German Baltic Sea to the American Pacific coast. Opel chief designer, George Gallion, on a secret mission, first discovered the ray from Rüsselsheim.

On a Saturday morning in 1969, Gallion boarded a plane to Paris. American designer who worked at Opel had agreed to meet the team of French marine researcher, Jacques Cousteau.

“We had chosen the name ‘Manta’”, said Gallion, 51 years after his Paris mission. “At that time, animal names matched the zeitgeist, the Ford Mustang and Corvette Stingray were very successful in the United States. Our Manta was also such a ‘pony car’. Now we had ten days to design a logo, but we couldn't find any suitable templates for it”,

So Gallion got on the plane and looked at Cousteau's images in the French capital. For hours. Until finally there was a shot in which a gigantic manta ray filmed from below against the bright surface. Bingo. That was it. The big catch. Opel Manta had found its identity and from then on got the iconic chrome-plated emblem attached to the front fenders.

Opel Manta made its debut at Timmendorfer Strand

Sporty Opel Manta made its debut in September 1970. Appropriately enough, the presentation took place at Timmendorfer Strand on the German Baltic Sea coast. For Opel, the Manta was a step into new territory. “Instead of making an existing model obsolete, the car we are presenting today is an addition to our range and meets a new demand from the market,” said the press release at the time.

Opel Manta was new, smart and sporty, and perfectly timed. Attractive coupés that could accommodate four were highly popular. Individuality was in fashion, the Manta’s shape and lines were just what the market was looking for. In the first full year of sales, Opel moved 56,200 units of the Manta out of the showrooms; 498,553 left the factory in total. Opel Ascona shared the platform, suspension and engines. Most powerful engine in Opel Manta was the four-cylinder 1.9 S with 90 hp, also used by the Opel Rekord.

Opel  Manta range began with the 60 hp 1.2 in 1972, followed in November of the same year by the luxuriously equipped Manta Berlinetta. Standard equipment included sports steering wheel, heated rear window, halogen headlamps, electric windscreen washers and vinyl roof. Five years of production were enriched by numerous special model variants – “Holiday”, “Plus”, “Swinger” and “Summer Bazar” combined up-market specifications with modest prices. Opel Manta GT/E, powered by a 105 hp, 1.9-litre engine with Bosch L Jetronic fuel injection, appeared in 1974. The trend towards matt instead of chrome trim continued with the Manta GT/E. The last special model arrived in 1975, shortly before the debut of the Opel Manta B. GT/E-based “Black Magic” was all black with orange stripes on its flanks.

Opel Manta GT/E Black Magic

Sequel followed just five years after the premiere

Already in 1975, the next Opel Manta made its debut with the B version. German brand had two variants in the range: the coupé with notchback and the 1978 Combi-Coupé CC with hatchback and large tailgate. Its long-lasting popularity ensures that the Opel Manta B has a special role in the company's 120-year-plus automotive history. No other model remained unchanged on the market longer than the Opel Manta B – presented in autumn 1975, second generation Opel Manta rolled 557,940 times off the assembly line until 1988.

Opel Manta B

As with its predecessors, Opel Manta B shared the platform, suspension and powertrain with the Ascona. Range of four-cylinder engines included 14 versions with displacements between 1.2 and 2.4 litres over the entire production period. Power outputs were between 55 and 144hp.

George Gallion with Opel Manta GT/E

New models and engines constantly complemented and extended the series and kept it young. Well-known abbreviations and affixes included SR, Berlinetta, GT, GT/J and GT/E. In 1979, newly developed OHC (overhead camshaft) engines replaced some of the older ones with side camshafts. Top GT/E developed 105 and 110hp with the larger 2.0-litre engine and was renamed GSi in 1984.

Rarest and most powerful Opel Manta B was the 400, presented at the Geneva Motor Show in 1981. Opel Manta 400, which got its name from the 400 units needed for group 4 motor sport homologation, featured a 2.4-litre DOHC four-cylinder engine (double overhead camshafts) with four-valve technology and 144 hp. With Opel Manta 400, Guy Colsoul and Alain Lopes won the two-wheel drive class of the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally, finishing fourth overall behind three four-wheel drive vehicles.

Opel Manta 400 at the Paris-Dakar Rally (1984)

Last two versions of the Opel Manta B were the GSi top model and the GSi Exclusiv produced in small numbers by the tuner Irmscher. In total, more than one million examples of the Manta A and B rolled off the assembly line. A big fish indeed.

Opel Manta B GSi

!NEW! Buick Introduces All-New LaCrosse in China

Adds new styling, comfort, safety and connectivity

All-New Buick LaCrosse was launched in Guangzhou.

SAIC-GM introduced all-new Buick LaCrosse in China. The LaCrosse is available in six trims, with an option of a 1.5T or a 2.0T engine – and is priced between RMB 225,800 and RMB 339,800.

The Buick sedan has built an image based on comfort, quietness and quality, as well as attention to safety. The all-new LaCrosse builds on a strong global heritage, with more than 950,000 worldwide sales since 2009.

“The all-new LaCrosse incorporates innovations in design and technology, signaling Buick’s future vision in these important areas. It ushers in an exciting new era for the brand in China – its largest market,” said SAIC-GM President Wang Yongqing.

Trend-setting exterior

All-New Buick LaCrosse

The all-new LaCrosse is the first production vehicle to adopt the next evolution of Buick design. Inspired by the award-winning Avenir concept, it maintains the distinguishable features associated with the LaCrosse nameplate.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Tri-shield insignia, waterfall grille 

Its new wing-shaped chrome front grille with a large opening distinguished by the return of a three-color – red, silver and blue – Buick tri-shield insignia, is accented by wing-shaped elements set against darkened waterfall grille bars inspired by the 1954 Wildcat II concept. It is complemented by LED headlamps and taillamps.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - LED headlamps

All-New Buick LaCrosse - LED taillamps and ducktail spoiler

The traditional Buick sweep-spear bodyside seamlessly connects with the ducktail spoiler, enhancing the profile and contributing to the sedan’s dynamic stance.

Spacious and stylish interior

All-New Buick LaCrosse -  Stylish interior

The cockpit has a horizontal form that sweeps across the instrument panel and into the doors. Together with its 2,905 mm wheelbase, this creates more space for the driver and passengers. It also supports 29 flexible storage spaces and a large trunk with room for four suitcases.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Flexible storage spaces

In addition, it incorporates a “floating” center console that positions the controller for the new Electronic Precision Shift high and close to the driver, while creating storage space below the console for items such as a handbag or tablet.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Electronic Precision Shift

It features the brand’s Contemporary Moon White ambient lighting system for a quiet and relaxing environment. Attention to detail includes soft materials for practically every touchpoint; French stitching on the seats, instrument panel and more; and aluminum sill plates and wood decorative trim – depending on the model.

Engineers leveraged local consumer data insights to finesse seating development to meet the needs of Chinese customers. For the first time, Buick LaCrosse comes with heated/cooling rear seats that include the massage feature. The seats adjust automatically.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Heated / Cooled rear seats with the massage feature

The all-new Buick LaCrosse has a quiet and refined interior. Thanks to its flowing bodyline and active grille shutters, which open and close automatically to control airflow, the car has a drag coefficient of 0.29 that minimizes wind noise and helps improve fuel efficiency. In addition, it incorporates noise-damping features such as upgraded QuietTuning, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Liquid Applied Sound Deadening (LASD) materials.

Latest-generation powertrains

Customers have a choice of two of GM’s latest-generation powertrain combinations. They incorporate stop/start technology and the brake energy recovery system for even better fuel efficiency. In addition, the all-new LaCrosse is the first model to adopt Electronic Transmission Range Selection (ETRS) with paddle shifters, which assist with responsiveness and durability, while also saving space and improving drivability.

Buick 2.0T SIDI engine

The all-new Buick LaCrosse 28T has a high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine, a Ward's 10 Best Engine. Combined with an all-new six-speed DSS intelligent transmission, the engine produces maximum output of 192 kW at 5,400 rpm and peak torque of 350 Nm at 2,000-5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in only 7.4 seconds.

Buick 1.5T SIDI engine 

The all-new Buick LaCrosse 20T comes with an efficient 1.5T SIDI engine that produces maximum output of 125 kW at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 252 Nm at 2,000-4,000 rpm. Mated to a seven-speed DCG intelligent dual-clutch transmission, the engine consumes only 6.2 liters of fuel per 100 km, making the sedan eligible for the Chinese government’s 50 percent purchase tax cut for vehicles with small-displacement engines. 

Comprehensively upgraded chassis

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Upgraded chassis

Another highlight of the all-new Buick LaCrosse is its comprehensively upgraded chassis. Its optimized MacPherson front suspension has a class-leading decoupled three-link upper suspension structure and a redesigned eight-point full-length sub-frame. The multi-link independent rear suspension has seven sets of bushes and rear suspension stabilizer bars to support a smooth ride.

Its second-generation CDC active suspension comes with hardware and software updates as well. This allows for improved maneuverability and comfort with the help of the specially tuned sport mode, high-performance anti-noise tires, redesigned Electric Power Steering (EPS) and GM-Exclusive Ferritic Nitro-Carburizing (FNC) technology that also expands the life of brake rotors.  

With 41 percent of its body made from ultra-high-strength steel, the all-new Buick LaCrosse is 200 kg lighter than its predecessor. However, it maintains the previous generation’s optimized safety and stability to exceed the highest five-star safety rating standards.

Adding to the safety are the Bosch ESP 9.1 electronic stability system with 21 expandable functions, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) and dual-stage pre-crash seatbelts with dynamic spring bolts. The top-of-the-line trim level adds 10 airbags.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Pedestrian Detection

Five new functions – Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Following Distance Indicator, High Beam Alert and Advance Park Assist – have been added to the previous-generation LaCrosse’s seven intelligent safety functions to further enhance protection.

Trend-setting intelligent technology

All-New Buick LaCrosse - User friendly HMI

The all-new Buick LaCrosse employs a range of user-friendly human-machine interactive technologies along with eight in-car data lines. Buick’s upgraded IntelliLink infotainment system is complemented by the new-generation OnStar full-time online assistant, which can now be connected with 4G LTE through an original built-in integrated system.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - IntelliLink infotainment system

The user-friendly operating system provides a stable Wi-Fi hotspot with a stronger signal than ordinary smartphones. Up to seven mobile devices can be connected simultaneously. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Baidu CarLife.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Full-color Head-Up Display (HUD)

Adding to the comfort and convenience for the driver and passengers are a full-color head-up display (HUD) and Bose Centerpoint surround sound system that has been adapted for the all-new Buick LaCrosse.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Bose Centerpoint surround sound system

It also comes with remote engine start, keyless entry and keyless start, a high-resolution 8-inch frameless flat touch screen, four USB ports, Bluetooth hands-free calling and the Air Quality System (AQS) with a highly efficient PM2.5 filter.

!NEW! All-New Buick Excelle GT Launched

Will strengthen Buick’s leadership in China’s mid-range sedan segment

The all-new Buick Excelle GT was launched today by Shanghai GM.

The all-new Buick Excelle GT was launched today in Sanya, Hainan, by Shanghai GM. The all-new Excelle GT has a dynamic exterior design, spacious interior and advanced level of safety. It is equipped with Buick’s new-generation 1.4T DVVT and 1.5L DVVT in-line four-cylinder powertrains. Nine variants of the sedan are available for between RMB 109,900 and RMB 159,900.

All-new Buick Excelle GT, which is priced between RMB 109,900 and RMB 159,900.

“Buick has leveraged its global resources to create a car to please progressive, trendsetting consumers,” said Shanghai GM President Wang Yongqing. “The all-new Excelle GT is leading Buick's new mid-range sedan strategy to strengthen the brand's leadership in the important market segment.”

Dynamic and Sleek Design

The appearance of the all-new Excelle GT embodies the essence of the Buick Riviera II concept car and Buick’s “dynamic and sleek” brand design language. Buick’s iconic waterfall grille is complemented by a sculpted profile with a curved line that runs from front to back.

All-new Buick Excelle GT: Moonlight Silver color

The model’s wing-shaped headlights and taillights provide a sense of sportiness and movement, as do the 16-inch aluminum wheels. The all-new Excelle GT is available in six exterior colors: Snow White, Deep Blue, Chinese Red, Pearl Black, Moonlight Silver and Topaz Brown.

All-new Buick Excelle GT: Snow White color

Spacious and Comfortable Ride

Drivers will enjoy the sedan’s segment-leading interior space, thanks to its short front and rear overhangs as well as its efficient ergonomic design. The interior offers significantly more head and knee room than its predecessor.

The cabin has adopted Buick’s iconic 360-degree wraparound design layout, with exquisite workmanship and premium materials. The standard three-spoke multifunctional steering wheel and 19 user-friendly storage areas address users’ practical needs.

All-new Buick Excelle GT: 360-degree wraparound design layout.

The all-new Excelle GT has an enhanced MacPherson front suspension and independent rear suspension, which work in conjunction with its electric power steering (EPS) and low rolling resistance tires to enhance comfort and handling.

It also comes with rear-seat air vents, a nanometer-grade PM2.5 air filter and a seven-inch HD touch screen. For the first time, the model provides voice recognition. Using voice commands, the driver can control the infotainment system and functions such as air conditioning, make calls and listen to messages.

Fuel-Efficient and Smooth Powertrains

The all-new Excelle GT comes with a choice of powertrains that include the start/stop feature as standard. They offer strong yet smooth output and segment-leading fuel economy.

The 18T powertrain pairs a 1.4T DVVT in-line four-cylinder engine with GM’s latest intelligent seven-speed DCG transmission. The powertrain delivers maximum power of 106 kW at 4,900-6,000 rpm, peak torque of 200 Nm at 1,700-4,800 rpm and comprehensive fuel economy of 5.9 L/100 km.

The 15N powertrain pairs a 1.5L DVVT in-line four-cylinder engine with a new intelligent six-speed DSS transmission. It produces maximum power of 84 kW at 6,000 rpm, peak torque of 143 Nm at 4,400 rpm and comprehensive fuel economy of 6.1 L/100 km.

Advanced Safety and Occupant Protection

The all-new Excelle GT is based on GM’s body-frame integral body structure, which is made of over 65 percent high-strength steel. A number of key parts are also made of hot-formed high-strength steel, which combined with the use of high-strength structural adhesive provides a rigid vehicle body without sacrificing fuel economy.

The vehicle comes with Bosch’s Electronic Stability Control 9.1 safety system. Hill Start Assist, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System and LED daytime running lights are among the other standard safety amenities in the all-new Excelle GT.

The all-new Excelle GT is produced at Shanghai GM’s new plant in Wuhan, which adopted world-class manufacturing processes and technologies. They include the world’s most advanced touchless 3-D laser testing technology and machinery that helps ensure a seamless body structure and exceptional chassis performance.

More than 900,000 units of the Excelle GT and XT have been sold since their launch in 2010.

!NEW! Shanghai GM Reveals All-New Buick Excelle GT

Mainstream mid-range sedan has new design, interior and powertrains

The all-new Buick Excelle GT exterior

Shanghai GM has revealed photos of the exterior and interior of the all-new Buick Excelle GT in advance of its upcoming domestic launch. It will strengthen the presence of Buick – Shanghai GM’s most popular brand – in China’s mid-range mainstream sedan segment.

The all-new Excelle GT reflects Buick's efficiency-oriented philosophy that caters to the preferences of local consumers. Inspired by the Buick Riviera II concept car, the all-new Excelle GT carries forward Buick's "dynamic and sleek" design language, with styling that projects an image of simplicity and sportiness.

The sedan’s interior boasts Buick's iconic 360-degree wraparound cabin layout, with exquisitely crafted and high-quality materials. It offers significantly more head and knee room than its predecessor, segment-leading room in back courtesy of short front and rear overhangs, and an ergonomic design.

The all-new Buick Excelle GT interior

Two new-generation 18T and 15N powertrain combinations will be offered. The 18T includes a 1.4T DVVT engine and an intelligent seven-speed DCG transmission, while the 15N offers a 1.5L DVVT in-line four-cylinder engine and a new six-speed DSS transmission. Both provide strong, seamless power output and segment-leading fuel economy thanks to the standard start/stop feature.

The all-new Excelle GT’s independent rear suspension ensures agile handling. Its lightweight body consists of over 65 percent high-strength steel. It comes standard with Bosch's latest ESC 9.1 system, ensuring maximum protection for occupants.

The model is also packed with segment-leading and exclusive user-friendly technology such as rear-seat air vents, LED daytime running lights and a nanometer-grade PM2.5 air filter.

The all-new Buick Excelle GT will be manufactured at Shanghai GM's new plant in Wuhan, which has adopted world-class manufacturing processes and technologies.