Showing posts with label Brussels Motor Show. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brussels Motor Show. Show all posts

Friday, 9 January 2026

New Opel Astra Celebrates World Premiere at Brussels Motor Show

  • Stunning debut: Opel CEO Florian Huettl and Opel Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann present the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer
  • Sharper, more modern, further: New Astra with illuminated Opel Blitz and Opel Compass, Intelli-Lux HD light and up to 454 km electric range 
  • Top seller: Opel Corsa Germany's most popular small car for the fifth year in a row
  • Wide range: Opel Mokka GSE, Grandland Electric AWD, Frontera Electric and high-performance study Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo on display in Hall 5

Opel CEO Florian Huettl opened today's Opel press conference at the Brussels Motor Show with a brief look back before eying a successful new year for the brand with the Blitz. "2025 was a great year for Opel with numerous highlights and 2026 will be even more exciting," said Huettl. And he kept his word: Together with Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann, he unveiled the new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer. The latest evolution of the compact class bestseller from Rüsselsheim is celebrating its world premiere at the first automotive exhibition of the year – sharper, more modern and more radiant than ever.

In addition, Huettl had more good news: The bestselling Opel Corsa once again topped the registration statistics in Germany in 2025, and with the renewed trio of Grandland, Frontera and Mokka, Opel is well positioned in the SUV segment. However, the undisputed star at the Opel booth in Hall 5 of the Brussels Expo today and until January 18 is the new Opel Astra.

Segment leading: New Opel Astra with Intelli-Lux HD light and illuminated Opel Blitz

"The new Astra marks the next step in our 90-year history of the compact class and once again brings innovative features to the segment," said Florian Huettl at the presentation. One of them is the class-leading Intelli-Lux HD light, which was developed by the engineers in Rüsselsheim and is now also used in the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer. More than 50,000 elements in the headlights ensure that "the road, traffic signs, obstacles and pedestrians are all lit up with breathtaking precision without dazzling other drivers," said Rebecca Reinermann. Light is also the decisive element when it comes to the character of the brand face. This is how the Opel Vizor has been further developed: The Opel Blitz and the Opel Compass signature are both permanently illuminated for the first time.


"Light instead of external chrome elements – which the Astra does not use at all – is an important step on our sustainability journey," continued Reinermann. This approach also extends to the interior design. All seats are made from 100 per cent recycled materials. Drivers and passengers can therefore enjoy both a resource-saving and comfortable drive. Because even from the entry-level variant, the patented Intelli-Seats with ergonomic recess in the middle come as standard.

Another customer benefit: "We offer a wide range of drive alternatives for the new Astra, from the efficient combustion engine to the 48-volt hybrid and plug-in hybrid to the all-electric version – which now offers even more range than before with up to 454 kilometres in accordance with WLTP 1," said Reinermann.


Customer successes: New SUV portfolio and hugely popular Opel Corsa

Opel CEO Huettl confirmed how well the all-electric new Opel models are received by customers: "Around one out of three Grandland and Frontera ordered is battery electric." This also contributes to the growing order intake at Opel in recent months.

In addition to the new Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, numerous other electric models are on show at the Opel booth in Hall 5. These include the currently fastest battery-electric production Opel and 2025 Golden Steering Wheel 3 winner the Mokka GSE just like the first all-electric Opel all-wheel-drive vehicle Grandland Electric AWD and the Extended Range variant of the Frontera Electric.

Once again, the high-performance Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept car that merges the digital with the real world and at the same time underlines Opel's commitment to the important small car segment will turn heads. According to the latest registration statistics from the Federal Motor Transport Authority, the current Corsa – also on site in Brussels – has now been Germany's best-selling small car for five years in a row. In addition, it was once again the most popular small car in the UK in 2025.

[1] The stated – provisional – range was determined on the basis of the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning as well as thermal preconditioning. Vehicle not yet available; Consumption data and information are not yet available.

[2] The values of a vehicle depend not only on the efficient use of fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behaviour and other non-technical factors.

[3] AUTO BILD issue 47/2025 and BILD am SONNTAG issue 47/2025, category ‘Small Cars’.

Friday, 13 January 2023

100% Electrified: Opel CEO Florian Huettl Presents Four World Premieres at Brussels Motor Show

  • New Astra Electric: Opel's compact class bestseller makes its all-electric debut
  • First appearance: Top-of-the-line Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe and Grandland GSe
  • Extended range: Opel Mokka Electric now with a range of 406 kilometres (WLTP 1)

Opel GSe range

100th Brussels Motor Show opened its doors today with pioneering models, concepts and drive solutions on display until January 22nd. Opel is present at the first major motor show on the annual calendar – with four future-proof world premieres: The new Opel Astra Electric is making its public debut, as are the two new top models, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe and the Opel Grandland GSe. In addition, the Mokka Electric is on show for the first time with a new battery and 20 percent more range than before. Overall, the brand with Blitz in Brussels is showing a 100 percent electrified line-up – either battery-electric or with plug-in hybrid drive – in the Belgian capital. This also applies to the Opel Combo-e and Opel Vivaro-e commercial vehicles, which visitors can also take a close look at on site.

Opel CEO Florian Huettl 

“New Opel Astra Electric will electrify the audience. First battery-electric Astra shows that Opel is consistently pursuing its path towards becoming a fully electric brand in Europe. At the same time, we already offer the right drive alternative for all requirements and preferences in the important compact class - from highly efficient combustion engines to the particularly sporty plug-in hybrid Astra GSe to the fully electric, locally emission-free Astra Electric,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl at the opening of the Brussels Motor Show.

Electrified top models: Opel Astra Electric, Astra Sports Tourer GSe, Grandland GSe

Opel Astra Electric
Electromobility is future mobility – suitable for everyday use, emotional and locally emission-free. All of this is offered by the Opel models, which visitors to the joint Stellantis stand 5101 in Hall 5 can get up close to from today. With first all-electric variant of “Golden Steering Wheel 20222” winner,  new Opel Astra Electric, customers can cover up to 416 kilometres in accordance with WLTP 1 locally emission-free thanks to its 54 kWh lithium-ion battery. And when it needs recharging, the battery-electric Astra can be charged to 80 percent of the battery capacity at a 100 kW direct current fast charging station in around 30 minutes. At the same time, Opel Astra Electric offers plenty of driving pleasure. Electric motor with 115 kW/156 hp and powerful 270 Nm of torque ensures brisk starts at traffic lights and a top speed of up to 170 km/h.

Opel Astra GSe: Hybrid propulsion system

New GSe sub-brand also stands for pure driving pleasure. Two of top-of-the-line 'Grand Sport electric' models can be seen in Brussels: Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe and Opel Grandland GSe. Compared to their siblings, the GSe models are designed to be even more agile and precise. Steering, suspension and brakes respond more immediately and directly to any command from the driver. Depending on the situation, KONI FSD technology enables different damping characteristics for precise handling and high comfort in equal measure. Performance data speaks for itself: With a system output of 165 kW/225 hp and a maximum torque of a powerful 360 Nm, both new Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe and the five-door Opel Astra GSe deliver an exciting experience (fuel consumption according to WLTP 3: 1.2- 1.1 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 26-25 g/km; each combined). 

 Opel Grandland Gse: Hybrid propulsion system

Elsewhere, Opel Grandland GSe bundles the power of a turbo petrol engine with a displacement of 1.6 litres and two electric motors - one on each axle. It offers a system output of up to 221 kW/300 hp (fuel consumption according to WLTP 3: 1.2 l/100 km, CO2 emissions 28-27 g/km; each combined, weighted) and an extremely strong 520 Nm of maximum torque. Plug-in hybrid drive makes the Grandland GSe an exciting performance SUV with permanent electric all-wheel drive and excellent traction and ensures best-in-class acceleration from a standing start. Opel Grandland GSe sprints from zero to 100 km/h in just 6.1 seconds and delivers a top speed of 235 km/h (135 km/h purely electric).

Stronger, further - and locally emission-free: Opel Mokka Electric

Opel Mokka Electric is more than ever the right choice for everyone who prefers to drive in a sub-compact SUV that is as individual as it is locally emission-free. Because the "Winner of the Golden Steering Wheel 2021"4 will be available with a larger battery if desired. Aerodynamically fine-tuned and with the new 54 kWh battery on board, Opel Mokka Electric can cover up to 406 kilometres instead of up to 338 kilometres locally emission-free according to WLTP 1 - a whopping 20 percent more than before. In addition, a more powerful electric motor provides more power, now with 115 kW/156 hp and 260 Nm of torque.

Opel Mokka Electric

Battery-electric models from other vehicle classes round off Opel's "electrifying appearance" in Brussels - from best-selling small car Opel Corsa-e and compact van Opel Combo-e to the commercial vehicle all-rounder and "International Van of the Year 2021" Vivaro- e. By the way, the path to owning a new electric vehicle is very easy: spontaneous trade fair visitors can order their desired model with the ‘Blitz’ directly at the stand. In the "Mobility Corner" manufacturer from Rüsselsheim presents its online sales tool. Here, Opel customers can configure their vehicle, inspect it digitally and, if they wish, have it delivered to their home.

Opel Vivaro-e

[1] Preliminary range determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology (R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1151). 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. Vehicle not available yet.

[2] AUTO BILD edition 45/2022 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2022, category for “Best car up to €50,000”.

[3] Preliminary values determined using more realistic WLTP (Worldwide harmonized Light vehicles Test Procedure) test method which replaces the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) test procedure. A vehicle's consumption, CO2 emissions and range not only depend on the efficient use of energy by the vehicle but are also influenced by driving style and other non-technical factors. The information on consumption and emissions does not refer to an individual vehicle and is intended solely for purposes of comparison between the various vehicle types. Opel Astra Sports Tourer GSe not available yet.

[4] AUTO BILD edition 45/2021 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2021, category for “Best car under €25,000” incl. environmental bonus.

Wednesday, 4 December 2019

New Opel Insignia Shines with Next-Gen IntelliLux LED Pixel Light

  • Sharper looks: Grand Sport and Sports Tourer with more dynamic appearance
  • Brightest: Next-generation IntelliLux LED light with 168 LED elements
  • High efficiency: energy-saving Full LED lights across the range
  • Safety in reverse: New digital rear view camera and rear cross traffic alert
  • Premiere January 2020: New Opel Insignia takes centre stage at Brussels Motor Show



New Opel Insignia Grand Sport and Sports Tourer with more dynamic appearance

Opel gives a first glimpse of the new Insignia. New edition of the German brand’s flagship will premiere at the Brussels Motor Show from January 10-19, 2020 and offer buyers even sharper looks as well as further improved night-time vision. Thanks to the refreshed design, the top-of-the-line-model has an even more powerful on-the-road presence. Extremely slim headlamps with pioneering LED technology make a major contribution. New adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light now features 84 LED elements per headlamp. Headlamps react faster, with more precision than ever before, providing optimum vision for Insignia drivers without glare for oncoming or preceding traffic. With the new-generation IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, Opel flagship is unique in its market segment.

New Opel Insignia Grand Sport 

New edition of the Opel Insignia is packed with advanced technologies. Grand Sport limousine and Sports Tourer estate offer for the first time a digital rear view camera. Combined with radar-based rear cross traffic alert, which warns of traffic approaching from the side, the system further increases safety. Portfolio is completed by numerous proven assistance systems such as forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection and a head-up display. Insignia drivers and passengers are well connected by the offer of excellent infotainment systems with colour touchscreens. List of options includes e-Call and wireless charging for compatible smartphones in the centre console.

New Opel Insignia will be even more efficient than before, thanks to lightweight engineering and all-new, highly efficient petrol and diesel engines. On its introduction in 2009, the first generation was elected “European Car Of The Year”. During the last ten years, almost 1.2 million units of both Insignia generations have rolled off the assembly line in Opel’s hometown of Rüsselsheim.

 Russelsheim - Opel Insignia manufacturing, final inspection 

Precise next-generation IntelliLux LED Pixel Light: 168 LED elements

New Opel Insignia will be equipped exclusively with Full LED light systems. From highly energy-efficient LED headlamps to the new adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, which features an industry-leading total of 168 LED elements, instead of the previous 32.

New Opel Insignia: IntelliLux LED Pixel Light

“With IntelliLux LED Pixel Light, we take another big step forward”, explained Christian Müller, Managing Director Engineering. “Driving at night is therefore more relaxed and safer. New headlamps react faster, imperceptibly and with higher precision to the prevailing driving conditions. Intelligent system continuously adapts the light beam, road ahead is always ideally lit. Result is optimum vision in every situation, without glare for other road users.”

New Opel Insignia: Glare-Free High Beam

Main beam is adjusted seamlessly in milliseconds by two control units – one connected to the front camera and the other in the headlamp. High number of continuously reacting LED elements results in a seamless adaptation of the light beam. Illuminated area is larger than before, approaching or preceding traffic is “cut out” more precisely.

New Opel Insignia: Country Light
Range and direction of the light vary according to the driving situation and surroundings. The light functions range from curve and bad weather, to town, country roads and autobahn, as well as optimised light for parking. In particular, Opel has further improved the autobahn light of the newest IntelliLux LED. In left turns, the light beam reaches further to the left, so that the driver can more easily see roadside signs. When turning right in autobahn mode, the light beam shines further to the right, in order to avoid glare for oncoming traffic.

Power of the new IntelliLux LED Pixel Light system has been significantly increased. 84 LED elements are arranged in three rows in each ultra-slim headlamp, along with the curve light and dip beam module, as well as the characteristic LED daylight running lamp underneath.

Bold, pure, elegant: attractive new front and rear design

“New Insignia continues to build upon our Bold and Pure design execution”, said Opel’s Design Vice President, Mark Adams. “New front end emphasizes Insignia’s elegant and sporty character by proportionally making everything feel lower, wider and executed with clear German attention to detail.”



New chrome-edged radiator grille is wider and features prominent slats; the Opel logo in the middle of the chrome bar seems larger. Chrome bar itself stretches right and left to the LED daylight running lamps, which are now located at the bottom instead of the top of each headlamp. Opel Insignia appears lower and wider, also thanks to the air inlets with integrated fog lamps.


Rear of the Opel Insignia Grand Sport and Sports Tourer is also defined by clear lines. As already on the estate, the valence panel of the Grand Sport limousine will also feature two slots instead of round holes for the exhaust pipes.

Slim, horizontal lines of the design continue in the interior. Precisely placed chrome accents underline the stylish ambience.

Full range: new rear view camera, rear cross traffic alert and more

Typically for a flagship, the Opel Insignia will feature a full range of assistance and infotainment systems. A new digital rear view camera improves rearward vision. Safety when reversing out of parking spaces can be further increased by the optional rear cross traffic alert. System uses radar sensors to detect objects 90 degrees to the left and right behind the Insignia, at distances of up to 20 metres. Driver is warned via the display and acoustic signals. 



Additional assistance systems include:

  • Forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian detection
  • Lane keep assist
  • Side blind spot alert
  • Adaptive cruise control with emergency braking
  • Traffic sign recognition
  • Advanced park assist
  • Head-up display, keeping the driver’s eyes on the road.

Portfolio of infotainment systems compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto will extend from Multimedia Radio and Multimedia Navi to Multimedia Navi Pro. Top-of-the-line unit features numerous Connected Navigation services. With real-time traffic information, online map updates and predictive navigation, journeys are more relaxing. New symbols give the navigation display a fresher, more modern appearance. Same goes for the instruments. When e-Call is installed, an emergency call is automatically sent if the seatbelt tensioners or airbags are deployed. Alternatively, help can be actively summoned in seconds by simply pressing the red button.

New Opel Insignia will offer high comfort. Ergonomically certified AGR seats are optionally available for driver and front passenger. Compatible smartphones can be charged wirelessly. Tailgate of the Sports Tourer can be opened and closed automatically by a movement of the foot under the sensors in the rear bumper.

Saturday, 19 January 2019

Opel Zafira Life Celebrates World Premiere at Brussels Show


  • Press conference held by head of Opel sales and marketing, Xavier Duchemin
  • World premiere of new Zafira Life continues Opel’s model offensive
  • Opel GT X Experimental future concept makes public debut
  • Opel’s 120th year of automotive production and democratization of mobility begins
  • PACE! plan works, Opel goes electric and global, returning to sustainable profitability

Managing Director Sales, Aftersales and Marketing Xavier Duchemin with New Opel Zafira Life


Opel plays a starring role at this year’s Brussels Motor Show, with a major world premiere. The new Opel Zafira Life was revealed today by Managing Director Sales, Aftersales and Marketing, Xavier Duchemin, during the press conference on the Opel stand 09-10 in hall 4. “Attractive as well as practical, the new Zafira Life makes travelling much more enjoyable, comfortable and adaptable, for drivers and passengers”, said Duchemin.



The public debut of the Opel GT X Experimental is another major attraction in Brussels. The concept represents the future of Opel and shows what customers can expect from the brand in future. Duchemin referred to the PACE! strategic plan to show Opel is electrifying its model range and investing in growing market segments, thus becoming a sustainably profitable and global brand.

New Opel Zafira Life: Practical and versatile van for up to nine occupants

“Brussels is the first European motor show of 2019 and therefore the perfect opportunity for Opel to celebrate the first of several product premieres this year,” said Opel’s head of sales and marketing. The model making its world premiere in Brussels is just right for Opel’s anniversary year. The German carmaker has been producing practical vehicles with innovative technology for everyone for 120 years. These are exactly the qualities displayed by the new Opel Zafira Life. The Opel Zafira Life is a fun-to-drive as well as comfortable multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that the German carmaker will offer in three lengths, tailor-made to customer requirements: the 4.60 metre “Small”, the 4.95m “Medium” and the 5.30m “Large” – each of which comes with up to nine seats. “The Zafira Life meets all demands,” said Duchemin, “from the versatile interiors and high comfort, to state-of-the-art infotainment and intelligent driver assistance systems.” A Zafira Life 4x4 will also be available to order from the start of sales. Opel will offer a purely electric version in early 2021, another milestone on the journey to electrifying the brand.

GT X Experimental: Opel’s vision of the future

Presenting the Opel GT X Experimental - a compact, electric SUV full of innovative ideas - for the first time in public, Duchemin said, “Opel has offered innovation, high-tech and mobility for all for 120 years. This ambition is stronger than ever today and nothing demonstrates it better than the car up here on the stage with me – the Opel GT X Experimental.”

Managing Director Sales, Aftersales and Marketing Xavier Duchemin with Opel GT X Experimental

The GT X Experimental shows how Opel sees mobility of the future: electric, and fully connected. The concept, which is making its first public appearance at the Brussels show, also gives a preview of the future for Opel as the exciting, approachable, German brand.



The signature design cues – such as the “Opel Vizor” front fascia and the “Opel Compass” – will become the hallmark of Opel cars in the mid-2020s. “The GT X Experimental embodies the vision of our brand defined in PACE!” said Duchemin.

120 years of Opel automobile production, targeting sustainable success with PACE!

But PACE! is not only a roadmap to the future, it is also a plan for the present, said Duchemin. As examples he named the new Opel Combo Cargo, which has been voted International Van Of The Year 2019, and the Opel Combo Life passenger car, which was named “AUTOBEST Best-buy-car of Europe 2019”! “Since the start of sales last September, we have already taken more than 36,000 orders for the new Opel Combo, more than all the registrations of the previous model in Europe in whole 2017. We have received almost 200,000 orders for the new Opel Insignia and the Grandland X and well over 130,000 for the Crossland X”, added Duchemin.

A key role in this success is played by Rüsselsheim R&D centre, which has taken over responsibility for the development of a new generation of large vans as well as a new engine family and 15 competence centres for the entire Groupe PSA.

Opel is therefore set for a strong performance in its 2019 anniversary year, as well as successful implementation of its ongoing product offensive. In addition to the new Opel Vivaro and the Grandland X plug-in hybrid, an important role is played here by the next-generation Corsa. “The new Corsa will also be available as a fully battery electric vehicle”, said Duchemin. “The Corsa will offer electro-mobility to more customers than ever before and make a significant contribution to Opel becoming a fully electrified brand by 2024.”

The Opel product portfolio is additionally complemented by “120 Years” model variants. These special editions of the Opel ADAM, KARL, Corsa, Astra, Insignia, Zafira, Crossland X, Mokka X and Grandland X offer a wealth of high-tech equipment as well as design and comfort features.

Friday, 11 January 2019

New Opel Zafira Life: The Benchmark Enters its Fourth Generation

  • Opel’s next generation multi-purpose passenger car
  • One model, three sizes, each with up to nine seats
  • Bold design and balanced proportions
  • Lounge comfort with movable leather seats and panorama roof
  • Sliding doors open electrically in seconds via foot-movement
  • World premiere at Brussels Motor Show on January 18, 2019, for order in February
  • Opel Zafira Life all-electric version follows in 2021

New Opel Zafira Life


Attractive, flexible and practical vans are named Zafira. Twenty years after the success began with the first generation, the story is now continuing with a newly developed fourth-generation model. The Opel Zafira Life is a fun-to-drive as well as comfortable multi-purpose vehicle (MPV) that the German carmaker will offer in three lengths, tailor-made to customer requirements: the 4.60 metre “Small”, the 4.95 m “Medium” and the 5.30 m “Large” – each of which comes with up to nine seats. The “S” version of the Zafira Life is about ten centimetres shorter than the current Zafira, while the “L” is around 65 cm longer and therefore nearly as big as the Opel Vivaro Combi passenger van. Opel Zafira Life thus covers up to three vehicle segments and represents a new benchmark among multi-seat MPVs.



Opel Zafira Life meets all demands – from the versatile interiors, high comfort and sophisticated driver assistance systems, to state-of-the-art infotainment, head-up display, camera and radar-based active cruise control. The advanced technology is paired with a bold look, balanced proportions, short overhangs and the typical Opel fascia. Driver and passengers benefit from a two-piece panorama roof and an opening window in the tailgate. The Opel Zafira Life will make its world premiere at the Brussels Motor Show on January 18, 2019 (public days January 19-27, 2019). The order books will open in February.


For the best traction on loose surfaces, the Zafira Life is equipped with the advanced IntelliGrip traction control. A 4x4 version will also be available to order from the start of sales. The all-wheel drive system is supplied by the off-road specialists at Dangel. Opel will offer a purely electric version in early 2021, another milestone on the journey to electrifying the brand.

“With the new Zafira Life, Opel continues to implement the PACE! strategic plan”, says Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller. “By the end of 2020 we will bring eight all-new or refreshed models onto the market – including the next generation of the bestselling Corsa. We will already open the order books for two electrified models in the first half of 2019: for the all-electric version of the Corsa, which will become a real electric car for everyone, and the Grandland X as a plug-in hybrid. Opel is going electric.”



The company is investing above all in profitable, growing market segments with high volumes. Opel will soon have one of the youngest product portfolios of all volume manufacturers.

One model, three sizes: Opel Zafira Life for every purpose



Opel Zafira Life “Small” competes with compact vans but offers considerably more room and space for up to nine occupants – unrivalled in this class. It also features a small turning circle (11.3 m), good handling and two sensor-controlled sliding doors that open electrically with a movement of the foot, similar to the tailgates of the Astra Sports Tourer and Insignia Sports Tourer – also unique in this market segment. Opel Zafira Life “Medium” (likewise the Opel Zafira Life “L”) has a 35 cm longer, 3.28 m wheelbase and thus more legroom for the rear passengers, which makes it a competitor of midsize vans in the D market segment. Compared with the competition, the Opel also features a larger tailgate and easier access for loading/unloading, plus a higher payload of more than one tonne. Opel Zafira Life “Large”, with a luggage capacity of around 4,500 litres, is a rival for even bigger vans.


Stylish, highly equipped shuttles are in great demand in this market segment. Opel therefore offers leather seats on aluminium rails that allow full and easy adjustment for all versions of the Zafira Life. Five, six, seven or eight leather-seat configurations are available. The folding back of the front passenger seat allows the transportation of objects up to 3.50 m in length. Folding the third row seats increases the luggage capacity of the Zafira Life “S” to 1,500 litres (to roof level). The removal of the rear seats (which are equally easy to reinstall) raises the total cargo capacity to as much as 3,397 litres.



Luxurious “Lounge” trim is available for the long wheelbase versions – in front, seats with massage and electric heating, four movable leather chairs behind, each with a 48 cm wide seat cushion. VIP passengers can thus also sit facing each other and enjoy the legroom. The movable table also folds away to provide additional storage space for small objects. Passengers can charge their mobile devices using the 230 V plug socket.



Most versions of the Opel Zafira Life are less than 1.90 m high and can therefore access typical underground garages – important for use as hotel shuttle.

Under control: Head-Up Display, front collision warning and rear view camera

The new Opel MPV features numerous driver assistance systems. A camera and radar monitor the area in front of the vehicle. The system even recognises pedestrians crossing the road and can initiate an emergency braking manoeuver at speeds up to 30 km/h. The intelligent cruise control adjusts the speed to that of the vehicle in front, automatically decelerates and can reduce the speed to 20 km/h if necessary. Lane-keep assist and drowsiness alert warn drivers if they have spent too much time at the wheel and need a break. High-beam assist, which automatically switches to high or low beam, is activated above 25 km/h. Also unique in this market segment is the colour head-up display that shows speed, distance to the preceding vehicle and navigation.



During the course of 2019, the Zafira Life will also offer the Opel Connect telematics service. Helpful functions, such as Live Navigation with real-time traffic information, direct connection with roadside assistance and emergency call, give the driver and passengers additional peace of mind. Help can be reached within seconds via the red button. If the seatbelt tensioners or the airbags are deployed, the emergency call is activated automatically.

Good all-round visibility is particularly important in larger vehicles, for example in narrow streets or when making turns in urban areas. Ultrasonic sensors in the front and rear bumpers alert the driver to obstacles of every kind when parking. The image from the rear view camera is displayed on the interior mirror or the 7.0-inch screen – the latter with 180-degree visibility from the bird’s eye view.

The large 7.0-inch touchscreen comes with Multimedia and Multimedia Navi infotainment. Both systems feature phone integration via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Multimedia Navi additionally features European navigation with 3D view. Points of interest in large towns are displayed in “Full HD” quality. As an option, the geography along the route on cross-country journeys is shown very realistically. Thanks to Opel Connect, the navigation system includes real time traffic information for the latest status on the roads. A powerful sound system is available with all trim levels. In the top-of-the-line version, passengers enjoy first class acoustics thanks to 10 loudspeakers.

Thursday, 15 January 2015

New Corsavan Celebrates World Premiere at Brussels Motor Show

  • Economical 1.3 CDTI ecoFlex engine and more payload capacity than predecessor
  • Excellent connectivity with IntelliLink Infotainment System
  • Numerous safety features thanks to close relationship with passenger car
Exciting combination: The new Opel Corsavan combines the comfort, safety features and performance of a passenger car with the transport capacity of a small van.

Following the successful launch of the new Opel Corsa at the Paris Motor Show in October of last year, the new Corsavan will make its debut at the Brussels Motor Show (January 16 to 25, 2015). The small but capable van will be on show at the Opel stand in Hall 9 of the Brussels Expo and is part of Opel’s new light commercial vehicle strategy. Based on the new three-door Corsa, the nippy city delivery van, which combines the comfort, safety features and performance of a passenger car with the transport capacity of a small van can be ordered now and will be at dealerships in the first quarter of this year.

The new Corsavan is even more practical than its predecessor, offering 21 kilograms more maximum payload. Furthermore, it also comes with numerous safety features such as the award-winning Side Blind Spot Alert or the second-generation Opel Eye front camera, with Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, Following Distance Indication and Forward Collision Warning. To top things off, the optional IntelliLink Infotainment System guarantees excellent connectivity. Compatible with Android and Apple devices it makes the Corsavan the best-connected city delivery van on the market.

“The Corsavan offers small businesses the comfort and practicality of a van combined with the most up-to-date safety and connectivity features of its passenger car sibling at an extremely attractive price,” said Steffen Raschig, Director of Opel Commercial Vehicles. Raschig expects the Corsavan to be especially popular in Portugal, Spain and the United Kingdom, where the predecessor model also enjoys great success.

Dynamic and practical

Economical advantage: The servicing intervals guarantee that the vehicles spend even more time on the road. 
From the outside, the Corsavan barely looks like a commercial vehicle at all. It shares the new Corsa’s dynamic appearance and fits easily into tight parking spaces thanks to its compact dimensions (4021 mm long, 1944 mm wide including exterior mirrors and 1479 mm high, turning circle 9.9 meters) and speed sensitive power steering. Its spacious and modern interior offers generous leg and headroom. The ergonomic design puts every switch and control within easy reach. The cabin feels more like an office and allows owners/drivers to get some paperwork done between appointments. Contoured, supportive seats provide ample comfort throughout the day.

More payload: New Opel Corsavan’s large, flat loading area provides a capacity of 920 liters with a maximum payload of 571 kilograms.
The compact proportions in no way detract from the agile city van’s great transport capacity. The Corsavan’s large, flat loading area provides a capacity of 920 liters with a maximum payload of 571 kilograms. Standard features such as a solid steel floor and half-height steel bulkhead along with half-height sidewall paneling and load restraint lashing eyes all serve to protect and stabilize cargo. Additionally, upper load restraint mesh, fitted rubber floor mat and four-piece load compartment cover are optional for even more load protection.

New Opel Corsavan: Safe transportation: Load restraint lashing eyes serve to protect and stabilize cargo.

Economical and lively

The engine lineup consists of 1.4 liter gasoline engines and 1.3 liter diesel aggregates with outputs ranging from 70 to 95 hp. The 1.3 CDTI ecoFlex engine with 95 hp is the pick of the diesel aggregates and has undergone comprehensive redevelopment for use in the new Corsavan. It delivers 190 Nm torque, comes with Start/Stop as standard and is Euro-6 compliant. While delivering a lively drive it also keeps fuel consumption at an outstanding 3.3 liters per 100 kilometers for the combined cycle, with CO2 emissions down to an impressive 88 grams per kilometer.

The servicing intervals also represent an economical advantage. Main services intervals have been set to every two years or 60.000 km (whatever comes first) with an interim service interval of every 30.000 km or yearly. This guarantees that the vehicles spend even more time representing the client on the road.

Outstanding connectivity

Elsewhere, the optional IntelliLink infotainment system’s 7-inch color touchscreen is located on the center stack. Opel’s award-winning infotainment system offers optimum connectivity opportunities. It is compatible with Apple and Android devices and makes the Corsavan the best-connected small van on the market. The driver can use apps like BringGo for navigation as well as Stitcher and TuneIn for worldwide radio and podcast reception. With IntelliLink, a driver can plan his entire day without having to return to the office. Emails, contacts or the personal calendar are all easily accessible. The integration of Apple iOS devices within IntelliLink enables Siri Eyes Free voice control. This makes it possible for drivers to hear an incoming SMS read aloud or dictate an SMS and emails – all while keeping their hands on the wheel and their eyes on the road ahead.

Comprehensive Safety & Comfort Package

When it comes to safety, the Corsavan benefits greatly from its close relationship with its passenger car sibling and comes with a generous package of safety features. The highlight is Opel’s award-winning Side Blind Spot Alert, which uses ultrasonic sensors to warn the driver of an imminent collision when changing lanes, overtaking or turning a corner. The sensors have a range of three meters to the left and right of the vehicle, and detect objects or other vehicles in the driver’s blind spots. Whenever another vehicle comes within range of the sensors, a warning LED illuminates in the relevant exterior door mirror. Side Blind Spot Alert works in speeds ranging from 10 km/h to 140 km/h.

The second-generation Opel Eye front camera, with Traffic Sign Recognition, Lane Departure Warning, High Beam Assist, Following Distance Indication and Forward Collision Warning, also further increases driving safety. Traffic Sign Recognition reads speed limit- and no-passing signs and displays them on the instrument panel. Lane Departure Warning alerts drivers when they unintentionally stray out of their lane. High Beam Assist offers a considerable safety advantage when driving in the dark automatically activating the high beam light for better road illumination and improved visibility. Following Distance Indication, which is activated automatically at speeds from 40 km/h, not only helps to prevent collisions, but also helps to avoid possible fines for not maintaining sufficient safety distance to the vehicle in front. If the vehicle gets into a critical situation where a collision with the preceding vehicle is imminent, Forward Collision Warning alerts the driver with a loud alarm as well as a visual warning on the instrument cluster.

At the touch of a button, the City mode of the steering system, fitted as standard except when the Opel Eye front camera is chosen, increases power assistance at lower speeds, which is particularly useful when maneuvering in congested urban areas. Hill Start Assist also comes as standard. It maintains the brake function for about two seconds. This prevents the Corsavan from rolling back when starting on a slope. On cold days, owners benefit from the heated ThermaTec windscreen that ensures perfect visibility and the heated steering wheel.