Adaptive and bright as day: Newest IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements
Triple-row Matrix: For near area, the bright-dark border and glare-free long range vision
Best in class: Opel Astra with light system from Insignia and Grandland Opel flagships
Newest IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements
All-new Opel Astra is not only electrified for the first time, it also continues to bring state-of-the-art technologies to the compact class that customers have previously only known from more expensive cars. A real highlight that combines emotionally charged design with the utmost practicality is the newest generation of the adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light.
System – which is adopted from the Insignia and Grandland Opel flagships – is unique in the compact class and features 168 continuously reacting LED elements (84 per headlamp) that ensure that the light output is precisely adapted to the prevailing driving conditions, without glare for other road users.
“Drivers of the new Opel Astra enjoy the best night vision of all with IntelliLux LED Pixel Light”, said head of light technology, Ingolf Schneider. “This is engineering of the highest precision, made in Germany and accessible to all.”
Premium light in compact class: IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with triple-row Matrix
New Astra’s slim headlamps comprise a triple-row matrix with seamlessly flowing functions:
In the near-field area, a long row of pixels continuously adapts the focus of the light to every cornering situation.
Another row of finely defined and similarly fast reacting pixels ensures optimum range in the area where brightness and darkness meet.
Actual Matrix function precisely “cuts” preceding and oncoming traffic out of the middle and upper pixel rows within milliseconds. Remaining areas continue to be fully illuminated. This means that Opel Astra driver always has “bright-as-day” light at his disposal, but without glare for other traffic. This enables the driver to identify objects such as signs or animals at the roadside at a distance that previously lay in darkness. Drivers can therefore react faster and sooner.
Design and technology in one: Opel Vizor as technology platform
New Astra’s IntelliLux LED Pixel Light headlamps, together with the LED daylight driving lamps and the indicators, are integrated in the Opel Vizor. Unique brand face thus becomes a technology platform as well as a powerful design element.
In its newest generation the best-selling Opel Astra continues its long standing role of making innovations affordable to many customers, both as five-door hatchback and as Opel Astra Sports Tourer estate. Previous Opel Astra generation (“2016 European Car Of The Year”) already brought the pioneering IntelliLux LED Matrix Light to the compact class in 2015.
Performance Agreement with works council makes investments possible
Groupe PSA confirms its intention to manufacture the new Opel/Vauxhall Astra in two plants in Europe, including Rüsselsheim
Next Opel Astra to join Opel Insignia on the manufacturing lines in Rüsselsheim
All-New Opel Astra to be a strong contributor to Opel brand electrification
Strengthening of apprenticeship
Groupe PSA will invest in the Rüsselsheim plant and create the sustainability of the site with the production of the next generation Opel Astra as of 2021
After the signature of an agreement with the works council and the IG Metall and as mentioned in the PACE! plan, Groupe PSA will invest in the Rüsselsheim plant and create the sustainability of the site with the production of the next generation Opel Astra as of 2021.
Opel Rüsselsheim plant
Astra is traditionally one of Opel’s most popular models. Next generation, based on the Groupe PSA EMP2 platform, will also allow the production of an electrified version of the compact class bestseller in Rüsselsheim. Decision was made possible by further improvements of efficiency and competitiveness of the plant. Opel flagship Insignia will continue to be manufactured in Rüsselsheim as well.
Rüsselsheim plant - Opel Insignia manufacturing
“This is an important step forward for the Rüsselsheim plant. This investment will allow work in two shifts and secure the sustainable future of the Rüsselsheim plant,” said Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller.
Agreement with the social partners allows employees within vehicle production born in and before 1963 to participate in a partial retirement programme. Furthermore, the voluntary programme will be reopened for employees working in vehicle production. According to the agreement, 120 new apprentices per year will be hired in Rüsselsheim in the coming years. With this, the company sets another important example.
“This result shows the determination of all involved stakeholders to come to an outcome that works for all parties. Rüsselsheim will continue to play an important role in the industrial footprint of Groupe PSA,” added Lohscheller.
“Increasing competitiveness, efficiency and quality is part of Groupe PSA’s production DNA and the Rüsselsheim plant has made major inroads in all of these areas,” said Yann Vincent, Executive Vice-President Manufacturing & Supply Chain at Groupe PSA. “I count on Rüsselsheim to contribute to the manufacturing of the next generation Opel Astra.”
Opel Astra K - Design sketch
Opel Astra, which is currently produced in Ellesmere Port (UK) and Gliwice (Poland), has been a permanent fixture in Opel’s model range ever since it was introduced as a replacement for the Opel Kadett in 1991 and won the “Car of the Year” award in 2016.
Opel Astra K: Car of the Year 2016
The bestseller was already produced in the Rüsselsheim plant between 2009 and 2015.
Sought after: Innovative technologies go down well with customers
Smart: Almost 60 percent order front camera, 55 percent Navi 900 IntelliLink
Sophisticated: Dynamic and INNOVATION trims much in demand
Successful: Opel Astra second in compact car sales in Europe and Germany
Dynamic duo: Opel Astra Sports Tourer and Opel Astra five-door have convinced more than 500,000 customers from across Europe.
Lightweight vehicle architecture, highly efficient propulsion
technologies along with trendsetting digital connectivity and driver
assistance systems – these qualities of the Opel Astra, introduced at
the 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show, have already convinced more than 500,000
customers across Europe. The perennial bestseller currently holds second
place in the European compact class market, while also being second in
Germany and on other important markets.
Since this year, the Astra has
managed to claim top spot in its segment in the Netherlands. Its
technological highlights include Opel OnStar, the personal connectivity
and service assistant, and the IntelliLux LED Matrix light,
which enable permanent and glare-free high beam. Numerous international
awards such as the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’ and ‘European Car of the Year
2016’ cement the athletic eye-catchers credentials.
“We are delighted that our latest generation Astra has already been
able to convince over half a million customers. The high demand for
leading innovations and equipment features along with ultra-modern
assistance systems shows that our philosophy of bring trendsetting
technologies into the compact class and thus making them available to a
broad audience is paying dividends. This is what we understand by ‘the
future is everyone’s’,” said Managing Director Sales & Aftersales
Peter Küspert.
Bestsellers: Opel Eye front camera, Navi 900 IntelliLink and AGR seats
The orders for the Opel Astra reflect the outstanding reputation of
the high-tech solutions. Almost 60 percent of all customers decide on
the Opel Eye front camera, which in combination with numerous driver
assistance systems, makes driving the Astra not just more pleasant but
also safer. The driver assistance systems included Traffic Sign
Recognition, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning, Following
Distance Indication along with Forward Collision Alert with Autonomous
Emergency Braking. The latter actively helps avoid or mitigate rear-end
collisions. If the gap shrinks below a safe distance, it warns the
driver with a loud audible alarm, a visual warning in the instrument
cluster and an LED projection on the windscreen.
Furthermore, Autonomous
Emergency Braking is initiated when a collision threatens. Lane Keep
Assist provides the driver with an audible and visual warning if he
should unintentionally leave the lane while Lane Departure Warning
softly acts again unintentional veering. Elsewhere, Following Distance
Indication continuously calculates the distance to moving vehicles on
the road ahead. This value is then displayed to the driver in seconds. A
stylized green car symbolizes the vehicle ahead. If the distance is
insufficient, the Headway Alert function is automatically activated and the symbol turns amber.
The Opel Astra is also available with the latest generation optional
radar and based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), which automatically
maintains the pre-set distance to the vehicle ahead. ACC automatically
adapts the speed and follows in accordance with the set safe distance;
three distance settings (near – mid – far) are available. ACC behaves
like conventional cruise control if there is no vehicle in the driving
lane ahead, but it will additionally apply the brakes to maintain the
set speed when driving downhill. Icons in the instrument cluster inform
the driver about set speed, selected gap and if ACC has detected a
vehicle ahead.
Around every third Astra customer chooses the LED tail lamps so that
they are even easier to see in the dark. However, Opel Astra customer do
not just look for safety. They are also want comfort and comprehensive
infotainment. The second most popular equipment feature after the front
camera package is Navi 900 IntelliLink. Around 55 percent of all Opel Astra
models sold across Europe feature the ultra-modern infotainment system
with eight-inch color touchscreen and integrated navigation. The maps
cover all of Europe. Furthermore, the optional system is, depending on
the device, compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
In order to enjoy an even more comfortable ride, around every fourth
Opel Astra customer orders the AGR-certified (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.)
and multiple award-winning ergonomic seats for driver and front
passenger. They have a massage function, ventilation and side bolster
setting – a unique combination in the compact class.
Upscale trim levels popular
Elsewhere, both the higher trims available for the Opel Astra, ‘Dynamic’
and ‘Innovation’, have also proved to be extremely popular with
customers. Since the European “Car of the Year 2016” was launched, over
60 percent of Astra buyers have opted for the higher trim choices,
giving them access to a lot more standard equipment and features that
they subsequently do not need to order as an option. For example, Opel’s
personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar comes as
standard in both of the aforementioned trim levels. The personal
connectivity and service assistant offers functions such as Automatic
Crash Response, Vehicle Diagnostics or Stolen Vehicle Assistance and a
4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot[1] for a stable internet connection. Up
to seven devices can connect to the system simultaneously and use the
high-speed mobile connection. Hotel bookings[2] and finding a suitable parking lot[3]
are also no problem with OnStar. The driver can contact an Opel OnStar
Advisor by pressing the blue button. The advisor will then look for a
hotel in the desired price category and books a room or send the address
of the closest parking possibility to the navigation system.
Furthermore, the Dynamic and INNOVATION trims also include comfort
features such as leather steering wheel, adjustable armrest or fog
lamps.
[1] OnStar Services require activation and account with
OnStar Europe Ltd. Wi-Fi Hotspot Services require account with nominated
network operator. Charges apply after expiry of applicable trial
periods. All services subject to mobile network coverage and
availability. Check [LOCAL SITE] for service limitations and charges.
[2]Via Booking.com. E-Mail address and credit card required.
Recipe for success: Astra’s overall package wins over customers across Europe
Shining example: System popular on the important Germany market
Seeing the light: Technology enables permanent high-beam lighting without dazzling
Next generation: Further development of LED matrix light coming in new Opel Insignia
Sterling display: Innovative IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights are popular with the Opel Astra customers.
Over 350,000 Opel Astra orders since the car went on sale in 2015,
Opel’s bestselling model in 2016, second place in the compact segment
across Europe and in the compact retail segment in 2016 and a host of
international accolades including the Golden Steering Wheel and the
European ‘Car of the Year 2016’ award – Opel Astra is without a doubt a
real winner. Its recipe for success consists of ingredients such as
lightweight construction, highly efficient propulsion systems,
outstanding digital connectivity and driver assistance technologies
normally only found in the premium segment. The intelligent IntelliLux
LED Matrix light is one these technologies. It has not only won over
critics across Europe winning various awards
on the way but it has also established itself as one of the most sought
after options available for the Opel Astra. Eighteen months after its
introduction, IntelliLux LED Matrix light can look back on a success
story only rivalled by the success of the Opel Astra itself.
In Germany, Opel’s important home market, every third Astra is
ordered with the highly efficient and high performance lighting system.
In neighboring Switzerland around 45% of Opel Astra buyers want IntelliLux
LED Matrix light and the feature is also winning over customers in
Austria with over 40% of vehicles intended for the Alpine republic
coming with the innovative and affordable lighting technology.
Elsewhere, IntelliLux LED is also extremely popular in Finland and
Sweden (each 37%). However, even these impressive figures are dwarfed by
the success of the system in Norway where a massive 84% of new Opel
Astra cars on the roads are equipped with the lighting technology of the
future.
“We are obviously delighted with the success of the IntelliLux LED Matrix light. It is further proof that our principle of democratizing
technology by providing innovative and affordable solutions is finding
its mark with the customers. I must compliment our engineers on this
highly effective system that provides outstanding night time performance
enhancing safety for the driver and those around them,” said Opel Vice
President Sales & Aftersales Peter Christian Küspert.
Matrix system automatically adapts to every traffic situation
Light on: Consisting of 16 LED segments – 8 on each side of the
vehicle – the new LED Matrix system automatically and constantly adapts both
the length and shape of the light cone for every traffic situation
Consisting of 16 LED segments – 8 on each side of the vehicle –
the LED Matrix system automatically and constantly adapts the length and
distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation. As soon as
the vehicle exits urban areas, the high-beam lighting is automatically
switched on. Not only Astra drivers benefit from this – while they enjoy
excellent light and visibility conditions, they do not dazzle other
road users. When the camera detects light sources from oncoming or
preceding traffic, individual LEDs in the relevant zone are deactivated,
simply “cutting out” the area around the vehicles. The rest of the road
and its surroundings remain brightly illuminated. With this degree of
precision and adaptation, LED Matrix light elevates lighting technology
to the next level.
Opel lighting engineers have not only made an intelligent, Full LED
system more affordable, they have also taken it to a new level of
intelligence. As not all Astra customers opt for an embedded navigation
system, the lighting system can recognize if the vehicle is in an urban
area or on a highway for instance independently. In addition to the many
automatic low and high beam pattern variations, IntelliLux LED also
provides a special highway light mode that further increases safety at
night. In addition, the system also has a considerably longer running
life than headlamps with Halogen or Xenon lamps.
Added safety and comfort also coming in new Opel Insignia Grand Sport
New Opel Insignia Grand Sport with latest generation IntelliLux LED Matrix
light: 32 individual LED segments – 16 per headlight – and a special
high beam range of up to 400 meters.
Given the success of the system in the Opel Astra, it is hardly surprising that the company is optimistic that the next generation of IntelliLux LED lighting, which will be introduced with the all-new Opel InsigniaGrand Sport in 2017 will prove to be just as popular with the customers. LED
technology has developed rapidly since the introduction of the Astra and
the Opel engineers have been able to incorporate 32 individual LED
segments on the Insignia. As a result of the smoother transitions
between the higher number of LED segments, the light patterns can be
more precisely adapted. The adaptive IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights of
the new Insignia therefore produce a larger amount of even brighter
light.
To improve visibility still further while driving through curves on
full high beam, the engineers added a new function to the new Opel Insignia
IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights. The light intensity at the inner Matrix segments rises according to steering angle in order to increase
the illumination of the curve. Each IntelliLux LED headlight also
features a high-beam spotlight that provides additional illumination at
full high-beam for up to 400 meters, further improving the new
Opel Insignia long-range visibility.
Higher trim levels proving to be popular
Elsewhere, both the higher trims available for the Opel Astra, ‘Dynamic’
and ‘Innovation’, have also proved to be extremely popular with
customers. Since the European “Car of the Year 2016” was launched, over
60 percent of Astra buyers have opted for the higher trim choices,
giving them access to a lot more standard equipment and features that
they subsequently do not need to order as an option. For example, Opel’s
personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar comes as
standard in both of the aforementioned trim levels. Furthermore, comfort
features such as leather steering wheel, adjustable armrest or fog
lamps are also included.
Sales for the first ten months of the year up by 45,500 vehicles
One million milestone reached earlier than last year
Driver of growth: Around 300,000 orders have been received for the Opel Astra, “Europe’s Car of the Year 2016”.
Opel is continuing to grow across Europe and has already reached the milestone of one million vehicles sold. In the first ten months of the year, registrations across Europe increased by 45,500 units or around five percent to more than 977,000 units. The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker has already sold more than one million vehicles this year – reaching the milestone roughly a fortnight earlier than last year.
“Opel’s upward trend is continuing. These numbers show that our new models are well received. And in 2017 we will raise the stakes when we launch seven new models. That is more than ever before in Opel’s history and our customers can already look forward to it. Our new arrivals will also give us a stronger presence in markets segments with a lot of potential,” said Vice President Sales & Aftersales Peter Christian Küspert.
Opel is currently in the middle of the biggest model offensive in the long history of the company and will launch 29 new models between 2016 and 2020. The theme for the year 2017 is ‘7 in 17’. In addition to the Ampera-e electric car, Opel will also launch the new generation of the company’s flagship, the Insignia next year, which will be available as a five-door sedan (Insignia Grand Sport), as a station wagon (Insignia Sports Tourer) and as an off-roader (Insignia Country Tourer). Furthermore, there will be a new version of the Vivaro. In addition, Opel will be present in the fast-growing CUV segment with the Crossland X and another newcomer still to be announced
Opel’s new models have already been driving the sales figures up this year, the Astra leading the way with around 235,000 units sold – an increase of about one quarter. Meanwhile, the company has already received 300,000 orders for Europe’s “2016 Car of the Year”. Demand for the Opel MOKKA X compact SUV is also high. 75,000 orders have already been received although the car has only been available for order across Europe for a few months.
Opel not only managed to increase sales in the first ten months of the year – the European market share also grew slightly to 5.81 percent with increases registered on 12 markets. The Rüsselsheim-based carmaker thus posted its best ten-month result since 2011 – despite the company withdrawing completely from the Russian market.
Opel Kadett launched as innovative small car with an integral body and frame
Over 24 million Opel Kadett and Astra have been sold to date
Current generation Opel Astra continuing the success story of its ancestors
Opel led the way in the 1930s, especially with the innovative and revolutionary all-steel unitary body construction.
The first Opel Kadett was a minor sensation, both technically and in
terms of price. More than 100,000 of these four-seat models were built
from 1936 to 1940 in Rüsselsheim, which even then was one of the most
advanced car-making plants in Europe. The first Kadett with its
revolutionary unitary body construction available as a sedan or
convertible cost only 2,100 marks.
With its good value for money and progressive features, the first
Kadett laid the corner stone for Opel’s success in the compact class. To
date, eleven generations of Kadett and Astra have been successful in
their segment: Over 24 million Opel Kadett and Opel Astra cars sold is
an impressive number and a notable achievement. Lined up one behind the
other, all Opel compact models built so far would surpass the magical
100,000-kilometer mark and create a column of cars that could circle the
equator two and a half times. Opel compact cars have successively made
personal mobility accessible to a broad customer base, especially in
economically difficult times and not only that. The latest generations
have made technologies and innovations from higher segments affordable
for numerous customers. The new Opel Astra K, launched in 2015, has already been ordered 275,000 times across Europe.
1936-1940: Opel Kadett 1 – The “Volkswagen”
The speedy four-seater could do nearly 100 km/h and it did not take
long to find its way into the hearts of the general public. It also
found favor with the press: “As the first test drives have confirmed,
the Kadett is certainly not an ordinary vehicle in this price range,”
wrote a German newspaper, “Braunschweiger Tageszeitung,” on December 5,
1936. The chassis with Dubonnet independent front suspension and
leaf-spring rear axle stemmed from the Opel Olympia, and the L-head
four-cylinder gray cast-iron engine was taken from the Opel P 4. It
generated 23 hp from a displacement of 1,073 cm3. The
advantages of taking the engineering from a modular system also played a
key part in the low price of the car. Just like its big brother the
Olympia, which it resembles in appearance, the Kadett is a modern car.
Harmonious proportions with a hatchback and integrated headlights are
characteristic.
Flowing lines: The 1936 Opel Kadett shows harmonious proportions with a hatchback and integrated headlights.
Like its big brother the Olympia, which it also resembles, the Kadett
was a snazzy car. It was characterized by harmonious proportions with
fastback and integrated headlamps. In 1938 a major mid-cycle enhancement
added a new radiator mask in late art deco style– experts today count
this model as an intermediate generation.
From Kadett to Admiral
“Just as agile, versatile and obedient to all the driver’s commands
as you would expect of a career-making cadet,” wrote the Cologne
newspaper, “Kölnische Zeitung,” in 1936 about Opel’s new car. Its name,
“Kadett” was as new as the segment. Up until the debut of the first
Astra in 1991 (see page 54), Opel’s compact class line would use this
name for more than five decades. The company launched two more ranges
with names stemming from the German navy, Admiral and Kapitän, in 1937
and 1938.
Unitary body and ultra-modern production
After the Olympia, which was the first German series-production
vehicle to feature a unitary all-steel body, the first Kadett also had a
monocoque body. There are many advantages of this construction compared
with the classic wooden body-on frame. For instance, the driving
performance and fuel consumption benefit from the car’s low weight,
while the safety level is higher thanks to the rigid passenger cell and
the lower center of gravity. The self-supporting structure opened the
door to a new production method that is still commonly used today: The
body and the powertrain (engine, transmission, axles) are “married” on
the production line with the help of hydraulic elevators. The Kadett was
manufactured by Opel, in Rüsselsheim. In 1936, the company operated the
most modern drop forge in the world and the largest body press shop in
Europe.
Fresh design and innovative technology
Headlamps integrated into the body instead of the ancient separate
lamp units gave the Kadett a fresh appearance. Not surprising, because
it was Opel that first made modern car design popular in Europe. Back in
the 1930s, shortly after the company’s integration into the General
Motors Group, a design department was established in Rüsselsheim on the
initiative of GM chief designer, Harley Earl.
Impressive from all angles: Opel Kadett was popular right from the start and is now a sought-after classic car.
Plenty of car for your money: As long ago as 1936, the first Kadett
offered the same good value for money and thus democratized luxury. This
has become typical of the Opel brand. Details such as hydraulic
four-wheel brakes, direction indicator, draft-free ventilation through a
triangular hinged window and “dustproof” trunk accessible from the
inside were at that time very unusual for this category of car – in the
Kadett, they were all standard.
The secret of the Kadett’s success: Modern design, outstanding
spaciousness and innovative technology such as the unitary body
construction.
The Kadett was the first Opel model to feature an in-house developed
downdraft carburetor with a so-called venturi tube. In this tube, named
after the Italian physicist, Giovanni Battista Venturi (1746–1822), the
fuel is mixed into the incoming air ahead of the throttle valve. The
venturi tube is a smooth-walled piece of tubing with a constriction in
it. When air flows through the tube and passes the constricted section,
it has to flow faster at this point than in the other sections. As a
result, a vacuum is produced (as on the upper side of an aircraft wing).
At the constricted point is a tube filled with gasoline. The fuel is
sucked in by the vacuum in the venturi tube and dragged along.
At a glance
Series
First generation Opel Kadett
Production period
1936–1940
Number
107,608 (Moskwitch: 247,439)
Body variants
Two-door sedan
Four-door sedan
Two-door convertible
Engine
Gasoline: 1.1 l/23 hp
Body/Chassis
Body/chassis design
Monocoque all steel body
Front wheel suspension
Rigid axle, forged
Front wheel suspension/damping
Dubonnet springs/shock absorbers
Rear wheel suspension
Rigid axle, banjo type
Rear wheel suspension/damping
Semi-elliptical leaf springs, hydraulic shock absorbers;
“Normal-Limousine” (sedan) from 1937: semi-elliptical leaf springs,
shock absorbers
Steering, type
Worm segment steering
Wheels, type
Steel disk wheels
Tires, size (Base)
4.50 x 16
Dimensions/Weight
Length/width/height (mm) (Sedan)
3810 x 1375 x 1455
Special-Limousine (from 1937)
3840 x 1375 x 1535
Normal-Limousine (from 1937)
3710 x 1375 x 1455
Wheel base (mm) (Sedan)
2337
Track width front/rear (mm)
1075/1168
Curb weight (kg)
757
The post-war generations: From Kadett A to the current Astra K
1962-1965: Opel Kadett A – For the economic miracle
A large trunk and plenty of room for four people plus a new, lively
engine and low maintenance costs made up the recipe for success for the
Kadett A. Opel built nearly 650,000 of them from 1962 to 1965. The
contours of the two-door notchback model were businesslike and modern.
The beltline was low down, the panoramic windows made for good
visibility and a decorative strip running along the side accentuated the
stretched form. Front fenders tapered off into the headlamps and the
rear ends were shaped like fins. The interior space deeply impressed
owners of conventional small cars. The trunk was a real baggage
compartment and the fuel tank cap was outside! “Opel Kadett, in brief:
O.K.,” wrote Opel’s advertising team, unable to also resist a dig at
their competitors in Wolfsburg. “You never have the smell of gasoline in
the trunk,” they said with a wink. With its modern, water-cooled front
engine, the Kadett had another major design advantage over the Beetle.
The 993 cm3 four-cylinder unit developed 40 hp and, from March 1963, also powered the new Kadett Caravan.
1965-1973: Opel Kadett B – “Das Auto”
B follows A, and in 1965 a new series replaced the first model. The
new version was more than four meters long and thus a good deal bigger
than its predecessor. As for its fashionable figure – the designers were
inspired by their colleagues overseas. The flat sloping rear was
reminiscent of the fastback models popular in the USA. In 1966,
“Automobil Illustrierte” noted: “You can almost see the power and speed
before you hear the engine.” Not only was the length stepped up – so,
too, was the horsepower. Opel engineers enlarged the bore of the
four-cylinder unit by 3 mm. The basic 1,078 cm3 unit developed 45 hp. Also available was a higher-compression 1.1 S engine with 55 hp.
The Kadett was a fast success, with over 2.6 million units produced
from September 1965 to July 1973. And its success was certainly not
limited to its country of birth. In 1966, the export quota reached 50
percent as customers from 120 countries around the globe snatched up the
Kadett.
1973-1979: Opel Kadett C – The athlete
The Kadett C family had many faces: a smart family car, a chic second
car with a practical rear tailgate, or a competitive sports coupé in
war paint. A total of 1.7 million of them were built between 1973 and
1979. The rear-wheel drive Kadett C made its debut in August 1973 with a
cleanly designed body and a new double-wishbone front axle.
Characteristic design features included a flat radiator grille, an
engine hood with the brand’s signature crease, and a front apron in
spoiler form. “The Kadett not only drives exceptionally well, but is
also conscientiously designed and cleanly made. It requires little
maintenance, is repair-friendly and economical to run,” praised the
car-testing experts at “auto motor und sport” in the 20/73 edition. The
powerful GT/E debuted at the 1975 IAA. Its 1.9-liter engine with Bosch
L-Jetronic injection produced 105 hp and propelled the mere 900
kilograms of Kadett to a top speed of 184 km/h.
1979-1984: Opel Kadett D – The front-wheel drive car
New epoch: Front-wheel drive and transverse-mounted engine celebrated
their debuts in Opel compact class cars in the 1979 Kadett D.
The fourth generation of the post-war Kadett introduced a new compact
class era at Opel. At the 1979 IAA, Opel’s first front-wheel drive
model debuted as the modern-looking Kadett D. The packaging was truly
convincing. Although the newcomer was 126 mm shorter than its
predecessor at 3,998 mm, it sported a longer interior and offered
significantly more space than many of its rivals. But it was not only
the powertrain layout and the chassis with a torsion-beam axle at the
rear that broke with tradition: the Kadett was given a new 1.3-liter OHC
engine that generated 60 or 75 hp. The revolution continued with the
body variants. In addition to the spacious station wagon with a load
volume of up to 1,425 liters, Opel offered only fastback versions. In
January 1983 the sporty Kadett GTE followed, with a top speed of 187
km/h and equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that developed
115 hp. Other technical modifications included a tighter and lower
chassis, new steering dampers and internally ventilated disk brakes at
the front. A total of 2.1 million Kadett D units were produced from 1979
to 1984.
Great white: Opel Kadett D GTE with its sports chassis, Recaro seats and feisty 115 hp began hunting down GTIs in 1983.
1984-1991: Opel Kadett E – The aerodynamics world champion
Opel Kadett E: “Car of the Year 1985”
The second front-wheel drive Kadett, built from 1984 to 1991, was
named “Car of the Year 1984” and was an absolute winner. Selling a grand
total of 3,779,289 cars in its lifetime, it was the bestselling Opel so
far and a real aerodynamics world champion. Opel engineers certainly
hit the jackpot in 1984. Based on the engineering of its predecessor but
with a completely new hatchback design, the Kadett E was set for a
stellar career. With a drag coefficient of 0.39, the Kadett D was
already best in its class, but this figure paled in comparison to its
successor. After spending 1,200 hours of fine-tuning in the wind tunnel,
the E model achieved a sensational 0.32. The sporty GSi, with a Cd of
0.30 and aerodynamic drag of 0.57 m2, was the most aerodynamic hatchback
in the world. Buyers took to the new form after only a few months,
paving the way for a new success story that provided the Kadett E with
625,000 new registrations across Europe in 1987. By this time, the
station wagon version had already climbed to the top of its class. From
the fall of 1985, a notchback variant was again in the line-up, the
first since the Kadett C. Moreover, the sporty GSi variant was an icon
in the making. When the legendary 16-valve engine arrived on the scene
in 1987, it left its competitors eating dust.
1991-1997: Opel Astra F – The bestseller
Body variants of the ’91 Opel Astra F, 1991–1998.
Some 4.13 million Astra Fs were built between 1991 and 1997, making
it the bestselling Opel model ever. Development work focused on
combining modern design with more interior space, enhanced comfort and
greater emphasis on environmental protection.
Opel Astra F with active belt system with pre-tensioners
The successor to the Opel Kadett assumed the name of its British sister
model (the fourth generation of the Kadett had been sold in the UK as
the Vauxhall Astra since 1980).
High safety as standard: Side protection with double steel tube reinforcements in all the doors.
Opel also launched a safety offensive
with its new star. All Astras offered an active belt system with
tensioners on the front seats belts, height-adjustable belts and seat
ramps as well as side protection including double steel tube
reinforcements in all the doors. For the first time, all engines came
with catalytic converters.
1998-2004: Opel Astra G – The versatile car
In spring 1998, the Astra with coupé-like design was offered from the
start as a three- and five-door hatchback and as a station wagon. A
notchback sedan, coupé and convertible were added later. Progressive
independent design, dynamic chassis and powertrain technology as well as
nearly twice the torsional and flexural rigidity of its predecessor
were just some of the characteristics of the completely new,
second-generation Opel Astra. The new model’s fully galvanized body
played a key role in its high value retention. Active safety was
enhanced with a 30 percent increase in the light output of the
transparent H7 halogen headlamps and the completely redesigned Dynamic
Safety (DSA) chassis. It combined comfort with agile and safe handling,
even under full load. The wheelbase was around ten centimeters longer,
enabling more interior space, in particular more rear knee room in the
rear and a larger trunk volume of 370 liters.
2004-2009: Opel Astra H – The mighty car
With twelve engines ranging from 90 to 240 hp and seven body
variants, the choice of models for the Astra H that sold over 2.7
million units was exceptional. When it was launched in March 2004, the
third-generation Opel Astra boasted a progressive design, high driving
dynamics and plenty of technical innovations, immediately winning
numerous comparison tests in specialist automotive publications. The
Astra’s technological highlights included the adaptive IDSPlus chassis
system with electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC), otherwise only
found in luxury class and exclusive sports cars, as well as Adaptive
Forward Lighting (AFL) Bi-Xenon headlamp system with dynamic curve light.
The
Astra also boasted high levels of safety. The consumer protection
organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) awarded
the Astra the highest rating of five stars for adult passenger
protection. With a total of 34 points, the bestseller was considered one
of the safest sedans in the compact class.
2009 – 2015: Opel Astra J – The designer piece
Sculptural artistry combined with German precision – the Opel Astra J
not only embodies the brand’s new design philosophy, it also assists
drivers with a range of technologies that already made an important
contribution to the success of the best-selling mid-class Insignia. The
Opel Eye recognizes traffic signs and informs the driver of speed limits
or overtaking bans. It also warns drivers if they are in danger of
veering out of lane. With the AFL+ headlamp system, the Astra can look
around the corner and, if necessary, even automatically dim the lights
or switch to high beam. With a chassis that can be enhanced by the
FlexRide adaptive technology, the current Astra can play out its dynamic
talents to the full. A new rear axle construction guarantees driving
fun, improved handling and maximum comfort, with a Watt’s link
incorporated to improve wheel control. Astra drivers also benefit from a
new generation of front seats developed according to the latest
findings in safety ergonomics and are awarded with the seal of quality
from the independent medical and back experts of the AGR (action for
healthy backs) organization.
From 2015: Opel Astra K – Car of the Year 2016
Up to 200 kg lighter, roomier inside despite a reduced overall
length, and more efficient thanks to exclusive use of new-generation
engines – the new Opel Astra is a quantum leap in development and is
crowned European Car of the Year 2016. The compact car is once again
available as a hatchback and as a spacious Sports Tourer. Opel receive
numerous orders even before the official world premiere at the 2015
Frankfurt Motor Show – to date, Opel has received 275,000 orders of the
latest generation Astra.
Continuing a tradition that started with the Astra G, the new Astra K
also stands out with its lighting technology. It is the first car to
introduce the adaptive, Full LED Matrix technology IntelliLux LED
– so far reserved for luxury and premium models from higher classes –
into the compact segment. New generation driver assistant systems also
comprise Traffic Sign Assistant (TSA), Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with Lane Departure
Warning (LDW) along with Following Distance Indication (FDI) and Forward Collision
Alert (FCA) with Collision Imminent Braking (CIB). In addition, the new Opel Astra K once
again delivers on wellness with newly engineered ergonomic front seats,
certified by the AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken)
organization once more, being introduced. These new front seats can even
be enhanced with a ventilation and massage function.
Volume increase of over 44,000 units across Europe by end of September
Bestseller: New Opel Astra has already been ordered 275,000 times.
Opel has sold around 895,000 vehicles across Europe in the first nine
months of 2016 giving the brand its best result since 2011 despite
completely pulling out of the Russian market. This is equivalent to an
increase of more than 44,000 vehicle or almost 5.2 percent compared to
the same period of 2015. Sales from January to September were up in 18
markets including Germany, France, Spain and Italy. The market share was
up in twelve markets. The market share of Opel and its British sister
brand Vauxhall of the overall European vehicle markets was at 5.87
percent.
Europe’s “Car of the Year 2016”,
the new Opel Astra was the driving force behind the increases. So far
this year, the new Astra has been registered 212,000 times across Europe
– an increase of around 22 percent compared to the same period of 2015.
Opel has already received more than 275,000 orders for the Astra.
Opel MOKKA X is also continuing the success story started by its predecessor.
Orders have already surpassed 60,000 even though the new generation of
the highly successful SUV has only been at dealers since the end of
September.
“We are well prepared with these great products along with the brand
new Opel Zafira and our revolutionary electric car Ampera-e,” said Peter
Christian Küspert, Opel Vice President Sales & Aftersales who also
emphasized that Opel would continue its product offensive with numerous
new models in 2017.
Dynamic OPC Line Sport Pack now available for “Car of the Year 2016“
Athletic, compact, efficient and extremely agile: OPC Line Sport
Pack can now be ordered to sharpen the Opel Astra’s attractive
contours.
Athletic, compact, efficient and extremely agile – the youngest Opel Astra generation shows off what it’s got. The “Car of the Year 2016”
impresses with its dynamic, slim body. Now the five-door model is
available in an even bolder look: the optional OPC Line Sport Pack can
be ordered to sharpen the Astra’s attractive contours.
Sporty, flowing design: New OPC Line Sport Pack gives the Opel Astra an even racier look.
The front apron in OPC Line style gives the Astra an even stronger
presence and extra-low stance. The prominent cutouts in place of the fog
lamps to the left and right below the headlamps emphasize the Astra’s
confident look. Their horizontal lamella inserts take up the grille’s
new design and carry it from the center out to the sides. The sporty
uniform line flows around the car into the bold side sills. While the
rear of the series production version of the current Astra generation
already has a low, wide and athletic stance, the OPC Line Sport Pack’s
rear apron accentuates this even more. The license plate in the
sculpted, voluminous bumper is framed by pronounced swage lines. And the
lower tail lights are no longer horizontal, now forming exclamation
points as vertical lighting lines on the car’s edges. This all gives the
rear a more muscular appearance.
“With state-of-the-art technologies and lively engines, the youngest
Astra generation stands for pure driving fun. Our OPC Line Sport Pack is
perfect for those who want to underline these qualities with an
especially sporty look,” says Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President
Sales and Aftersales at Opel.
Eye-catcher: Prominent swage lines in the remodeled bumper and tail
lights as vertical lighting lines set exclamation points on the Opel
Astra’s rear styling.
The front apron, side sills and rear apron lip of the OPC Line Sport
Pack are always color-coded. Customers can choose from six metallic
colors (Sovereign Silver, Mineral Black, Deep Sky Blue, Dark Caramel,
Cosmic Grey, Emerald Green) as well as two brilliant lacquers (Summit
White, Absolute Red). The Pack, that gives the five-door Astra in
Active, Dynamic and INNOVATION trims levels that extra touch of
sportiness, can now be ordered for €1,150 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).
Compact class darling: Youngest Astra generation winning over experts and customers
Compact class leader: Innovative technologies such as Matrix lighting and Opel OnStar
Successful duo: No matter whether as a Sports Tourer or a hatchback – New Astra is extremely popular
“Golden Steering Wheel” winner, “Most Sensible Car” and ultimately “Car of the Year 2016” –
since its premiere last year, the new Opel Astra has been winning over
experts and the public alike. But not only them: customers also love the
youngest generation of the compact class success story. To date,
already more than 250,000 orders have been received across Europe for
the Astra five-door and Sports Tourer variants.
Car of the Year 2016: New Opel Astra impresses with technical
innovations, efficiency and a completely new lightweight vehicle
architecture.
“Lighter, more agile and with top technologies that make driving more
relaxed – this is our new Astra,” says Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas
Neumann. “We promised a big hit in the compact class – and we kept our
promise. With a host of innovations otherwise rarely found in this
segment, the youngest generation of the Astra and Astra Sports Tourer is
again a bestseller.”
Both of the current Astra five-door and Sports Tourer variants are
based on a completely new lightweight vehicle architecture that has
trimmed up to 200 kilograms off the car’s weight. Powerful new engines
deliver outstanding efficiency and lots of driving fun. The Astra offers
superb connectivity with state-of-the-art smartphone integration and
the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar with a
powerful Wi-Fi Hotspot for up to seven mobile devices (depending on
market).
It also continues the Opel tradition of making innovative
technologies and features from higher classes available to a broad
customer base. Opel introduced the trendsetting Adaptive Matrix light
IntelliLux LEDinto the compact class in the new Astra.
It
enables driving outside the city with constant glare-free high beam
lighting, thus increasing active safety for all road users as well as
driving comfort for the Astra driver.
Permanent high beam: Opel IntelliLux LED Matrix light is
adaptive; it recognizes a vehicle approaching or immediately ahead and
blanks them out.
Numerous other assistance systems
also based on the ultra-modern Opel Eye front camera also support the
driver – from the precise Traffic Sign Assist (TSA) and Lane Keep Assist (LKA) with
active steering correction to Forward Collision Alert (FCA) with Autonomous
Emergency Braking (AEB). And then there is the “comfort kick” in the Astra
Sports Tourer: for the first time, an Opel luggage compartment can be
opened and closed without requiring a key or remote control. A simple
kick under the rear bumper is all it takes to open or close the
tailgate.
Market share up by more than 0.8 percentage points to more than 7.4 percent
New Opel Astra generates additional impetus
New Astra drives growth: Opel has increased its May sales figures in Germany by 26 percent.
Opel continues to grow on the important German market. The Rüsselsheim-based brand’s passenger car sales were up by nearly 26 percent or by roughly 4,400 units to around 21,260 in May. Opel therefore grew at more than twice the rate of the total German passenger car market. Opel’s share of the passenger car market was up by more than 0.8 percentage points to more than 7.4 percent.
Opel also continued its growth path in the course of the year. With almost 103,000 passenger cars, Opel increased its sales for the period from January to May by around 13,250 units (15 percent). Also in this period, the brand grew more than twice as strong as the total German passenger car market. Market share was up by more than 0.5 percentage points to around 7.4 percent, which is the best result in this period for five years.
Europe’s “Car of the Year 2016”, the new Opel Astra, was once again the main driver of this growth. So far this year more than 26,600 Astra have been sold – an increase of around 30 percent compared to the same period of last year.
Car of the Year 2016: New Opel Astra has been sold more than 26,600 times this year – an increase of around 30 percent compared to the same period of last year.
Elsewhere, the Opel Mokka was another guarantee for success. Sales of the successful SUV increased by almost 40 percent in May alone, thus taking top spot in the monthly and the year-to-date SUV B segment rankings.
“Things are continuing to look up at Opel. I am sure that our new models will add further impetus to our sales. Especially given the fact that the new Opel Mokka X has been available for order in Germany since the beginning of the week,” said Jürgen Keller, Opel Executive Director Sales, Marketing and Aftersales in Germany.
