New Opel Corsa GSE: Hot Hatch Tradition Reloaded

• Back to the future: Opel Corsa GSE revives the tradition of sporty Corsa models
• Small, strong, fast: 207 kW (281 hp), 345 Nm, from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds 
• From the Opel Corsa A GSi to the new Opel Corsa GSE: Each Corsa generation enthuses fans with at least one highly dynamic version

Compact, quick and seriously powerful: the new Opel Corsa GSE 1 delivers electrifying driving pleasure in its purest form! This new everyday performance car – which will arrive later this year and will celebrate its exhibition premiere at the Paris Motor Show in October – is turning heads not just with its striking, racy ‘hot hatch’ design. Above all, its performance figures speak for themselves: With 207 kW (281 hp) and 345 Newton metres of torque it will offer just as much electric power as the Opel Mokka GSE. Added to this is the fastest acceleration of any current Opel production model: in just 5.5 seconds, the Opel Corsa GSE propels the speedometer needle from 0 to 100 km/h 1. This is high performance in a compact package and makes the new Corsa GSE the most powerful production Corsa to date.

At the same time, the new high-performance version of Germany’s and UK’s bestselling small car takes the sporty GSi genes of the first Corsa generation into the future. Ever since the first generation of the model, Opel has been offering Corsa fans the chance to drive an extra-hot and sporty version of the beloved small car. The ‘hot hatch’ fun all began in 1988 with the Corsa GSi. Since 2007, the various versions and generations of the Corsa OPC have been providing adrenaline rushes. And now the new, all-electric Corsa GSE is on the starting blocks, ready to deliver the ultimate driving experience a small car can offer!

The first Opel Corsa GSi: A car as dynamic as a motorcycle

In 1988, the first Opel Corsa GSi entered the market. A car as dynamic as a motorcycle: ultra-compact, 820 kilogrammes light, with prominent wheel-arches, sports seats, 74 kW (100 hp) and 188 km/h fast.

The 1.6-litre injection engine newly developed for the launch accelerated the sportive first-generation Opel Corsa to 100 km/h in around 9.5 seconds. With powerful low-end torque, the car has always brought a smile to Opel Corsa GSi drivers’ faces when they step on the accelerator pedal. To bring the higher performance and agility onto the road, Opel engineers adapted the chassis and brakes of the Corsa to the GSi specification. The extra features included stiffer springs, specially tuned shock absorbers as well as larger, internally ventilated front disc brakes. Anti-roll bars at the front and rear kept the car safely on track in corners.

The designers also reflected the sporty character of the first Opel Corsa GSi in its appearance. The standard specification at the time already included sports seats, a three-spoke sport steering wheel, a rev counter, sports alloy wheels and wide tyres. With its technology and design, the first-generation Opel Corsa GSi paved the way for future generation sporty Corsa models.

GSi = fun-to-drive: Opel Corsa B GSi and Opel Corsa C GSi boost performance

A particularly sporty model variant hit the road in 1993, the Opel Corsa GSi 16V. It featured colour-keyed side-sills and bumpers as well as front and rear spoilers. The standard equipment also included electronically controlled ABS, a rev-counter and wide tyres.

As most powerful Corsa model of its time, the second-generation Opel Corsa GSi offered 80 kW (109 hp) and impressed once more with plenty of power from low revs (‘low-end torque characteristics’). The small car could sprint from zero to 100 km/h in 9.5 seconds and reach a maximum speed of 195 km/h. A sporty chassis and gas-filled shock absorbers helped to bring the performance onto the road. The Corsa driver could shift gear using the five-speed sports gearbox, and the standard power steering helped to steer through tight bends with ease. Sports seats and a leather-trimmed steering wheel created the right atmosphere in the cockpit.

In 2001, the Opel Corsa C GSi followed in the footsteps of its predecessor – stronger, faster and more powerful than before. With a top speed of 202 km/h and acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.0 seconds, the third-generation Corsa GSi was the fastest production Corsa to date. At the same time, the Corsa GSi’s 92 kW (125 hp) 1.8-litre engine impressed not only in terms of power but also, thanks to 165 Newton metres of torque, with sporty bursts of acceleration while maintaining modest fuel consumption. This was made possible by an advanced engine management system controlling sequential fuel injection, particularly precise fuel distribution, ignition and other functions. Even back then, the developers focused on delivering sporty driving pleasure in the most resource-efficient way possible.

Start of the Opel Corsa OPC era in 2007: Even sportier, stronger and more expressive

From 2007 onwards, the ‘OPC’ abbreviation had finally come to stand for pure dynamic driving fun in the Opel Corsa as well. In that year, Opel presented the Corsa D OPC with 141 kW (192 hp) and 266 Newton metres of torque. With a dark-contrasting diffuser, striking gills, powerful front and rear aprons and a roof spoiler, the OPC showed at first glance what drivers could expect. But the end of the line had not yet been reached. In 2010, the Corsa OPC ‘Nürburgring Edition’ – the most powerful Corsa to date – followed. Its characteristics: 154 kW (210 hp), 280 Newton metres of torque, from 0 to 100 km/h in 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 230 km/h! The newly developed Bilstein performance chassis and the special high-performance braking system from Brembo brought the power safely to the road.

Opel continued to cater to GSi fans amongst Corsa drivers too: For all those who preferred a more discreet sportiness with superior power delivery, Opel had also the fourth-generation Corsa GSi on offer. With 110 kW (150 hp) and a top speed of 210 km/h, the for the first time turbo-charged car closed the gap between the ‘ordinary’ production Corsa and the high-performance OPC variant.

 

The OPC of the fifth-generation Corsa, which followed in 2015, also demonstrated right from the start that, whether on the famous Green Hell of the Nürburgring race track or in the urban jungle, the Corsa E OPC feels at home anywhere. Once again being the fastest member of the Corsa family with a top speed of 230 km/h, it combined uncompromising sportiness with superb everyday practicality. This sporty car, just under four metres long, impressed with its powerful turbo engine delivering 152 kW (207 hp) and 280 Newton metres of torque, its agile handling and, last but not least, its sporty design: Recaro performance seats, a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel and sports pedals inside, as well as large air intakes, a strongly contoured bonnet, bold side skirts, a dominant rear spoiler and the twin exhaust tailpipes flanked by a diffuser on the outside all bore witness to the power of the Corsa OPC. And to channel this power onto the road in a controlled manner, the Corsa E OPC featured, for the first time, a suspension system with Frequency Selective Damping technology.

‘Hot hatch’, the next level: The new Opel Corsa GSE electrifies the public

To all who want to experience an exhilarating, high-performance driving experience in a state-of-the-art small car before the end of this year will not have to wait much longer. The new Opel Corsa GSE is on the way. It succeeds the Opel Corsa OPC as the most powerful Corsa to date and takes the ‘hot hatch’ experience to the next level – uncompromising, thrilling and, above all, fully electric and locally emissions-free. After all, that is exactly what GSE stands for: Grand Sport Electric!

 With 207 kW (281 hp) – that is 181 hp per 1,000 kilogrammes of vehicle weight! – and 345 Newton metres of torque, the new Opel Corsa GSE will offer just as much electric power as the Opel Mokka GSE. At the same time, however, the top-of-the-line version of the model family becomes even more dynamic. With an acceleration of just 5.5 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h1, the high-performance Corsa pushes its driver into the GSE sports seat more vehemently than any other current Opel production model.

Sophisticated technology also contributes to the exceptional performance, handling stability and direct feedback: the Opel Corsa GSE has front-wheel drive with Torsen-multi-plate limited-slip differential and a lowered sports chassis with specifically designed axles, stabilisers and hydraulic shock absorbers. GSE-optimised steering and pedal tuning underlines the highly dynamic driving experience. And if necessary, four-piston performance brakes ensure immediate deceleration from high speeds.

The new Opel Corsa GSE confidently showcases its performance. Numerous details – from the GSE-specific front and rear to 18-inch wheels, performance seats, yellow seatbelts to digital displays with performance data and much more – create a Corsa GSE design with genuine wow-factor and demonstrate what emotional, all-electric ‘hot hatch’ driving fun is all about in its purest form.

[1] All data are provisional. Vehicle not yet homologated and 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 behavior and other non-technical factors.

40 years of Opel Corsa: Success story in Six Acts

• Successful model: Over 14 million Corsas sold since 1982
• Pioneer: Opel introduces top technologies from higher classes in small car
• Bestseller: Sixth Opel Corsa generation again a market success
• E-car: Electric Opel Corsa-e already accounts for around one-fourth of sales

2022 is an anniversary year for Opel: the company has been making innovations affordable for everyone for 160 years, and at the same time one of its biggest bestsellers is celebrating its 40th birthday. Opel Corsa revolutionised the small car class with its premiere in 1982 and today, in its sixth generation, is more in demand than ever. Last year, the current Corsa was the most popular small car in Germany and the best-selling car in the UK. Battery-electric Opel Corsa-e won the “Golden Steering Wheel 2020” 1, now already accounts for around one-quarter of Corsa sales and is successfully competing in motorsport as an emissions-free rally car.

But to fully understand the popularity of the Corsa since its debut in 1982, it is first necessary to look at another successful model with the Blitz – Opel Kadett. Initially an approximately 3.8-metre-long small car conceived and designed to bring mobility to more people at a time when driving a car was still real luxury. Then over the decades customers quickly became more discerning as their prosperity increased. Small Kadett became larger and more powerful in the second half of the 20th century, moving closer to the compact class with the arrival of each version. This created a slot below what had become Rüsselsheim’s classic entry-level model.

So it was high time for a new, genuine small car – time for the Corsa. The new small model rolled off the production line for the first time in the autumn of 1982 in the newly built car plant in Zaragoza and immediately took off on its path to becoming a bestseller for Opel. To date – 40 years after its launch – well over 14 million units have left the plants, most of them produced in Zaragoza and Eisenach.

This success is due in no small part to the numerous top technologies that have been introduced in the various Corsa generations and that were previously only available in higher vehicle classes. These include safety and assistance systems such as ABS and airbags as well as the front camera with distance indicator, traffic sign recognition and lane keep assist and, most recently, the adaptive glare-free Intelli-Lux LED Matrix light. Now in its sixth generation, the best-selling small car shows just how fit it is for the future. Since 2019, it has also been completely emissions-free for the first time: as the battery-electric Opel Corsa-e.

Opel Corsa – Success story in six acts

Act One: Opel Corsa A 1982 to 1993

Opel Corsa A featured close-coupled proportions within a short length of just 3.62 meters. It had bold, flared wheel-arches like a rallye car and an exceptionally low 0.36 drag coefficient which was possibly record-breaking for its class. Chief designer Erhard Schnell had created a sporty small car with crisp, chiseled lines, intended to particularly appeal to ‘the man of the house’. Highlight was the 100 hp Corsa GSi, and diesel power was also introduced. Two-door hatch and notchback line-up was expanded in 1985 with the addition of the popular five-door model. Opel Corsa A became a highly acclaimed top seller with 3.1 million units built.

Opel Corsa A GSi

Act Two: Opel Corsa B 1993 to 2000

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

Opel Corsa B GSi 16V

Act Three: Opel Corsa C 2000 to 2006

In the spirit of never changing a winning team, Hideo Kodama was again asked to design the shape of the Opel Corsa C. Styling was consciously oriented towards its successful predecessor. Opel Corsa grew again by ten centimetres to a total length of just under 3.84 metres and had a wider stance with a longer wheelbase, which greatly increased interior space. For the first time, the body was fully galvanized. Sophisticated four-valve ECOTEC petrol and new direct-injection turbo diesel engines ensured strong power, low fuel consumption and lowest emission values – all variants already complied to the Euro 4 emission standards. Opel Corsa C also became a star performer and sold 2.5 million units.

Opel Corsa C

Act Four: Opel Corsa D 2006 to 2014

From now on, the three and five-door versions go their separate ways: the three-door Corsa has unique, coupé-like styling aimed at sporty customers, just like the original Corsa A. Five-door variant becomes a spacious, fully-fledged family car. Opel Corsa D was still less than four meters in length, having grown to exactly 3.999 meters. With Opel’s ecoFLEX technology, Corsa had fuel-saving Start/Stop systems and highly efficient engines. 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX version consumed just 3.3 l/100 km over the combined cycle and emitted only 98 g/km CO2 (according to NEDC). Fourth generation Corsa sold over 2.9 million units.

Opel Corsa D ecoFLEX

Act Five: Opel Corsa E 2014 to 2019

Dynamic, practical and stylish, Opel Corsa E is also a bestseller with around 1.3 million units sold.  Fifth generation is also built in the Opel plants in Zaragoza and in Eisenach. For the first time, the small star tops the four-metre mark, offering high comfort and top technologies over a length of 4.02 metres. Heatable steering wheel, seat heating and automatic climate control are of course on offer, as are the front camera with distance indicator, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Keep Assist. Corsa drivers are optimally connected with the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible IntelliLink infotainment systems including a seven-inch colour touchscreen. Small car’s sporty top-of-the-line model is initially the 152 kW (207 hp) Opel Corsa OPC and later Opel Corsa GSi with 110 kW (150 hp).

Act Six: Opel Corsa F electric version introduced in 2019

Opel is optimally equipped for future challenges with Corsa number 6. The latest generation of the small car, which celebrated its world premiere at the 2019 Frankfurt International Motor Show, is also available as a purely battery-electric, emissions-free version for everyone for the first time. A real highlight is also the adaptive glare-free Intelli-Lux LED Matrix light, which Opel also offers for the first time in the small car segment with the current Corsa. In addition, there are numerous state-of-the-art assistance systems such as Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking and pedestrian detection as well as radar-based Adaptive Speed Control, which make driving even safer and more relaxed. With a length of 4.06 metres, the five-seat Corsa’s handling, clear lay-out and practicality remain exemplary. Coupé-like roof line is 48 millimetres lower than its predecessor – without any detriment to headroom. Driver sits 28 millimetres lower. Low centre of gravity benefits driving performance and handling. Latest Corsa is more direct and more dynamic – for more fun behind the wheel. With this recipe for success, the small car with the Blitz has once again become the most popular small car and the best-selling car in countries such as Germany and Great Britain respectively.

Opel Corsa F GS Line

Battery-electric bestseller is proving its electrifying effect on the public in several ways: in Germany, the series-production Corsa-e won the “Golden Steering Wheel 2020” 1 – and as a modified Corsa-e Rally, it is demonstrating in motorsport how top performance and environmental compatibility can be combined. With the emissions-free small car, Opel is the first manufacturer to develop a battery-electric rally vehicle that has been competing in the ADAC Opel e-Rally Cup, the world's first electric one-make rally cup, since 2021, thus showing the future of rallying.

Opel Corsa e-Rally

[1] “Golden Steering Wheel 2020” Opel Corsa-e: AUTO BILD & BILD AM SONNTAG issue 45/2020, category “small car”.

Zaragoza produces its 11 millionth Opel Corsa since 1982

• Opel Corsa reaches a new milestone in its long relationship with the Zaragoza Plant: 11 millionth unit of this model has just rolled off the assembly line of this production center

• Since 1982, Zaragoza and Opel Corsa are practically synonymous words. Since its inauguration to the present day, the Aragonese factory has manufactured the six generations of this model

• Produced in Aragon exclusively worldwide, Opel Corsa F is the model of the brand best-selling in the world. It stands out both for its attractive and elegant design, as well as for its high level of safety, performance and comfort. These qualities, together with the possibility of opting for a 100% electric version, the Opel Corsa-e, have been key to its commercial success

For almost four decades, Opel Corsa rhymes with Zaragoza. Aragonese plant opened its doors in 1982 to produce this model, with which it has maintained a more than lasting relationship: it has manufactured its six generations and is currently in charge of assembling the Opel Corsa as a world exclusive, including its 100% version. electric, new Opel Corsa-e.

Today, the Zaragoza Plant dresses up to experience a new milestone in its long idyll with the compact Opel urbanite: the 11 millionth unit of the Opel Corsa has left its facilities. A magic number for both the factory and its workers who, in the last 39 years, have seen all these cars pass through the hands and care of generations of operators and engineers.

If all the Opel Corsa produced in Zaragoza since 1982 were lined up, they would go around the world and there would still be enough vehicles to cover the distance between the Aragonese capital and Beirut. A comparison that gives an idea of ​​the importance of this car for the brand of lightning. Since its launch it has been a strategic model in its range. It is the best-selling Opel vehicle, as well as being one of the great pillars of the German firm's electrification process. Currently, it represents more than a third of the brand's registrations on the five continents.

Thanks to this commercial success, Stellantis Plant in Zaragoza has established itself as a key production center for Opel, since the brand's sales leader, New Corsa, and the Opel Crossland, the SUV that follows in the sales ranking.

Launched at the end of 2019, the sixth generation of the Opel Corsa has become a benchmark in the B segment due to its attractive design, its features, its technological equipment and its interior space. Its electric version, the Opel Corsa-e, marks the difference between the zero-emission models in its category thanks to its 359 km of autonomy, its power of 136 HP (100 kW) and its maximum instantaneous torque of 260 Nm, which provides capacity response, agility and dynamic behavior.

It incorporates technologies normally reserved for higher segments, such as the adaptive matrix lighting system IntelliLux LED or advanced driving assistance functions among which the high-tech front camera, traffic sign reader, radar based Adaptive Cruise Control with stop and go functionality, sensor based lateral assist or active lane assist.

“Opel Corsa is an iconic model of our brand that is manufactured, exclusively worldwide, in Zaragoza, a city where its production began in 1982. For 40 years, it represents the brand's offer in a key category, segment B, where its six generations have been a benchmark for its modern and dynamic design, for incorporating the most advanced technology of each era, as well as for its comfort and interior space. Reaching 11 million units produced gives us an idea of ​​both the good work of the Zaragoza Plant and the solidity of the Corsa concept, which have succeeded in very diverse times, conditions and markets ”, said Pedro Lazarino , Director of Opel for Spain and Portugal.

“ Present since the inauguration of the factory in 1982, the Opel Corsa is a key model in the history of the Zaragoza Plant, as evidenced by the 11 million units produced at our facilities to date. A figure that says a lot about the maximum level of demand and quality of the factory and the adaptability and commitment of its workers over the years. These qualities have made it possible to produce its sixth generation, built on an innovative multi-energy platform, exclusively worldwide. Quite a challenge that has required a deep modernization of the facilities and manufacturing methods ”, says Manuel Munárriz, Director of the Zaragoza Plant.

Mobility for Millions: Best Example – Opel Corsa “120 Years”

120 Years of Opel Automobile Production

• Exclusive anniversary offer: Opel Corsa “120 Years” special model at best prices
• Long tradition: Laubfrosch, P4, Kadett, Corsa and Co. make millions mobile
• For everyone: Democratisation of technology is core Opel brand characteristic
• Assembly line: Advanced production leads to first real people’s car from Opel

Opel patent motor car System Lutzmann & Opel Corsa “120 Years”

In 2019 Opel celebrates 120 years of automobile production – and thereby 120 years full of innovations for everyone. The German brand has a tradition of pioneering high-tech advancements and quickly bringing them to series production. This makes mobility affordable for many and the cars safer, cleaner, more comfortable and more practical. The 120 years advertising campaign, “Opel. Born in Germany. Made for everyone.” is based on this philosophy. It was as true of the first Opel – the Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” of 1899 – as of all the other models that followed, from the “Doktorwagen” to “Laubfrosch” (Tree Frog), P4 and Kadett. Today the philosophy matches the Opel Corsa more than any other model.

Opel Corsa “120 Years”

Depending on the model version, the Corsa is as suited to singles and couples as to whole families. So it comes as no surprise that more than 13.5 million units have been produced since 1982. “The Corsa remains one of our most important models across Europe”, says Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director Sales, Aftersales and Marketing. The bestseller therefore plays a leading role in this anniversary year. “Opel has been democratising mobility for 120 years”, added Duchemin. “In our cars we make pioneering technology and comfort features affordable for all. This is what we stand for and the best example of this is the Corsa! Our anniversary model line-up has the right car for everyone – with extensive equipment and at best prices.”

Opel Corsa “120 Years”

The standard equipment of the Corsa special model positioned above the “Edition” variant includes assistance systems such as rear Park Pilot and Cruise Control. Comfort is increased with features like heated seats, heated steering and velour carpets. In addition to attractive prices, the “120 Years” models also feature light-alloy wheels and stylish chrome details, as well as “OPEL” and the “120 Years” logo on the door sills. Prices for the Opel Corsa “120 Years” in Germany begin at €15,440 including VAT (Corsa 1.2 with 51 kW/70 hp and five-speed manual transmission: fuel consumption1, 2 : urban 7.4-7.3 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.0-4.9 l/100 km, combined 5.9-5.8 l/100 km, 134-132 g/km CO2) –  with additional equipment packs the price advantage can reach as much as €2,540.00 3.

Since 1899: Suitability for everyday use over technology as an end in itself

Opel Corsa in general and the Corsa “120 Years” in particular show that it is a core brand characteristic to always offer customers more than they expect in the respective vehicle class. The foundation for this was laid at the end of the 19th century by the Opel patent motor car “System Lutzmann”. Its short price list already included two innovative extras: the first was the pneumatic tire, which was invented by Robert William Thomson in 1845, but had not yet found widespread use in automobile production. The second was the optional removable child seat available for the small two-seat motorised coach, whose one-cylinder, 4 hp engine delivered a speed of 30 km/h. This example alone clearly illustrates what Opel has been all about from the very beginning: absolute suitability for everyday use instead of technology as an end in itself.

First “small car” in automotive history

In 1909, the Opel 4/8 hp pioneered the introduction of affordable mobility. It was modern with solid technology, easy to operate and manoeuvrable, enabling ambitious car owners to drive it themselves instead of relying on a chauffeur – considerably reducing the overall cost of ownership. And the quality of materials and workmanship created confidence. The first officially designated “small car” in automotive history was considered fully suitable for everyday use. The vehicle ideal for “doctors, veterinarians and lawyers” according to the adverts was available at prices from 4,000 to 5,000 Marks, while models from other manufacturers cost around 20,000 Marks. Thus the means of transport for the upper class became a vehicle for the middle class - thanks to the “Doctor's car”.

In 1924, the Rüsselsheim-based company went even further to cater to the “average consumer” – also thanks to an automotive innovation. After all, from the very first minute Opel was committed to producing cars as efficiently as possible and thus making them affordable for a broad customer base. Consequently, the 4/12 hp heralded the start of assembly line production in Germany. And because the 60 km/h fast car was only available “in a quiet green that pleases the eye” to keep the time and effort required for production at a minimum, everyone called it the “Tree Frog”. Soon, 25 two-seater “cars for everyone” left the assembly line every day. In the following years an entire vehicle family was built on the Tree Frog technology. The smoother production ran, the greater the cost advantage that Opel passed on to its customers. Unbelievable but true: the purchase price of the 4 hp model series, of which 119,484 units were produced, was almost 40 per cent lower in 1931 than at the launch of the Tree Frog model.

People’s car with top drive technology at modest price

In 1935 the time was ripe for the people’s car – from Opel, mind you. The P4 presented in November rolled of the assembly line soon thereafter. The four-seater with four-cylinder four-stroke engine – according to the P4 brochure “like the most expensive cars in the world” – cost only 1,450 Marks in the standard version. “How is this possible? To offer so much value, a real full-out automobile that even exceeds expectations for so little money?” The answer was clear: thanks to state-of-the-art mass production. This also came into play shortly thereafter with the Kadett 1, which also took over the design of the Opel Olympia. This made it one of the first German cars to feature a self-supporting all-steel body, which was more comfortable, safer and more durable than the conventional frame structures.

The real people’s car successor was the 1962 Kadett A. The low maintenance costs were expressly part of the recipe for success of the two-door notchback model. The lines were matter-of-fact and modern. At the same time, the interior space was anything but typical of a small car. The advertising promised “well-formed seats, plenty of legroom. We have dispensed with overhanging metalwork and unnecessary bells and whistles. That would only have cost a lot of money.” Instead, the boot was a real luggage compartment and – the fuel filler cap was on the outside! “You never have the smell of petrol in your boot,” it said with a wink towards Wolfsburg. With its modern, water-cooled front engine, the Kadett offered a further design advantage over the Beetle. “Opel Kadett, in short: O.K.” – Opel built almost 650,000 units by 1965 alone.

Lots of space on a small platform

In 1982 Opel once again accomplished a great feat with a small car: the Corsa A joined the range below the Kadett, which by now was becoming a compact model. Designed by Chief Designer Erhard Schnell, who also penned the legendary Opel GT, the only 3.62m-long Corsa was notable for its prominent rally-car wheel arches and a drag coefficient of 0.36. Offered initially as a two-door hatchback and sedan, and a five-door as of 1985, the Corsa again demonstrated how masterfully Opel can generate space on a small platform. The 100hp GSi also combined frugality with fun. Originally conceived as an entry-level model for those on a tight budget, the Corsa A had become a bestseller by 1993 with a total of 3.1 million units sold.

Opel Corsa surpasses 14 million units and heads for electro-mobility

Opel remains in the middle of society today. Across the range the brand offers features more often found in more expensive cars. Now in its fifth generation, the Corsa is typical for this democratisation of mobility. The small Opel star is heading for 14 million registrations in Europe, also thanks to the “120 Years” special model, which already comes as standard with a host of state-of-the-art technologies as well as design and comfort features at attractive prices. The next generation of this practical, stylish and dynamic model will be launched in a few months’ time, also with a pure battery electric variant. The 2019 Corsa will continue Opel’s 120-year history of automotive engineering and mobility for millions with a significant and ground-breaking new chapter.

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

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

Opel Combo Life

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

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

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

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

Opel Combo Life XL

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

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

Happy Birthday: Order Books for Special 120 Years Edition Opel Models with Top Features now Open

• Made in Germany: Opel celebrates 120 years of car making with great offers
• Full of features: Lots of Opel passenger cars from ADAM to Zafira in “120 years” trim
• All in: Park assist, seat and steering wheel heating, IntelliLink mostly standard
• Attractive conditions: Customer savings on special “120 years” edition models

Opel Grandland X “120 years” edition

Opel will celebrate 120 years of car manufacturing in 2019 and thus 120 years of innovative technologies that the carmaker makes available to a broad range of customers – true to the Opel motto “The Future is Everyone’s”. In order to celebrate this anniversary with its customers accordingly, Opel is launching the “120 years” special editions. Passenger car models such as the small cars ADAM, KARL and Corsa, the bestselling Astra, the sporty SUV family consisting of the Crossland X. the Mokka X and the Grandland X right up to the Zafira compact van and the Insignia flagship will be available in the “120 years” trim and thus come with bundles of state-of-the-art technologies, design and comfort features as standard at attractive conditions. Order books for the special “120 years” edition models are open now.

Opel Corsa “120 years” edition

“Opel has been democratising mobility for 120 years. In our cars, we make trendsetting technologies and features affordable for all groups of buyers. That is what we stand for! And that is why we are offering the special edition ‘120 years’ trim level for so many of our models to mark the start of our anniversary,” said Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director Sales, Aftersales & Marketing.

The special edition trim sits directly above the “Edition” trim and, depending on the model, includes assistance systems such as Park Assist or Cruise Control as standard. Features such as heated seats, heated steering wheel and velour floor mats increase the level of comfort. The “120 years” models become true eye catchers with stylish alloy wheels, chrome elements, door sills with Opel lettering and of course the “120 years” badge. And all this is available at attractive prices. For example, the special edition Corsa is already available from €15,440, prices for the anniversary Astra start at €21,725 and for the Grandland X at €29,200 (all prices RRP including VAT in Germany).

Opel Astra “120 years” edition

Example Opel Astra: The compact Opel bestseller already shines with assistance systems such as Hill Start Assist and Cruise Control as standard in its entry-level version. Air conditioning, thermal glazing and Quickheat heating system are also already on board. Fog lamps and Rear Park Assist are added as standard on the “120 years” variant. Heated front seats and the heated steering wheel along with the sight package including rain sensor, automatic headlamps with tunnel detection and automatic dimming rear-view mirror ensure comfortable temperatures and an increased level of safety on cold and wet days. In addition, Astra 5-door and Sports Tourer drivers and occupants can rely on outstanding connectivity and entertainment thanks to the Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible R 4.0 IntelliLink infotainment system with seven-inch colour display. The door sills with Opel lettering, 17-inch alloys in 5-twin-spoke design and the “120 years” logo immediately identify the Astra as a special edition model.

Opel Crossland X  “120 years” edition

The “120 years” Opel Crossland X comes with the same inner values as the Astra. Furthermore, the SUV, which was successfully launched last year, features a heated ThermaTec windscreen for a clear view on frosty days. The LED ambient lighting in the centre console and the doors increases the feel-good atmosphere in the dark. On the outside, the “120 year” Crossland X shines with high-gloss black B pillars, a chrome roofline, front and rear silver underride guard look and anthracite-coloured alloys in 4-twin-spoke design. Prices for the “120 years” Crossland X start at €21,650.

Opel GT and Opel Corsa A GSi are “Vintage Cars of the Year”

• Premiere: First time one brand wins two awards in Auto Bild Klassik readers’ choice
• Celebrities: Opel designer Erhard Schnell and touring car legend Volker Strycek accept awards

Vintage Car of the Year in the sports car and coupé segment: Opel GT designer Erhard Schnell next to his award-winning brainchild.

The 1968 Opel GT and the 1988 Opel Corsa GSi have won “Vintage Car of the Year” awards. It is the first time ever that two cars made by a single brand have celebrated victories at the “Golden Vintage Car” readers’ choice award organised by magazine Auto Bild Klassik. The pan-European award was established in 2010 and readers can choose their favourites in six categories. The iconic Opel GT won the “Sports cars and coupés” segment while the speedy Opel Corsa A GSi impressed in the “Small and compact car segment”. Two very special Opel ambassadors travelled to the award ceremony in Stuttgart. 91-year-old former Opel designer Erhard Schnell accepted the award for his brainchild – the Opel GSi. Elsewhere “Mister GSi”, Opel Director Performance Cars Volker Strycek, collected the trophy for the Corsa GSi.

“The courage we displayed when designing the Opel GT has paid off time and time again. I am delighted that its design still fascinates people today and has resulted in it winning ‘Vintage Car of the Year’,” said Erhard Schnell. “Opel has always built cars that spark emotion. This is demonstrated by icons such as the Opel GT but also by little sports cars such as the Corsa GSi – of which the latest variant is currently available,” added Volker Strycek.

Vintage Car of the Year in the small and compact car segment: “Mister GSi” Volker Strycek with the 1988 Opel Corsa A GSi.

Opel Corsa GSi was launched exactly 30 years ago. It was as dynamic as a motorbike: extremely compact, 820 kg light, with cheeky wheel arches, sport seats, 100 hp and a top speed of 188 km/h. It laid the foundations for further Corsa GSi models and its DNA can still be seen in its latest descendent. The latest generation Corsa GSi celebrated its world premiere a few weeks ago. Powered by a turbocharged 1.4-litre petrol engine (fuel consumption^[1]: urban 8.0-7.7 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.5-5.1 l/100 km, combined 6.4-6.1 l/100 km, 147-139 g/km CO₂) it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 second and has a top speed of 207 km/h. The new Corsa GSi and its big brother the Insignia GSi are thus continuing Opel’s successful GSi tradition.

A groundbreaking design was already a feature of the very first sketch for Opel’s other winner at this year’s awards, the Opel GT. Presented at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 1965, the Opel GT was already rolling off the production line three years later thanks to the excitement it stirred. The advertising slogan “Only flying is better” is just as iconic as the “Coke bottle” shape and the “sleeping eyes” pop-up headlights. Even back then, those responsible combined sportiness with comfort and trendsetting efficiency – just as the Opel designers are doing today with the Opel GT X Experimental. The forward-looking brand concept is a bold, 4.06-metre, 5-door, all-electric compact SUV with coupé appeal and brimming with innovative ideas, which gives a preview of what the future holds for Opel models.

 

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^[1] Values measured according to WLTP and converted to NEDC for comparison.

Opel Achieves Market Share of 10.2 Percent in September in Germany

Opel benefitted from the timely and consistent preparation of the transition to the new WLTP (Worldwide Harmonized Light Vehicles Test Procedure) test cycle in September: The brand with the Blitz achieved a passenger car market share of 10.2 percent (+ 2.6 percentage points) in Germany in September. This is the highest market share in an individual month since December 2010 and the highest September value since 2006.

New vehicles registered as of September 1, 2018, need to be certified according to the WLTP driving cycle. The procedure delivers fuel consumption data much closer to reality than this was the case for its predecessor, the NEDC (New European Driving Cycle). Unlike some competitors, Opel implemented these regulations at an early stage and can offer the entire passenger car portfolio without restrictions or delays.

Furthermore, Opel is already equipped for the new Euro 6d-Temp emissions standard: Currently, the Rüsselsheim-based carmaker offers 127 passenger models that already meet the strict limits of the new standard. It comes into force for all new registrations on September 1, 2019, at the latest.

“We have been preparing for these changes for years and certified our portfolio according to WLTP and Euro 6d-TEMP in good time. We can be proud of that. And now we are benefitting from it. With a view to the discussions on diesel driving bans in Germany, we can clearly say: Whoever buys an Opel now, does not need to fear driving bans,” said Jürgen Keller, Executive Director Sales, Marketing & Aftersales Opel Germany.

Modern Euro 6d TEMP vehicles, regardless of whether they have a petrol or a diesel engine, are not affected by the current discussions on inner-city driving bans.

Opel also benefitted from the extensive availability of WLTP-certified vehicles in other European countries. The brand with the Blitz achieved a market share of almost six percent in Spain while in France the company delivered its best passenger car market share since May 2015 with 4.3 percent. And Opel’s British sister brand Vauxhall also posted strong sales results in September. The combined passenger car and light commercial vehicles market share reached an 18-month high of 8.6 percent (compared to 7.3 percent in September 2017).