1,111,111th Opel Insignia Delivered to New Customer

• Opel sales and marketing boss, Xavier Duchemin hands over milestone-setting Insignia Sports Tourer to IDE managing director, Thomas Breser
• Second generation of Insignia flagship continues to impress

Opel has set another milestone in sales: the 1,111,111th Opel Insignia was handed over to Thomas Breser, Managing Director, IDE Integrated Dynamics Engineering GmbH by Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director Sales, Aftersales and Marketing, Opel Automobile GmbH. The Insignia Sports Tourer Business Edition will be driven by IDE engineers.

Xavier Duchemin, accompanied by Patricia Princess of Erbach-Schönberg, Managing Director, Auto Jacob GmbH in Rüsselsheim, said: “The Opel Insignia is the ideal ambassador for any company. Our flagship’s innovative technologies and high comfort make every business trip more pleasant. The big boot offers lots of space, not only for work but also for leisure.”

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer destined for the IDE fleet is powered by the strong yet economical 2.0-litre turbo-diesel with 125 kW/170 hp with six-speed manual transmission and start/stop (fuel consumption[1], [2]: urban 7.3-6.8 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.7-4.6 l/100 km, combined 5.6-5.4 l/100 km, 148-142 g/km CO2), which already meets the strict Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard. A relaxing drive is ensured by the AGR-certified ergonomic seats and Park Pilot front and rear. The Multimedia Navi infotainment system with seven-inch colour touchscreen – compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto – takes care of navigating to the client.

Opel Insignia, popular and successful among customers and experts

In terms of comfort, safety and advanced technology, the Opel Insignia, which is produced in Rüsselsheim, continues the Opel tradition of large flagship models. The first-generation Insignia impressed customers and experts alike. Following the world premiere in London, it was elected “International Car Of The Year 2009”, many other awards followed. By 2017, when 900,000 units had been produced, many more awards had followed.

The all-new Opel Insignia entered the market in spring 2017 as the Grand Sport limousine and the Sports Tourer and Country Tourer estate versions (the latter with class-leading all-wheel drive, including torque vectoring). 

The top-of-the-line model variant is the sporty Insignia GSi with 154 kW/210 hp 2.0-litre BiTurbo diesel engine and eight-speed automatic transmission (fuel consumption[3], [4]:urban 9.4 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.8 l/100 km, combined 7.1l/100 km, 188-187 g/km CO2).More than 200,000 units of the second generation have already been produced to date.

Accolades for the Insignia include the “Golden Steering Wheel 2017” in Poland (Auto Świat), Switzerland (Auto Bild) and Slovenia (Auto Bild), as well as “Best Car 2017” (Fleet Cars & Vans, Fleet Auto Premium) in Poland and “Fleet News of the Year” (FLEET Magazine) in the Czech Republic. In 2018 the Insignia was again elected “Family Car Of The Year” in Portugal (Observador), Romania (AUTOpro) and the United Kingdom (Auto Express) and Best Large Family Car in the “Carbuyer Best Car Awards”. The Opel flagship was nominated “Business Sedan of the Year” by Kilometres Enterprise in France and “Autoflotte Top Performer 2018” in Germany. Thanks to its advanced technologies, high comfort and top efficiency, the Insignia has claimed a leading position in its market segment. Fleet-registrations of the Insignia increased by 90.5 percent within 12 months.

Opel’s flagship offers High-Tech and High Comfort

The Opel Insignia is both an efficient company car and a comfortable automobile for long-distance driving and families. Insignia customers benefit from numerous advanced technologies such as IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights and AGR-certified ergonomic seats, while Multimedia Radio and Multimedia Navi infotainment systems ensure state-of-the-art connectivity. Thanks to real-time traffic information, Insignia drivers are guaranteed the latest status of fuel prices and parking-space availability.

[1] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison

[2] WLTP combined figures (for information only, not to be confused with official NEDC values):

combined 6.2-5.6 l/100 km, 162-148 g/km CO2

[3] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison

[4] WLTP combined figures (for information only, not to be confused with official NEDC values): 8.0-7.6 l/100 km, 209-198 g/km CO2 emissions

Opel Extends Petrol Engine Portfolio for Opel Insignia Flagship

• New 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo with 200 hp and Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF)
• Available on Opel Insignia Grand Sport, Sports Tourer and Country Tourer model variants
• Choice between six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission
• Prices start at €35,195 including VAT in Germany
• New generation of infotainment systems also make debut

Opel Insignia Grand Sport with new 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo

Opel has already taken more than 155,000 orders for the Insignia and the brand is now adding the newest version of its 1.6-litre petrol direct injection turbo to the engine range of its flagship model – in combination with six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission. From now on, the 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo can be ordered on Insignia Grand Sport, Insignia Sports Tourer and Insignia Country Tourer (fuel consumption¹ Grand Sport: 8.4-8.0 l/100 km urban, 5.6-5.3 l/100 km extra-urban, 6.6-6.3 l/100 km and 153-145 g/km CO₂ combined; fuel consumption¹ Sports Tourer: 8.6-8.3 l/100 km urban, 5.6-5.3 l/100 km extra-urban, 6.7-6.6 l/100 km and 154-151 g/km CO₂ combined). Model variants with the automatic gearbox come with the extra comfort and adaptability of FlexRide as standard. The fuel consumption¹ of the Insignia Country Tourer 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo is 8.6 l/100 km urban, 5.6 l/100 km extra-urban, 6.7 l/100 km and 156 g/km CO₂ combined.

The lively four-cylinder engine produces peak power of 147 kW/200 hp at 5,500 rpm and develops 280 Nm of torque from 1,650-4,500 rpm. With six-speed manual or automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, the 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo can power the Insignia up to a maximum speed of 235 km/h and enable zero to 100 km/h acceleration in 7.7 seconds.

In order to reduce particulate emissions as much as possible, the 1.6 direct injection petrol engine features a close-coupled Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) for optimum regeneration (i.e. oxidisation of the particles that accumulate in the filter). Opel Insignia 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo thus meets the strict Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard, which includes Real Driving Emissions (RDE) measured on public roads and comes into force for all new registrations in September 2019.

Opel Insignia is extremely attractive for both private as well as fleet customers. Buyers benefit from numerous state-of-the-art technologies such as adaptive cruise control, IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights and AGR ergonomic seats certified by the back-specialists from Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V. When the Opel flagship goes on sale with the 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo, it will also offer a new generation of Multimedia and Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment systems. These are not only state-of-the-art in terms of functionality, the systems are also stylish and intuitive to use. Customers enjoy a large colour touchscreen, up to eight inches in size, while drivers additionally benefit from a clearly arranged Driver Information Cluster, which can be enhanced by an optional head-up display in combination with the Multimedia Navi Pro.

Prices in Germany start at €35,195 including VAT for the Opel Insignia Grand Sport 1.6 Direct Injection Turbo with six-speed manual transmission.

^[1] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison.

100,000 Orders Already Taken for New Opel Insignia Flagship

• State-of-the-art equipment and options
• Moderate running costs
• Marketplace popularity matched by media success

Less than one year after the start of sales, Opel has already taken more than 100,000 orders for the new Insignia from all over Europe.

Manufactured at the Rüsselsheim plant in Germany, the new Insignia flagship is available as the Grand Sport limousine, the Sports Tourer estate and the all-wheel drive Country Tourer estate, in trim levels ranging from the already highly equipped Selection to the top-of-the-line Ultimate Exclusive.

The new Opel Insignia model line-up is crowned by the dynamic GSi – a sports-machine for those who like something special, a driver’s car for maximum fun on all kinds of roads.

The new Opel Insignia is powered by a portfolio of turbocharged, four-cylinder, diesel and gasoline engines from 1.5 to 2.0 litres in displacement, combined with a choice of six-speed manual or six and eight-speed automatic transmissions. The most powerful diesel and gasoline engines are also offered with innovative torque vectoring all-wheel drive.

The new Opel Insignia is extremely attractive for both private as well as fleet customers – it most recently picked up the “Company Car Today CCT100” award (Company Car Today) in the United Kingdom. Buyers not only benefit from numerous state-of-the-art technologies such as adaptive cruise control (which automatically adjusts the speed to follow the vehicle in front according to the selected following distance), IntelliLux LED matrix headlights (which automatically adapt to every traffic situation) and ergonomic seats certified by the back-specialists from Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V. The new Opel Insignia also offers moderate cost of ownership compared with its competitors in the high-volume and premium segments.

Nine in ten of the new Opel Insignia cars ordered so far come with the optional Navi 900 IntelliLink top-of-the-range infotainment system. The integrated navigation system features an eight-inch capacitive colour touchscreen. Navi 900 IntelliLink is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, thus bringing the world of smartphones into the car. If OnStar is on board, smartphones can also connect to the car’s powerful 4G/LTE Wi-Fi Hotspot^[1] – for example for flawless online audio streaming.

The popularity of the new Opel Insignia in the marketplace is matched by its success in the international media. The new Opel flagship has won prestigious awards from authoritative publications such as the “Golden Steering Wheel” 2017 in Poland (Auto Swiat) and Slovenia (Auto Bild) as well as “Best Car 2017” (Fleet Cars & Vans, Fleet Auto Premium) in Poland and “Fleet News of the Year” (FLEET Magazine) in the Czech Republic.

The new Opel Insignia has also proved its mettle against tough competition in comparison tests carried out by automotive magazines across Europe. To date, the Insignia has won 23 of 40 comparison tests: four wins in Germany (Autostraßenverkehr July 26 and September 20, Auto Zeitung July 26, Auto Bild August 4); three wins in the Netherlands (AutoWeek 29/17 and online July 21, AutoVisie July 6) and the Czech Republic (auto.cz September 29, AutoTIP October 2, auto motor und sport October 17); two in Portugal (Auto Hoje August 24, Auto Foco December 21), Belgium (Le Moniteur Automobile November 27, AutoWereld December 1), Poland (Auto Świat July 10 and July 17), Sweden (Teknikens Värld August 27, Vi Bilägare January 2018),and the United Kingdom (What Car? August 4, Auto Express January 17, 2018); and one each in France (caradisiac.com), Slovakia (auto motor und sport October 10) and Norway (Motor November 4).

^[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.

!NEW! 7 in 17: Seven New Models From Opel in 2017

Seven premieres: Model offensive from Opel Ampera-e to Opel Insignia flagship

Model offensive „7 in 17“: Next year Opel will bring seven new models into the market

Next year Opel will be driving flat out in all vehicle categories. “7 in 17” is the name of the model offensive with seven premieres in 2017. Never in its long history – automobile production since 1899! – has Opel had so many new models in a single calendar year. 

The “7 in 17” are part of the extensive model offensive with 29 new models between 2016 and 2020. During this period, the positioning and the portfolio of the company will be completely renewed.

“With these seven new models for 2017 Opel will become a completely different brand within the next 12 months,” said Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “We are making electro-mobility feasible for everyday driving with the Ampera-e. The second-generation Insignia shows a new elegance, lightness and athleticism. And with the equally new crossover vehicles in the B and C segments we are extending our portfolio in a decisive area, which will give our growth significant additional impetus.”

Model offensive “7 in 17” in seven steps

1. Range champion: Introduced at the Paris motor show, the Ampera-e will revolutionize electro-mobility as of spring 2017. With its electric range of more than 500 km (according to the New European Driving Cycle), the Ampera-e dominates its class. In addition, the Ampera-e offers sports car performance and the spaciousness of a five-door in the compact class.

2. New flagship: With the all-new Opel Insignia Grand Sport a five-door sedan with coupé-like silhouette, sporty handling and class-leading all-wheel drive makes its debut. Like its predecessor, more than 900,000 units of which have been sold, the new Insignia will be produced in Rüsselsheim.

3. Large sporty station wagon: Like the Insignia Grand Sport, the new Opel Insignia Sports Tourer shares its design language with the visionary Opel Monza Concept study from 2013. The sporty front with the slim headlights signals pure dynamism. Compared to the predecessor, the interior space has increased significantly, especially at the rear seats and in the trunk.

4. All-rounder: With the new Opel Insignia Country Tourer the Sports Tourer is joined again by an adventurer with all-wheel drive and off-road looks. The new Country Tourer is the right choice for winter-sport enthusiasts, outdoor fans and anyone who appreciates an individual appearance.

5. Versatile touring companion: Next year the successful Opel Vivaro enters a whole new level of passenger comfort and flexibility.

6. Car with that certain “X-tra”: At the beginning of 2017, the best-selling SUV in the B-segment – the MOKKA X – will be joined by a new crossover model (CUV) – the Opel Crossland X. The new model gives further impetus to the trend towards sporty as well as spacious CUVs.

7. New CUV in the C-segment: Opel will extend its offer in the compact class with an especially sporty crossover model joining the Astra and the Zafira.

!NEW! Opel at the RETTmobil 2015: Opel Mokka SUV now a Lifesaver

15th exhibition for rescue and mobility: Opel present with wide range of emergency vehicles

Mokka, Insignia, Vivaro and Movano – four cars, four concepts, one goal: to save lives. From May 6 - 8, the automaker will show how powerful series-produced passenger cars and vans can, with the help of certified conversion partners, be converted into efficient emergency vehicles for the fire brigade for example. The Opel stand in Fulda will be located in Hall 5 (stand number 505). Furthermore, Opel’s partner Siebrecht will present disabled transport vehicles of different sizes and in various price categories at their outdoor stand (number 53).

Opel emergency vehicles for fire brigade and DLRG (German Life Saving Society)

The Mokka emergency vehicle with a 100 kW/136 hp 1.6-liter turbocharged engine and all-wheel drive (consumption 4.7-4.5 l/100 km and CO2 of 124-119 g/km in the combined cycle) is latest addition to Opel’s lifesaver family. At RETTmobil, it will be present as an agile utility vehicle for technical accident assistance. The all-wheel drive Mokka, converted by Opel Special Vehicles and Sortimo is a real eye-catcher with its LED special signaling system, the LED front flashers and rear warning lights along with its blazing red foliation. Furthermore, the Mokka has a preliminary set-up for analogue and digital networks including a combined roof antenna. The huge advantage is that the compact, agile and all-terrain Mokka can take technical equipment such as hydraulic shears and spreaders to accident sites that cannot be reached by vans or trucks. The Mokka also carries an emergency backpack so that its crew can also provide vital first aid.

The Insignia Country Tourer fire brigade command vehicle with all-wheel drive, new whisper diesel along with AFL+ (Adaptive Forward Lighting) and AGR-certified (Campaign for Healthier Backs) premium seats and a specific Bott tail-end conversion will accompany the Mokka to Fulda. A Movano crew cab that has been converted into a fire engine by Meinicke Fahrzeugservice completes Opel’s firefighting trio at the RETTmobil. Elsewhere, a Vivaro Combi transformed into a crew car for the DLRG will also be present. Wagner Technik are responsible for converting the nine-seater and fitting it with a special signaling system, LED beacons and working lights, an additional battery along with lashing rails and Euroboxes in the hold.

Opel also offer ADAM, Astra Sports Tourer, Insignia Sports Tourer and Zafira Tourer-based emergency vehicles ex works. 

!NEW! Opel Corsa E: Winter Wonderland Instead of Winter Blunderland

• Beacon in the night: Long range bi-xenon headlamps
• Great visibility no matter what the conditions: Heatable ThermaTec windshield
• Warm in a matter of seconds: Heated steering wheel and front seats
• Safely through the winter: Six tips for driving in ice and snow

Great visibility no matter what the conditions: New Opel Corsa E with heatable ThermaTec windshield

The days are getting shorter and the temperatures are dropping. Driving in the winter months often means unpredictable weather and road conditions, less comfort and an increased safety risk. Opel vehicles counteract this by offering numerous comfort and safety features – not only for medium-sized cars. Even the smaller models such as the new Opel Corsa offer clever solutions. The heatable ThermaTec windshield, the heated exterior mirrors, the interior mirror with automatic dimming and the Bi-Xenon headlamps guarantee outstanding visibility and ensure that the new Corsa is fun to drive no matter what the conditions.

“We ensure that Opel drivers can have a safe and enjoyable journey throughout the year even in smaller and more affordable vehicles such as the new Corsa. Therefore, it offers numerous ‘intelligent’ technologies often only found in vehicles from higher segments so that the driver and passengers will reach their destination safely,” said Peter Christian Küspert, Vice President Sales & Aftersales Opel Group. “The new Corsa is an inviting drive even when it is freezing cold.”

Peephole in the winter ? Not with the new Opel Corsa E !

When it comes to safety visibility is key. When it is cold outside and damp or warm inside the car, the windshield can often fog up resulting in zero visibility. The optional ThermaTec windshield guarantees comprehensive and consistently clear vision. At the touch of a button, it renders condensation meaningless. The heated rear window and the heated electric exterior mirrors guarantee that drivers have unlimited vision of what is happening behind them. The interior mirror with automatic dimming is a further advantage in the dark. As soon as a following vehicle enters the driver’s field of vision, the mirror dims. Elsewhere, the Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running light and cornering light are made for adverse weather conditions with poor visibility. Commuters who often leave in the dark in the morning and do not return until the evening definitely appreciate the advantages of Opel’s ultra-modern lighting technology.

New Opel Corsa E: Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED daytime running light and cornering light

On the road in adverse conditions ? Opel reduces stress and increases comfort.

Numerous chassis and drive technologies also increase safety levels while simultaneously reducing stress when driving in slippery conditions caused by falling leaves or freezing moisture. This includes the Electronic Stability Program (ESPPlus) and Traction Control (TCPlus) with motor and braking intervention along with ABS with Cornering Stability Control (CSC) and Brake Assist (BA), guaranteeing best possible directional stability.

Additional advantage: Just like its predecessor, the new Corsa E comes with heated seats and steering wheel. Within one minute, you will be able to enjoy pleasant warmth no matter how cold it is. The optional auxiliary heating (available for numerous Opel vehicles) with remote control or programmable timer warms the car’s interior, giving the driver the chance to get into a well-tempered vehicle.

Warm in a matter of seconds: New Opel Corsa E offers heated steering wheel and front seats

Ready for the winter? Opels are.

However, the new Corsa E is not the only Opel model that provides drivers with extensive safety features during the dark and cold months. Bi-Xenon headlamps in combination with the safety lighting AFL+ (Adaptive Forward Lighting) are available in many further models such as Astra, Insignia, Mokka or Zafira Tourer. The variable xenon headlamp beam automatically adapts to diverse road and weather conditions with variable light distribution providing increased safety for all road users. An extensive package with up to ten intelligent lighting functions guarantees a relaxed drive in the dark or when visibility is poor.

Furthermore, models such as the Mokka, Insignia and Insignia Country Tourer are equipped with adaptive all-wheel drive. When required the system switches from front-wheel to all-wheel drive in an instant, thus ensuring best possible grip.

4x4 power: Opel Insignia Country Tourer, Opel Insignia OPC and Opel Mokka on tour in the snow-covered mountains.

Opel is prepared, the drivers should be too

Opel is doing its best to ensure that driving in the cold season is as enjoyable as possible by offering numerous safety and comfort features in models ranging from ADAM to Corsa or Zafira Tourer. Nonetheless, the driver still plays an important part:

• Use Anti-freeze: Windshield washer reservoirs, pipes and water jets do not freeze up and vision remains unobstructed when it really matters.
• Check the anti-freeze in the engine cooling system or ask your Opel partner to check it for you. The cooling water needs to do its job in the cold too and can only do so if it remains fluid.
• Winter tires: Winter tires give better grip and shorten the braking distance in cold weather. Summer tires harden in cold weather, thus slipping on the cold surface whereas the special rubber compound used for winter tires offers better grip.
• Snow chains: The chains should only be used when the road surface is covered in snow or on mountainous roads. Mounting should be practiced in advance. Please ensure that the chains match the size of the tires. And: The chains will only help if they are carried on board.
• Anticipate and avoid sudden steering maneuvers: This will keep the car on the road safely.
• Allow for more time: Often, snowy conditions come unexpected. No matter how pretty it looks, the car has to be cleared of snow and ice completely before setting off. That includes the side windows and the roof. Therefore, an emergency braking maneuver will not result in “flying blind” and other drivers will be grateful if snowballs from your car do not hit them. This can also prevent a fine. 

!NEW! Opel Flagship On Course For Success: Already 100,000 Insignia Orders

Strong demand for new Opel Insignia since its premiere last fall

New Opel Insignia four-door notchback: Opel design language with premium flair

New Opel Insignia four-door notchback: Wing-shaped LED tail lights

The new Opel Insignia is in great demand: since its IAA premiere and market launch last fall, Opel has already received 100,000 orders for the new generation of its mid-size model. With even more attractive styling inside and out; strong, ultra-efficient, direct injection engines; state-of-the-art IntelliLink infotainment technology and an extended range of models, the new Insignia has been well received by the car-buying public. In the first four months of this year, it was number one in its segment in Great Britain, Spain and the Netherlands. And in many other markets, including Belgium, Italy, Austria, Switzerland and Norway, Opel’s upgraded flagship has asserted its presence as the number two choice of customers. In Germany, it also occupies second place in its segment among the volume manufacturers – with an impressive growth rate of 46 percent compared to the same period last year.

New Opel Insignia: Completely new infotainment generation with IntelliLink

"In the few months since its presentation, 100,000 car buyers have already ordered the new Opel Insignia – this shows that our new, even more modern and elegant flagship is appealing to both the hearts and minds of our customers," enthused Peter Christian Küspert, Opel Board Member for Sales and GME Vice President Sales and Aftersales, commenting on the success of Opel's mid-size contender.

New Opel Insignia Country Tourer: Adventure-loving Insignia family member 

An outstanding eye-catcher in the extended model range is the Insignia Country Tourer. It complements the role of the Sports Tourer as an elegant family and business station wagon, exuding an air of adventure with striking body paneling, an underride guard, four-wheel drive and high-torque turbo engines. With these qualities, the Country Tourer is already the choice of about five percent of all Insignia customers.

New Opel Insignia Sports Tourer: Elegant family and business station wagon

The new Opel Insignia range offers three propulsion alternatives: gasoline, diesel and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG). The available power spectrum ranges from 88 kW/120 hp up to 239 kW/325 hp for the top OPC sports model. The Insignia 2.0 CDTI is the champion of the range in terms of economy and environmental performance. With a state-of-the-art, 2.0-liter turbo diesel engine, it emits just 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer in output variants of 88 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp. This means that four and five-door models with six-speed manual transmissions consume only 3.7 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers over the combined cycle.

New Opel Insignia liftback: Most streamlined five-door liftback in the world with a drag coefficient of just below 0.25

Featuring prize-winning technology and design, more than 600,000 units of the first Opel Insignia generation have been sold since its launch at the end of 2008, and it has collected more than 50 national and international awards. The new edition of Opel’s flagship is now continuing this prize-winning tradition. At this year's Plus X Awards, the Insignia Country Tourer and Insignia OPC alone each received three plaudits for quality.

New Opel Insignia OPC: The ultimate Opel powerhouse

The new Opel Insignia with a 103 kW/140hp, 1.4 liter gasoline turbo engine, Start/Stop and a low-friction, six-speed manual transmission is available at an entry-level price of 24,545 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). 

!NEW! Opel at the RETTmobil 2014 New Vivaro, Movano and Insignia

• Insignia Country Tourer: Emergency medical/fire brigade command vehicles
• Movano: Fire-fighting vehicle with portable fire pump and disabled transport vehicle
• New Vivaro: Panel van with blue light bar as basis for emergency services use
• Opel rescue data sheets: Online access to vital vehicle information 

Double eye-catcher at the RETTmobil 2014: Opel Insignia Country Tourer as an emergency medical vehicle and a command vehicle for the fire brigade.

Opel Insignia Country Tourer again shows just how versatile it is as a double eye-catcher at the RETTmobil 2014 in the form of an emergency medical vehicle and a command vehicle for the fire brigade. Opel presents the flexibility of its models at the leading European trade show for rescue and mobility in Fulda from May 14 to 16. Next to the Insignia Country Tourer, the new Vivaro will also be on display, modified for the first time with a blue light bar for emergency applications. The Movano is available as a disabled transport vehicle and as a portable fire pump vehicle for the fire department.

Opel Insignia Country Tourer as an emergency medical vehicle and a command vehicle for the fire brigade.

The special use vehicles are built in collaboration with the company’s subsidiary Opel Special Vehicles GmbH (OSV) and certified conversion partners. Company experts are available on all three days of the exhibition to answer questions on individual special equipment and retrofitting options at the Opel stand 505 in Hall 5.

Made by OSV: Insignia Country Tourer as ambulance and firefighting vehicle

Opel Special Vehicles GmbH is responsible for converting the Opel Insignia Country Tourer into an attention-getting emergency medical vehicle. The all-wheel drive vehicles equipped with the powerful BiTurbo diesel engine can quickly and securely get to emergency sites. The vehicle livery in luminous bright red, the blue lettering "AMBULANCE" on the front doors and the hood, two LED front flashing lights as well as two rear warning lights and the retroreflective rear hazard markers clearly identify the flexible station wagon as a special model. In the interior, equipment includes the 230-volt electrical system, ignition override unit, preliminary setup for analog and digital radio as well as accident data storage. Various versions of the special priority vehicle signaling system are available.

Made by OSV: Opel Special Vehicles GmbH is responsible for converting the Opel Insignia Country Tourer into an attention-getting emergency medical vehicle.

But the Opel Insignia Country Tourer is not only ideally equipped for use as an emergency medical vehicle – it also meets all the requirements for use as a fire brigade command vehicle. Visitors to the trade show can view it at the Sortimo International GmbH stand (Hall B, Stand 1906). The red-white-yellow livery and the "FIRE BRIGADE" lettering on the hood and side doors, the prominently displayed emergency number 112, as well as the priority vehicle signaling system on the roof are all visible from afar. The attention-grabbing vehicle design of the two Insignia Country Tourer versions is from the specialized lettering company design 112.

Versatile Opel Insignia Country Tourer: It also meets all the requirements for use as a fire brigade command vehicle.

Coachbuilder variants: New Vivaro and Movano special use vehicles

The new Opel Vivaro is not only suitable for the most diverse transport tasks, it also forms the optimum basis for special use and emergency vehicles. The magma red, all-purpose Opel bestseller shows this in Fulda for the first time in a modified form with blue light bar.

The Opel Movano is distinguished by the same qualities. The company Oberaigner has given the versatile Opel van high-performance, on-demand four-wheel drive that can be activated by simply pushing a button via a panel in the cockpit. The Movano thus offers excellent driving performance even with a heavy payload and is predestined for use in rescue services. A Movano converted to a portable fire pump vehicle by BTG Brandschutztechnik Görlitz GmbH will also be on exhibit at the Opel stand at the RETTmobil. The box body accommodates the special use and emergency equipment. The vehicle also has exterior mirrors with extended arms, step protection at the doors as well as a comfort seat for the driver.

Red thunderbolt: A Movano converted to a portable fire pump vehicle by BTG Brandschutztechnik Görlitz GmbH will also be on exhibit at the Opel stand at the RETTmobil.

The Movano Trabus L3 converted to a disabled transport vehicle by the firm Ambulanz Mobile will also be on show in Fulda. Its equipment includes a linear lift, steps and individual seats. With a seat rail system the Movano offers ample space for up to six large wheelchairs.

Opel rescue data sheets: Vital information at your fingertips

In the event of an accident, it is not only important that rescue services quickly arrive at the scene, but also that they have immediate access to the vehicle information of the car involved. This happens quite simply at the touch of a button: using a normal Smartphone, the information can be called up from around 2,200 rescue data sheets available on the Internet in 25 languages for 87 Opel models from model year 1991 at www.opel-rescuecard.com. Further information, for example on electric or hydrogen-powered vehicles or on the subject of "Accident aid and recovery of high-voltage vehicles" is available on the Opel website www.ifz-berlin.de.

!NEW! Opel Mokka SUV Defends "All-wheel Drive Car of the Year"

• Second consecutive victory: Opel Mokka again wins major readers’ poll
• Already more than 200,000 orders: Trendy SUV popular with buyers

Opel Mokka SUV - All-wheel Drive Car of the Year 2014

The Opel Mokka sub-compact SUV is again the number one readers’ choice in this year’s Auto Bild Allrad awards, retaining its "All-wheel Drive Car of the Year" title in the "Off-road vehicle and SUV up to 25,000 euros" category. 18.7 percent of readers voted for the trendy Opel, putting it clearly ahead of the Skoda Yeti (14.6 percent) and the Nissan Qashqai (12.4 percent). The award ceremony took place on April 10 at Depot 1899 in Frankfurt am Main. Jürgen Keller, Opel’s Executive Director Sales, Marketing & Service Germany, accepted the winner’s prize from Editor-in-chief Bernhard Weinbacher.

Opel Mokka sub-compact SUV is again the number one readers’ choice in this year’s Auto Bild Allrad awards, retaining its "All-wheel Drive Car of the Year" title in the "Off-road vehicle and SUV up to 25,000 euros" category

"We are very proud that our Mokka was able to defend its All-wheel Drive Car of the Year title," said Jürgen Keller. "A readers’ poll is always of very special significance to us. In addition, the readers of Auto Bild Allrad are extremely knowledgeable in the area of off-road vehicles and SUVs, which is why we value their opinion so much."

Jürgen Keller, Opel’s Executive Director Sales, Marketing & Service Germany, with the winner’s prize.

Another winner for the Rüsselsheim carmaker is the Opel Insignia Country Tourer. It successfully asserted itself as a new entrant in the "4x4 Crossover" category against long-established competitors, such as the Volvo XC 70 and the VW Passat Alltrack, and came in third with ten percent of the votes – behind the Audi A6 and A4.

 Opel Insignia Country Tourer 4x4

Opel Mokka SUV – A success story

The Opel Mokka continues to ride a wave of success. In just 18 months since its market launch, the Mokka has attracted a rising tide of more than 200,000 orders, making it a European bestseller.

Opel Mokka 4x4 SUV 

There are many good reasons for this success. The Opel Mokka has modernized the SUV segment by making innovative technologies and features from higher classes available to a broader customer base. These include the AFL+ Adaptive Forward Lighting system, as well as ergonomic seats with the Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) seal of approval and the second generation, integrated FlexFix bicycle carrier – all features which the Opel Mokka introduced to this SUV segment. With a length of 4.28 meters, it offers ample space for five people and an elevated seating position, while fulfilling all everyday requirements. Thanks to its sporty interior and body design, the Opel Mokka is also ideal for the weekend outings of adventurous drivers. 

!NEW! GM CEO Mary Barra visits Opel in Rüsselsheim

• Mary Barra made First overseas trip as GM CEO
• Reinforces GM’s commitment to Opel and additional model for Rüsselsheim
• Joined by new GM President, Dan Ammann, nominated as chairman of the Opel Supervisory Board

GM President Dan Ammann, GM CEO Mary Barra and Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann

Mary Barra made her first overseas trip as GM’s new CEO to Opel headquarters here, where she met with employees, toured the assembly plant and visited the International Technical Development Center (ITDC).

Barra was joined by GM’s new President, Dan Ammann, whom she also announced has been nominated to succeed Steve Girsky as chairman of the Opel Supervisory Board.

“I’m very pleased to have the chance to meet with our employees here,” said Barra, who became GM’s CEO on Jan. 15 this year. “I thought it was very important to reinforce in person GM’s commitment to Opel, its importance to the company and the need to accelerate our progress going forward. I am also pleased to confirm that we will add another model to our Rüsselsheim plant.” For competitive reasons, the company is not in a position to reveal any details at this point of time.

“With Dan Ammann nominated to succeed Steve Girsky as chairman of the Opel Supervisory Board and with KT Neumann leading the Opel team, I’m confident that we can achieve our goal to break-even in Europe by mid-decade,” she added.

Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann, GM CEO Mary Barra and GM President Dan Ammann in front of the new Opel Insignia Country Tourer.

Barra noted that GM is investing €4 billion in Germany and Europe through 2016, which will help bring 23 new products and 13 new engines to market: “We must remain focused on the customer and delivering great, innovative products to the market on a consistent and sustained basis,” she said. “That is how we will win here and all around the world.”

During her visit, Barra toured the Rüsselsheim plant, home to 3,300 employees and where the award-winning Opel Insignia and Astra models are built. She also visited the ITDC, GM’s second largest development center in the world, where more than 6,000 engineers, technicians and designers are working on the latest technologies for future GM vehicles.

GM President Dan Ammann, Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann and GM CEO Mary Barra (from right to left) at the Rüsselsheim assembly plant.

Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann said the Opel team was thrilled to have hosted Barra and Ammann: “We are honored that Mary and Dan chose Opel as the first GM location to visit outside the company’s Detroit headquarters. It reinforced for all of us the importance of Opel to GM and the support we will continue to receive as we drive to return Opel and its products to greatness.”

!NEW! Opel Insignia Country Tourer: Adventurer Now With Front-wheel Drive

• Bold off-road design combined with low consumption at attractive prices
• Premiere at Brussels International Motor Show (January 16^th to 26^th)

Customers benefit from an attractive entry-level price for the Opel Insignia Country Tourer – around 3,000 euros less than with the 4x4 system.

The new Opel Insignia Country Tourer, the model family’s adventurer with bold, dynamic design and top driving performance, is now also available with front-wheel drive. The robust mid-size station wagon can be teamed with the new-generation 125 kW/170 hp 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine or with the 2-liter turbo diesel with 120 kW/163 hp. So Insignia fans who prefer characteristic off-road styling with under-body guards, prominent wheel-arch and lower body cladding together with dual exhaust tailpipes (with the 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo) but don’t necessarily need the 4x4 drive can choose front-wheel drive, thus lowering fuel consumption and CO2 emissions compared to the all-wheel drive version. Customers also benefit from an especially attractive entry-level price of 34,100 euros for the Insignia Country Tourer in Belgium – around 3,000 euros less than with the 4x4 system.

Opel Insignia Country Tourer now also with new 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engine (125 kW/170 hp) 

“With the front-wheel drive Opel Insignia Country Tourer we make our mid-size model even more attractive for customers,” says Peter Christian Küspert, Opel Board Member for Sales. “Our adventurer leaves a lasting impression with its purposeful looks, and with front-wheel drive it now also appeals to Insignia buyers who want typical Country Tourer styling even if most of their driving is in cities and on the autobahn.”

With front-wheel drive, six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop, Opel Insignia Country Tourer 2.0 CDTI consumes just 4.5 liters diesel per 100 km – around 20 percent less than the comparable all-wheel drive version. This not only has a positive impact on fuel costs, it also benefits the environment. CO2 emissions are just 119 g/km, earning the Insignia Country Tourer 2.0 CDTI the best German A+ energy efficiency label.

!NEW! Opel 4x4: Intelligent All-Wheel Drive Systems Deliver Enhanced Safety and Efficiency

Opel Mokka and Opel Insignia Country Tourer offer superior drive concept

Adaptive all-wheel drive systems for increased safety all year round, not just in winter

Opel Insignia OPC with best driving dynamics from 4x4 with electronic limited-slip differential

4x4 power: Opel Insignia Country Tourer, Opel Insignia OPC and Opel Mokka on tour in the snow-covered mountains

It’s time to head for the ski slopes again – and in the ice and snow of winter all-wheel drive systems come into their own. However, this is only part of the story, because an intelligent all-wheel drive system can also ensure increased safety and improved driving dynamics all year round without having to make compromises in terms of everyday suitability. The best examples of this are the intelligent all-wheel drive systems fitted to the Opel Insignia Country Tourer, Opel Insignia OPC and Opel Mokka SUV. They represent the technical pinnacle of over 100 years of all-wheel drive development within the automotive industry. Opel’s all-wheel drive systems are now so sophisticated, they can sense and adapt to changing conditions even before a critical driving situation occurs.

4x4: Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC on downhill stretch

The development of the complex, networked drive systems in today’s Opel models has matched the pace of change seen in the digital information age. For example, at its market launch 22 years ago, the Opel Frontera, a trendsetter in the SUV segment and one of the best-selling off-road vehicles in Europe, still relied on the classic, mechanical on-demand all-wheel drive system. Now its grandchild, the Opel Mokka SUV, controls power distribution on demand with electronic bits and bytes. This, of course, also applies to Opel Insignia 4x4 models led by the Country Tourer. Electronics have become established as a means of ensuring the best-possible distribution of power. In this way, intelligent Opel all-wheel drive technology seamlessly joins safety systems such as ABS and ESP.

Taking driving to another level: Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer racing on an off-piste track

The advantages of having an on-demand control of power distribution are immense in comparison with purely mechanical systems still sometimes used today. The inherent drawbacks of such simple all-wheel drive systems – for example, twisting in the drivetrain, substantially higher fuel consumption and a reduction in driving comfort due to stronger vibrations – are almost completely eliminated by the intelligent all-wheel drive systems in today’s 4x4 Opel models. Opel systems score with a precise, on-demand power distribution which reacts in milliseconds to changing driving situations. This makes them clearly superior to other on-demand all-wheel drive systems which rely on the purely mechanical control of power distribution when wheel slip occurs. This usually happens after a noticeable time delay, which has a corresponding negative impact on driving dynamics and comfort levels.

New Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer on downhill stretch

Opel’s all-wheel drive system has an electronic, multi-disk clutch which is flange-mounted on the rear axle differential. The disks run in an oil bath and their locking effect is seamlessly adjusted in milliseconds by an integrated control module. This solution gives Opel engineers the freedom to tailor specific control strategies which optimally adjust the all-wheel drive system to meet the different requirements of various model lines, even though they share similar hardware.

New Opel Insignia Country Tourer also convinces off-piste in snowy conditions

In addition to technical similarities in the electronic multi-disk clutch, the all-wheel drive systems in the Opel Mokka, Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC also share similarities in complex networking across the vehicles’ CAN bus. Data from numerous sensors is constantly exchanged between the control modules and the Opel all-wheel drive system utilizes the same driving dynamics sensors which feed information to the ABS and ESP systems. Data about yaw rate, steering angle and wheel speeds is evaluated and included in the all-wheel drive control strategy. The system also captures other driving conditions. Comprehensive networking and seamless power distribution, which is virtually delay-free, enable the Opel all-wheel drive system to function with foresight. For example, it reacts immediately to driver steering inputs and engine power measured by the throttle valve sensor, preventing wheel slip or vehicle instability before they occur. Basically, the intelligent Opel all-wheel drive system can be viewed as a form of reverse ESP: while the electronic stability program intervenes through the braking system in critical driving situations to keep the car on course, the electronically-controlled all-wheel drive system ensures ‘preventive’ vehicle stabilization before a critical situation occurs.

Stretching the limits with the Opel Mokka SUV – impressive 4x4 performance on snowy pistes

The differences between the all-wheel drive systems in the Opel Mokka, Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC models are the result of different objectives in line with the specific requirements of each vehicle concept.

All-wheel drive in the Opel Mokka SUV

Opel Mokka SUV with adaptive an all-wheel drive system: Safely on its way even in off-road conditions

Environmental responsibility was a top priority during development of the all-wheel drive system for the Opel Mokka. Hardly surprising, since Opel’s sub-compact SUV has set class standards for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. This development goal was successfully achieved with targeted parameterization of the all-wheel drive system. The Mokka’s system can seamlessly distribute power between the front and rear axle from 100:0 to 50:50, while in normal everyday use it runs as an economical front-wheel drive car. This design enabled engineers to construct very lightweight components necessary for the all-wheel drive system during the Mokka’s development. As a result, the complete all-wheel drive system, including all the necessary axle, drive and transmission components, weighs less than 65 kilograms.

Opel Mokka SUV with efficient all-wheel drive system that automatically adjusts to driving conditions

The all-wheel drive system is activated when the Opel Mokka is stationary to prevent wheel slip at take-off. It also engages unobtrusively in a split second as soon as the driver depresses the clutch pedal. Once up and running, all power is transferred to the front wheels and the all-wheel drive system is only engaged when driving situations require it. As with most SUVs, the Mokka’s all-wheel drive system is supported by Hill Start Assist (HSA) and Hill Descent Control (HDC). Electronic traction control also replaces the function of the axle-differential lock with automatic braking intervention.

All-wheel drive in New Opel Insignia Country Tourer and Opel Insignia OPC

New Opel Insignia Country Tourer: Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive with rear, electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD), seamlessly distributes power from zero to 100 percent between the front and rear axle and between the rear wheels.

When developing the 4x4 variant of the Insignia, Opel engineers focused on optimizing driving dynamics. While the all-wheel drive architecture and its integration with CAN bus data is similar to that of the Opel Mokka, an electronic Limited-Slip Differential (eLSD) has been introduced alongside the multi-disk clutch on the rear axle. This enables power to be distributed transversely, between the rear wheels, as well as longitudinally between the axles. Optimal adaptive driving dynamics are ensured by sporty control logics and the system’s ability to transfer all drive torque to the rear axle. Together with the intelligent limited-slip differential, which also seamlessly distributes power according to the prevailing driving situation, the Opel Insignia 4x4 offers a unique experience which gives the driver best-possible vehicle control. The ESP’s control strategy has also been optimally adapted to suit the all-wheel drive system. As a result, drivers can fully exploit the enhanced driving dynamics of the 4x4 Opel Insignia, especially when 325 hp is available from the powerful OPC version. With Opel’s fast-acting all-wheel drive system, driving safety and driving fun both reach new levels.

New Opel Insignia: Adaptive 4x4 all-wheel drive with rear, electronic limited-slip differential (eLSD).