!NEW! Great Tradition: Techno Classica under the spell of the Opel GT

• Hall of fame: Opel presents the GT legend at Techno Classica
• Essen-premiere: Geneva show-star Opel GT Concept makes German debut
• Highly tuned display: Famous GT conversions from Conrero, Gerent and Irmscher

Still working that magic: Alongside the original 1968 Opel GT production model, the futuristic Opel GT Concept makes its first appearance in Germany at this year’s Techno Classica.

The legendary Opel GT weaves its magic again at this year’s Techno Classica in Essen (April 6-10). Alongside the original GT sports car of the late nineteen-sixties and seventies, the futuristic GT Concept – the star of this year’s Geneva International Motor Show – will celebrate its German public debut.

The legend began in 1965 when the Opel Experimental GT design study became the shooting star of that year’s Frankfurt International Motor Show. Designer Erhard Schnell’s vision of a sleek, uncompromising yet affordable sports car received such an enthusiastic reception that Opel decided to put it into production. Three years later and based on proven Kadett B technology, the GT hit the market. The rest, as they say, is history.

Back then the Kadett was the touring car to beat in motorsport, and the tuning community was eager to lay its hands on the new sports car built from affordable mass-produced components. At the Techno Classica Opel will therefore present – in addition to a classic production-GT in red – three conversions from tuners Conrero, Gerent and Irmscher.

Six-pack: At this year’s Techno Classica the futuristic Opel GT Concept will celebrate its German public debut alongside the original Experimental GT study, the production GT and three conversions from tuners Conrero, Gerent and Irmscher

In its heyday the Gerent GT in “Group 4 Appendix J” specification was a frequent contender for 2.0 liter class victories, while the example from the Italian Conrero racing team was the hero of the 1971 Targa Florio, where it finished ninth overall. Thanks to the ingenuity and race-craft of Conrero Squadra Corse, the Opel GT not only earned the respect of its 2.0 liter classmates – mostly Porsche 911 and 914/6 – it also managed to beat them. The Opel GT from Irmscher is an immaculate restoration.

The GT hall of fame in Essen will be completed by the Opel GT Concept. The avant-garde yet purist sports car renounces everything that disturbs the pure form. The GT Concept has no door handles or exterior door mirrors, and no superfluous decorative elements. It is a dynamic driving machine as symbolized by the typical sports car proportions, with a long bonnet and ultra-short overhangs, and the bold red signature line that graphically splits the vehicle body horizontally. The absence of a trunk lid, the intriguing and innovative door design, the central dual exhaust, the looks of the steering wheel and of course, the name all refer to the original GT. However, apart from striking red tires that also adorned the equally avant-garde Motoclub 500 Opel motorbike of 1928, the GT Concept does not mime its ancestor. Instead, without nostalgia or retro-design, the GT Concept re-invents the innovative, daring and exciting spirit of the original, opening a new chapter in the GT-legend.

!NEW! Stars at the Essen Motor Show: Opel ADAM R2 and Monza Concept

• Trade show motto “For Drivers and Dreams“: Opel makes drivers‘ dreams come true
• ADAM R2 public debut: Opel ignites next rocket in Rallye sport

New Opel ADAM R2

From November 30 to December 8 Opel will make drivers’ dreams come true at the Essen Motor Show in line with the motto, “For Drivers and Dreams“. Exciting highlights on Stand A120 in Hall 3.0 include the Opel Monza Concept and – seen for the first time at a German show – the Rallye ADAM R2 and two further sporty Germany-premieres.

New Opel Monza Concept 

“The Essen Motor Show gets all horsepower lovers emotional – just like the Opel brand,” says Opel Chief Marketing Officer Tina Müller. “And with our Monza Concept and the Rallye ADAM R2 we are showing what we have to offer. We are in direct contact with our fans here, which is why the motorsport and tuning trade show is so important for us.”

New Opel Monza Concept at the Essen Motor Show 2013

Opel fires off the next salvo in its motorsport activities with the characteristic ADAM Rallye R2 version. This small, around 190 hp powerhouse will compete on the international stage from the beginning of next year, building on Opel’s extremely successful first rallye season. Outside motorsport, the Monza Concept represents the future of the brand by conveying lots of emotion. This visionary study is now given its second public showing following its IAA premiere. With athletic lightness, high-tech projection technology and pure efficiency, it shows what drivers can expect from Opel in the coming years.

Much to see: Opel presents sensational highlights of the motorsport and series-program at the Essen Motor Show 2013.

In addition, car, tuning and motorsport fans can get all the latest information on the newest Opel series production models by visiting the stand. Different versions of the ADAM individualization champion will be on display, together with the dynamic, compact Mokka SUV and the new Insignia Country Tourer adventurer. Top-of-the-line, high performance models are OPC versions of the Corsa, Astra and Insignia. Fans can get right up close to their sports idols in Essen: Numerous Opel partners from the worlds of football and motor sport will visit the Opel stand on those days on which it is open to the public.

Sporty peak performance: New Opel Insignia OPC with reworked chassis.

The Essen Motor Show is held from November 30 to December 8 and is open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On weekends, the motorsport show opens at 9 a.m.

!NEW! Opel back at the Shanghai Motor Show: Insignia ST, Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer MPV

Opel Insignia ST

Three models, arriving in the Chinese market this year, are at the heart of the Opel exhibition space at the Shanghai Motor Show (April 20 – 29). After an absence of five years, Opel is back at China’s main Motor Show and presenting the Insignia ST (Sports Tourer), Astra GTC and Zafira Tourer. Also on display is the Opel Antara mid-range SUV, todays Opel’s best-selling model in China.

Opel Astra GTC

“The three new Opel entries will broaden the brand’s product lineup in China to help satisfy the increasingly diverse demands of Chinese vehicle buyers. They embody Opel’s proud heritage of German engineering and technology excellence. With these award-winning models we are making a highly attractive offer to our Chinese customers in three more different market segments. ”, said Jürgen Keller, Director International Operations, Adam Opel AG.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

The new models represent three types of vehicles, becoming more and more popular among China’s growing younger generation: station wagons, MPV’s and coupes. “They tend to seek out distinctive and fresh products to enrich their lifestyles and set them apart. They demand high-quality details and stylish character in the things they buy. Opel products are well suited to meet the demands of these younger consumers”, said Keller. The Insignia ST will go on sale at all Opel dealerships across China shortly after the Shanghai Motor Show. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC will go on sale in the second half of 2013. Last year, Opel sold about 4,500 cars in China with 22 dealers.

Opel Antara SUV

Opel’s activities on the Chinese market are part of an ongoing export offensive. In the past 24 months, the brand has successfully entered markets as Israel, Singapore, Chile, Australia and the United Arab Emirates. Opel will continue to look for export opportunities, assuming it makes business sense.

General Motors and its joint ventures will display more than 50 different vehicle models at Auto Shanghai 2013. The products range from small cars to luxury passenger vehicles to light-duty trucks from the Baojun, Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Jiefang, Opel and Wuling brands. GM has 12 joint ventures, two wholly owned foreign enterprises and more than 55,000 employees in China. GM and its joint ventures offer the broadest lineup of vehicles and brands among automakers in China. In 2012, GM sold more than 2.8 million vehicles in China.

!NEW! Opel Brings Three New Models to China

New Opel range in China

Opel unveiled its new brand positioning in China this evening as it introduced three new models during Opel Brand Night at the Beijing Olympic Exhibition Hall SAVOR Center. Opel will begin offering the Insignia Sports Tourer (ST) station wagon, Zafira Tourer MPV and Astra GTC coupe in China later this year.

On photo from left: Opal Liu, Product Planning Manager, GM China Opel Operations; Chin Lim Ong, Director, Vehicle Sales, Service and Marketing, GM China; Cynthia Chen, Director, GM China Opel Operations

“Opel is pleased to show the people of China the humanity, spirit, vitality and environmental responsibility of GM’s German brand,” said Chen Wenxin, Director of GM China Opel Operations. “By expanding our product offerings, Opel aims to provide a wider range of driving choices to help local consumers enjoy a comfortable lifestyle.”

New Zafira Tourer MPV, Insignia ST and Astra GTC on OPEL Brand Night

The new models represent three of the most popular types of vehicles in China: station wagon, MPV and coupes. They complement the mid-range Opel SUV, the Antara, which is currently sold in China. The price of the Insignia ST will be announced next month at Auto Shanghai 2013 and the model will go on sale at all major Opel dealerships across China shortly thereafter. The Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC will go on sale in the second half of 2013 with pricing to be announced closer to sale.

China’s growing younger generation tends to seek out distinctive and fresh products to enrich their lifestyles and set them apart. They demand high-quality details and stylish character in the things they buy. Opel products are well suited to meet the demands of these younger consumers, due to their German engineering, innovative brand spirit and the company’s environmental consciousness.

Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (ST)

The Opel Insignia Sports Tourer (ST) station wagon has exciting styling and powerful performance that turns heads whether zipping through city streets or cruising in the countryside. Its interior is characterized by a practical spacious design and cutting-edge technology.

The Insignia ST is aerodynamic, yet its full-bodied extended-wheel design makes it nearly twice the size of a coupe and gives it a very powerful look. The contours along the sides of the car give it a sculpted appearance. A three-dimensional center line design runs from the front to the back, mirroring classic Opel styling cues. The Insignia ST has a large dramatic cabin, supple leather seats and nickel-titanium finishes wrapped in soft materials, all which reflect its sporty spirit. 

The ECOTEC 2.0 liter turbocharged direct-fuel-injection engine in the Insignia ST has the best power per liter performance in its class at 81 kW/L. Its maximum power is 162 kW, while its peak torque is 350 Nm, and it accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in only 8.1 seconds. Its six-speed automatic transmission is the perfect partner for the engine. While guaranteeing smooth and accurate shifting with low noise, it also effectively lowers fuel consumption for overall fuel efficiency of 9.6 liters per 100 km.

The smart FlexRide system significantly enhances performance and control. The driver can switch between the three driving modes of "normal," "sport" and "tour" according to the driving experience desired. The Insignia ST can also handle a variety of road surfaces thanks to its adaptive 4X4 system.

The Insignia ST has the most advanced extra-long wheelbase in its class. Its reconfigurable interior space, storage areas and luggage rack provide a range of options for taking trips and transporting cargo. Many convenient functions are provided as well, such as a wide-view electric sunroof, ergonomic seats, a smart parking guidance system and Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) Bi-Xenon headlamps.

Opel Zafira Tourer MPV

Combining a modern design with the interior space of an MPV, the Opel Zafira Tourer has a dynamic look, responsive handling and advanced technologies to meet the varying demands of driving enthusiasts as well as those looking for an ideal family vehicle.

The distinctive front end is defined by bold “boomerang” graphics in the lighting units that sweep from the headlights to the fog lamps. Together with the iconic Opel center crease on the hood and strong trapezoidal grille, this creates a dynamic, progressive look that is unexpected for a vehicle in this segment. The panoramic windshield seamlessly flows into a generous wide-view glass sunroof, creating a bright and airy atmosphere for occupants.

Another distinctive feature of the Opel Zafira Tourer is the Flex7 seating system. It provides first-class comfort and the unique feeling of travelling in a “lounge on wheels” by maximizing interior space and ergonomics. The cargo volume is 1,860 liters with all seats folded down, making the Zafira Tourer ideal for a business trip or extended vacation.

The Zafira Tourer also has more than 30 storage compartments, including the multi-functional FlexRail center console. The console comes with a large storage box as well as cupholders that slide on aluminum rails to the desired position, enabling flexible use of the generous storage space between the front seats.

Opel Astra GTC Coupe

The Opel Astra GTC is a sporty compact coupe with a striking design, dynamic performance, and attention to details that make driving pleasurable.

The most prominent feature of the Astra GTC’s appearance is its large panoramic windshield. It melts into the A-pillar and extends seamlessly from the hood to the roof back to the B-pillar. With no cross-member to spoil the view, it offers the driver and passengers a unique experience and a completely new sense of space and visibility with an almost unlimited field of vision, similar to the view from a jet’s cockpit.

The HiPerStrut front suspension system reduces the amount of camber change on the Astra GTC’s front wheels during cornering, improving grip and reducing torque steer. Steering feel is enhanced through a reduction in the steering system’s friction levels. The result is improved handling and more direct steering response, which sports car drivers prefer.

Designers paid great attention to the interior design details and finishes. The Astra GTC’s cockpit combines sculptured shapes and dynamic lines. Its distinct sporty character is enhanced by new, high-quality fabrics, fresh colors and materials on both trim levels. In addition, its multi-functional steering wheel, storage box at the left side beneath the wheel, adjustable armrest and center console give it daily-use functionality.

Opel Astra GTC offers comfortable seating for five adults with a flexible luggage compartment. Front seats offer the widest range of adjustments available in the segment and are ergonomically enhanced with eight-way adjustments.  The vehicle’s optional four-way lumbar and upper leg extension adjustments are certified by the independent back health experts from AGR (Aktion Gesunder Rücken - Action for Healthy Backs).

Opel Antara SUV

The Opel Antara has been offered in China since 2008.  This mid-range SUV features a unique exterior design, dynamic power and a functional interior that showcase its crossover features.

The Antara inherits Opel’s sporty DNA plus an off-road capability. It has a 2,707-mm wheelbase and a width of 1,850 mm, ensuring a roomy ride. It also has more than 20 storage spaces and flexible seats that can be folded down at a 60:40 ratio to maximize interior space for both the driver and passengers. 

The Antara is powered by a 2.4 liter ECOTEC aluminum four-cylinder D-VVT engine with dual-overhead camshafts and 16 valves. The gasoline engine delivers 123 kW/167 horsepower and 230 Nm/4,600 rpm for sustainable power. It also comes with an Active Select^® six-speed automatic transmission and the ITCC adaptive 4X4 system. As a result, the Antara has exceptional power, handling and relatively low fuel consumption. In addition, Opel has improved the Antara’s safety performance with the addition of a Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), Hill Start Assist (HSA) and the Descent Control System (DCS).

New Opel ADAM – Chic, urban freedom on wheels

• FlexFix bike carrier exclusive to Opel re-invents urban mobility
• Customized, combined car and bike mobility made cool and easy
  
  
  
   When the ADAM celebrates its world premiere at the Paris Motor Show (“Mondial de l’Automobile”, September 29 to October 14, 2012), Opel’s new chic, small car, will reveal one of its unique sides that makes urban mobility cooler and easier than ever. Visitors to the Opel stand will discover its optional, fully integrated FlexFix bike carrier. This clever device is exclusive to Opel and gives ADAM owners the ability to engage in modern urban mobility, either at the wheel of their car or on the saddle of their bike. The FlexFix bike carrier helps to make busy urban life even more stress-free for the ADAM owner. It can be used in a spontaneous way, entirely according to one’s taste, the weather, traffic conditions and the environment. 
  
  
  
  
  
  The FlexFix bike carrier is integrated in the rear bumper and is therefore always available. It is adjusted by hand and is therefore very easy to use, without any tools or additional devices. When it is not in use it disappears almost invisibly like a drawer in the rear bumper. With the Opel ADAM the lockable system can take a bike weighing up to 30 kilograms so that even e-bikes can be transported. An optional clip-on adaptor ensures that a second bike weighing up to 20 kilograms can be carried. In that sense FlexFix becomes a flexible mobility solution that can be shared by two people.
  
  
  Thanks to the low loading height of the carrier, the bike can be easily attached to the stable and user-friendly holders inside the rails at the rear. This way the task of securing the bike before transport is ergonomic and easy on the spine, in contrast to roof racks where one must lift the bicycle high over the head. Even when fully loaded, FlexFix can be tilted in such a way that the tailgate of the ADAM can still be opened, allowing easy access to the trunk. In addition, FlexFix can be combined with a park assist system preventing from dents and scratches while parking.
  
  
  
  
  
  With the FlexFix system, those who fancy a quick bike ride will be able to do so everywhere and anytime, and not only in urban areas, but also in the countryside at the week-end. This is yet another example of the almost limitless customization options of the new Opel ADAM and the personalized lifestyle it creates. To tailor ADAM to one’s personal tastes, there are three trim worlds to choose from, ADAM JAM, ADAM GLAM and ADAM SLAM. In addition, customers can choose from many exterior and interior colors, decors and various headliners, as well as other premium inspired distinctive design elements. Sales of the new Opel ADAM will start when it has its world premiere in Paris, and the car will arrive at the dealer showrooms starting in early 2013.
  
  
  The Opel FlexFix bike carrier system is already available in various versions across the Opel model range. Opel is still the only car maker that offers such a fully integrated system.
  
  

New Opel ADAM Conquers the Capital of Fashion - World Premiere in Paris

• ADAM and its unique wealth of personalization at the 2012 Paris Motor Show
• Broad ADAM collection on display represents virtually unlimited customization
• Car configurator goes live in several markets during show with start of orders
  
  
  

  
  Opel has chosen Paris, the capital of fashion, for the world premiere of the all new ADAM. At the “Mondial de l’Automobile” (September 29 to October 14, 2012), the fashionable ADAM’s virtually unlimited potential for customization will be shown live and in public for the first time. A broad collection of different ADAM models that represent just some of the many trim, décor, wheel and uniquely personalized combinations will be shown to visitors at the Opel booth in the Hall 5.2 (stand number 501).
  
  
  More than 1.5 million visitors are expected at the “Mondial de l’Automobile”, the most popular motor show in the world, and virtually everyone will be able to create their very own unique, personalized ADAM based on the huge number of combination possibilities. And those who cannot make it to Paris will have the chance to customize their own Opel ADAM at home, by using the new internet based configurator that will be launched in several markets on the day of its world premiere on the website www.opel.com. At the same time sales prices will be announced and order books opened.
  
  
  

  Interactive displays will be set up at various points across the 2,014 m² area of the Opel stand, allowing visitors to explore all the customization possibilities including ADAM’s new “My Media” onboard infotainment system: “My Media” integrates the owner’s smartphone in the car and thereby makes internet based applications available in the cabin. The ADAM is the only car in its segment with such a system that offers smartphone connectivity for both, Apple iOS software and Android operating systems. 
   
  
  
  
  
  Measuring almost 3.70 meters in length, Opel’s new, chic and agile car is perfect for urban environments. Unlike other rivals, ADAM bucks the trend of retro based design with a modern and bold look. Its striking and unique “Floating” Roof which is visually disconnected from the body allows a perfect execution of a two tone color combination.
  Inside the cabin, the Opel ADAM offers seating for four people who will benefit from a premium inspired atmosphere and a high degree of roominess unusual for a small car.
  
  
  

  Visitors at the “Mondial de l’Automobile” will see for themselves how ADAM innovates and introduces a totally new trim approach. Rather than having the well known trim hierarchies, the Opel ADAM offers the possibility to choose from three different highly individualized trim moods or worlds: JAM is unconventional, fashionable and colorful, GLAM offers a more elegant, refined and sophisticated setting and SLAM appeals to those with energetic and sporty attitudes.
  
  
  The Opel ADAM will initially be offered with three efficient gasoline engines (1.2 l 51kW/70 hp, 1.4 l 64 kW/87 hp and 1.4 l 74/100 hp). All powertrains are available with an ecoFLEX technology pack including fuel saving Start/Stop technology.

!NEW! Irmscher Insignia Cross Four / Opel Insignia Country Tourer

Rumored All-Road version of Opel Insignia Sports Tourer. At many sites, these official looking images presents as the Opel Irmscher Insignia Cross Four. The VW Passat Alltrack and Peugeot 508 RXH rival is equipped with big protective chassis covers and also with plastic forms on bumpers. FlexRide chassis should be height adjustable. For this All-Road vesion are possible two engines - 2.0 CDTI 118 kW/160hp or 2.0 Bi-Turbo CDTI 143 kW/195hp.

Irmscher Insignia ST Cross Four LIVE at Geneva 2012

Irmscher Insignia ST Cross Four

15.4. 2013 UPDATE: Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann today confirm in interview for german magazine Bild new All-road version of Opel Insignia Sports Tourer 4x4 called Country Tourer.  New All-road version will be revealed this year with upcoming Opel Insignia  facelift.

Read full article here: http://www.bild.de/regional/frankfurt/duesseldorf/so-staerken-wir-ruesselsheim-30001844.bild.html

30.6. 2013 UPDATE: First official teaser of the new Opel Insignia Country Tourer.