Exciting Look into the Future: Opel STX Concept and Opel GSE 27FE Celebrate World Premieres at the Paris Motor Show

• Sports Tourer design of tomorrow: Opel CEO Florian Huettl, Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann and Vice President Design Mark Adams present visionary STX Concept

• Epitome of GSE: GSE 27FE Formula E GEN4 race car in the final design

• GSE experience for all: New Opel Corsa GSE and Astra GSE Line in Paris for the first time
• Best future prospects: Four new Opel models by 2030 plus investments of more than one billion euros in Germany

• Unique trade fair appearance: Until October 18, visitors can immerse themselves more deeply in the Opel world of German precision and high performance at booth A42 in hall 4

 

“It is an exciting time for Opel. After the successful launch of the Grandland, Mokka and Frontera, we are on course for growth,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl at Opel press conference of the Paris Motor Show. “We have an outstanding offer for our customers. At the same time, we are investing in our future, with investments of more than one billion euros and four new models by 2030,” announced Huettl.

The vision for the future became very clear in the following minutes: The world premieres, which Huettl unveiled together with Opel Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann and Opel Vice President Design Mark Adams, stand for the next groundbreaking step in German engineering and high performance – the visionary Opel STX Concept and the Opel GSE 27FE Formula E GEN4 racing car.

World premiere 1: Opel STX Concept shows Sports Tourer design of tomorrow

“The Opel Sports Tourer eXperimental Concept, or Opel STX Concept for short, celebrate Sports Tourer history and reimagines this Opel favourite for a new generation,” said Huettl. It combines German engineering, emotional design and intelligent technologies in such a way that drivers and passengers experience the highest level of driving engagement. “It has an even bolder, more confident brand face with a more prominent Opel Vizor and a new light signature,” said Vice President Design Mark Adams. “The STX Concept represents the next ambitious and exciting step forward in Opel design.” 

 

At the same time, the visionary study combines technical and emotional styling with groundbreaking solutions that ensure better aerodynamics and efficiency. The STX Concept is not only a show car that presents modern design with innovative technology ideas, but also anticipates the visionary further development of the Sports Tourer and already carries elements of future Opel models.

World premiere 2: Opel GSE 27FE as the epitome of the GSE world

Just like the latest study from Rüsselsheim, the second Opel world premiere, the Opel GSE 27FE Formula E racing car, is also characterised by German engineering and precision combined with innovative technologies. “GSE is the most thrilling expression of Opel. We bring this spirit to life across three dimensions with Race, Drive and Play,” said Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann.

“Race means nothing less than that the GSE spirit comes to life on the racetrack – since its launch last year, we have achieved great success with the Mokka GSE Rally. Now, we take the ultimate next step – into Formula E,” said Reinermann. The Opel GSE 27FE is the race car for the GEN4 generation of the Formula E World Championship, which begins with the coming season – and it represents the epitome of the Opel GSE performance concept ‘Grand Sport Electric’. The high-performance electric vehicle has permanent all-wheel drive, offers over 800 hp of power, achieves a recuperation power of up to 700 kW and thus raises electric motorsport to a completely new level.

The whole GSE world: New Opel Corsa GSE, Mokka GSE and Astra GSE Line

Reinermann also showed how customers can experience GSE for themselves with the two other GSE pillars ‘Drive’ and ‘Play’. After the introduction of the Opel Mokka GSE last year, the new Opel Corsa GSE celebrated its exhibition premiere in Paris. The hot hatch shines in the characteristic GSE design and offers emotion, excitement and high performance combined with all-electric driving excitement. With 207 kW (281 hp), 345 Newton metres of torque and 5.5 seconds from 0 to 100 km/h, it is the most powerful Corsa to date and accelerates faster than any other current production Opel.

 And those who want to drive an Opel in the GSE design not only fully electrically, but independently of the drive variant, will be able to do so with the new GSE Line. To kick things off, the manufacturer presented the Opel Astra GSE Line in Paris, which will be available from next spring.

But GSE at Opel does not only take place on the race and rally track as well as on the road. “Car culture is no longer limited to the road. It happens online. In communities. And in games. – that's exactly what we mean by 'play',” said Reinermann. The ‘Pit Stop Experience’, developed in cooperation with GIANTX, combines performance, technology and gaming at the Opel booth. Inspired by the Opel Formula E programme, visitors can race on an exclusive digital Trackmania track. In interaction with the motorway architecture of the entire booth Opel is thus creating an appearance that spatially translates the further development and future of the German manufacturer.

 “We are on clear path for growth this year thanks to our great products and with our Formula E team we are taking GSE to the next level. The significant investments represent a clear commitment to Germany as an industrial location. We will introduce four new models by 2030 – including the next generation Opel Astra. And the Opel STX Concept shows a clear vision for the future design of our cars,” summarised Huettl.

Opel STX Concept: Visionary Study from Rüsselsheim Shows the Estate Design of Tomorrow

• New chapter: With the STX Concept, Opel presents a vision for future estate cars at the Paris Motor Show

• Bolder, purer, even more emotional: New Opel Vizor lighting signature with lamella light animations and even more prominent vertical Opel Compass and illuminated emblem plus clean, downward-sloping rear

• Pure efficiency: Intelligent aerodynamic solutions with extendable diffuser elements and alloy wheels in a three-zone design

Opel at the Paris Motor Show – this means premieres that will reveal the wide range of emotional automotive excellence ‘made in Germany’. For example, the new Opel GSE 27FE Formula E racing car will celebrate its world premiere in the French capital, and the new Opel Corsa GSE hot hatch, which is now on sale, will make its exhibition debut. Furthermore, a very special show car is set to turn heads at the ‘Mondial de l'Auto’ from October 12 to 18: the Opel Sports Tourer eXperimental Concept, or Opel STX Concept in short. The name gives a clear indication that the German manufacturer is showing its vision of future estates. The abbreviation ‘ST’ is closely associated with the Sports Tourer models with the Blitz, such as the latest generation Opel Astra Sports Tourer. But the Opel STX Concept is more. It also symbolises the next stage of Opel's design philosophy – even bolder, even purer, even more emotional and even more efficient.

“Our Opel STX Concept reinterprets the estate! With its bold design, the latest concept car from Rüsselsheim reaffirms what we at Opel understand by German engineering paired with visionary design. The STX Concept gives a taste of how exciting and emotional the estate of tomorrow can be – with maximum functionality and efficiency. The study shows characteristic features that will be found in future Opel models and underlines Opel's role as an estate pioneer in Europe,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl.

Future Design: New Opel Vizor even bolder and more confident

The Opel STX Concept is the bold vision of the electric estate of tomorrow. It illustrates Opel’s next design ambition, combining this with German engineering and intelligent technologies in such a way that drivers and passengers experience the highest level of driving pleasure. The latest concept car from Rüsselsheim thus continues Opel's long tradition as an estate pioneer in Europe. The manufacturer was largely responsible for the breakthrough of this type of vehicle in Europe as early as the 1950s: In 1953, Opel introduced the Olympia Rekord Caravan. The Opel Kadett Caravan and many other models up to the latest Opel Astra Sports Tourer followed. All these models always impressed with style-defining design and innovative technologies.

The conviction that forward-looking technology should not remove emotions from the automobile but rather amplify them is at the heart of the Opel STX Concept. The concept car is a modern expression of Opel's engineering excellence, which combines intelligent technology with bold, precise design. The result is an electric car that is as efficient as it is emotional.

What stands out at first glance is the further development of the Opel Vizor. The characteristic brand face now appears even bolder than in its previous iterations. While many electric cars today feature an ultra-slim ‘face’, the Vizor of the Opel STX Concept is higher and more prominent. It thus matches the size of the vehicle and reflects its undeniably German character. In addition, the new lighting signature uses precise vertical slanting lamellas that form the outside boundary of the Vizor but gradually fade more towards the centre. As usual, the illuminated Opel Blitz forms the visible centre of the Opel Compass; the characteristic crease in the bonnet is further emphasised by the sporty, sharp front design.

This motto is also taken up by the rear of the STX Concept: it drops steeply and thus combines the highest practical benefit through the additional space gained in the cargo compartment with modern design. Here, too, the Opel Compass is even more precise than before – with slim, illuminated compass axes and the illuminated OPEL wordmark in the centre. The horizontal taillights on the left and right reflect the lamella look of the front.

Furthermore, the entire surfacing serves as an eye-catcher. Flush, precisely shaped and with a distinctively technical appearance, it emphasises the concept car’s character. One example is the striking C-pillars. Here, the glass light strips protruding from the window line towards the rear – and which continue into the roof of the Opel STX Concept – create exceptional visual accents. Illuminated ‘STX’ lettering on the sides, which taper towards the front, and details such as the geometrically precise and sharply defined cameras on the driver’s and passenger’s sides (replacing the usual wing mirrors) further emphasise the combination of high technical standards and desirable design.

High-speed efficiency: Custom-fit body and intelligent aero solutions

The side view of the Opel STX Concept, shimmering in silver and blue, is dominated by the low, aerodynamic silhouette designed for long-distance efficiency and stability at high speeds on the German Autobahn. The sculpted body with short overhangs and wide flared areas around the wheel arches underline the stretched and at the same time bold lines.

To this end, the Opel STX Concept presents aerodynamic solutions that not only reduce consumption but also increase range, directional stability and driving pleasure. Among other things, the aerodynamically optimised 3-section alloys combined with 285/35 R22 Goodyear tyres contribute to an engaging driving experience.

In addition, the Opel STX Concept has an active aerodynamic system that continuously adapts to the driving situation, using moving elements at the rear to optimise airflow, reduce drag and improve stability. For example, at the right speed, blue-coloured diffusers protrude from under the rear; behind the wheels, vertical bumper elements extend sideways to the rear to support the streamlined stance.

All this helps transfer the performance of the visionary concept car safely to the road. The Opel STX Concept combines an innovative electric architecture with all-wheel drive and a top speed of over 200 km/h. In this way, it proves that efficiency, performance and emotional driving pleasure can go hand in hand in the electric age.

The interior is also designed precisely for this experience. In the future, the designers and engineers will realise an interior here that continues the ‘Painting with Light’ idea of the 2023 Opel Experimental and the 2025 Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo with immersive lighting elements and special lightweight seats, and take it to the next level of development.

The Opel STX Concept is not only a show car that presents groundbreaking design and controlled desirable surfacing with innovative technology ideas. It also anticipates the visionary further development of the estate body style and already contains elements of future Opel models. The characteristic Opel design language is even more sculptural and expressive and integrates the technologies of tomorrow clearly and coherently into the overall picture.

Together with Vice President Marketing Rebecca Reinermann and Vice President Design Mark Adams, Opel CEO Florian Huettl will present these and other highlights with the Blitz to an international audience at the Opel Press Conference, which will take place at the Opel stand A42 in hall 4 at 11.00 CEST on Monday, October 12.

New Opel Astra GSE Line Celebrates Debut at Paris Motor Show 2026

• Dynamic GSE accents: New trim featuring sharper front styling, distinctive alloy wheels and characteristic interior design
• GSE style with free choice of powertrains: Available across the entire range, right up to the future top-of-the-range variant with 206 kW (280 hp)
• From spring 2027: Opel Astra GSE Line kicks things off, with further GSE Line models to follow later in the year

 

The new all-electric everyday sports cars Opel Mokka GSE and Opel Corsa GSE – which has been available to order for just a few days – are wowing the media and the public alike with their performance, precision and highly dynamic design. Consequently, Opel is following up quickly, bringing the GSE experience to other models – with the latest Astra debuting the new trim. The compact class bestseller made in Rüsselsheim will be on display as the Opel Astra GSE Line at the Paris Motor Show for the first time with first images of the newcomer now available.

With the new trim, customers will be able to drive their own car in the distinctive GSE design while retaining a free choice of powertrains. The new GSE Line, which will replace the existing GS trim from spring 2027 and give the Astra an even sharper look, can be combined with battery-electric, plug-in hybrid or hybrid powertrains, as well as conventional internal combustion engines.

“More dynamic, sharper, more attractive – what applies to the new Opel Mokka GSE and Corsa GSE hot hatches is something we want our customers to be able to experience in our other cars as well. At the same time, we want them to have a free choice and be able to drive their preferred sporty model with exactly the powertrain which suits their needs. Visitors of the Paris Motor Show will be able to experience first-hand how this extra sportiness is combined with maximum practicality for everyday use, as demonstrated by the new Opel Astra GSE Line,” said Marc Fetzer, Opel Vice President Current Product.

Consistent strategy: Opel Astra GSE Line enhances high-performance GSE experience

GSE stands for ‘Grand Sport Electric’ and thus for goosebumps, speed and emotions. Opel demonstrates this in motorsport with the Opel Mokka GSE Rally in the ADAC Opel GSE Rally Cup and, very soon, with the new Opel GSE 27FE racing car in Formula E, as well as with the 207 kW (281 hp) all-electric Opel Mokka GSE and Opel Corsa GSE on the road. The latter will also make its motor show debut in Paris.

With the new GSE Line trim, Opel expands its strategy to offer customers even more GSE feeling. While the Opel Astra GSE Line features the same high-quality standard items as the previous GS specification, it has an even more dynamic visual appearance. The further refined Opel Astra front contributes to this at first glance. The front inserts below the Opel Vizor now shine in a specific GSE Line colour design. Added to this is distinctive ‘GSE LINE’ lettering on the bumper. The diamond-cut alloy wheels – available as standard in 17-inch or, on request, in 18-inch – emphasise the highly dynamic appearance.

Opel Astra GSE Line drivers immediately sense the GSE atmosphere the moment they get into their car. The designers have paid attention to even the smallest details: the seats, as well as the steering wheel, door inserts and centre armrest, feature the characteristic bright yellow stitching. The driver controls acceleration and braking via aluminium sports pedals. Optional special sports seats with integrated headrests also ensure optimum support (on Astra, Astra Hybrid and Astra Plug-in Hybrid).

Opel Astra GSE Line customers will in future be able to choose from the compact class model’s full range of powertrains to suit their individual performance requirements. And following the official launch of the Astra GSE Line in spring 2027, Opel will introduce a very special variant with an output of 206 kW (280 hp) 1 and additional highlights later in the year. Further GSE Line models will also follow. Opel will announce details in Paris.

[1] Vehicle, trim level and powertrain not yet available to order.

New Hot Hatch Ready to Impress: Opel Corsa GSE now Available to Order

• Pure electric power: 207 kW (281 hp), 345 Nm of torque, from 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds
• Design sends pulses racing: GSE front and rear, 18-inch wheels, Alcon high-performance brakes, performance seats, yellow seatbelts, performance displays and much more
• Comprehensively equipped: Opel Corsa GSE available from 39,900 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany)

For fans of hot hatches, the wait is over. Because today Opel is opening the order books for the new Opel Corsa GSE. The new high-performance variant of Germany's best-selling small car takes the tradition of hot hatches with the Blitz into the future. All those who want to experience the unmistakable GSE feeling can now order the all-electric Opel Corsa GSE from €39,900 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany).

For just a few thousand euros more than a similarly equipped Opel Corsa Electric, customers will get almost twice as much electric power, plus a complete GSE package that leaves little to be desired: This starts with the typical GSE design, which has many highlights in store both outside and inside. The output of 207 kW (281 hp) is transferred to the road via a specifically tuned sports chassis. In addition, drivers and passengers can expect the finest sporty comfort from the Alcantara performance seats, the extensive infotainment and assistance systems to name but a few. In a nutshell, the new Opel Corsa GSE combines the best of two worlds: emotional sportiness with proven practicality. Following the launch of the Opel Mokka GSE last year, the new Corsa GSE expands the range of battery-electric Opel everyday sports cars and takes the GSE experience to the next level.

From 0 to 100 km/h in 5.5 seconds: No current Opel accelerates faster

The new Opel Corsa GSE promises emotions, excitement and high performance combined with all-electric driving pleasure – and is equipped accordingly. With 207 kW (281 hp) and 345 Newton metres of torque, the newcomer offers just as much electric power as the ‘Golden Steering Wheel’ 2 winning Mokka GSE. But the Corsa GSE flexes its muscles a little more. Because it sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.5 seconds – faster than any other current production Opel! Drivers can push the needle to 180 km/h on a clear German Autobahn. The performance is underlined by an active sports sound developed exclusively for the new Opel Corsa GSE in Rüsselsheim, which accompanies the driving experience depending on acceleration and speed. This makes the performance audible to the driver and passengers.

The sophisticated technology supports exceptional performance, handling stability and direct feedback. For example, the Corsa GSE has front-wheel drive with a Torsen-multi-plate limited-slip differential as well as a lowered sports chassis with specifically designed axles, stabilisers and hydraulic bump stops. 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.

Depending on the track, traffic situation and preference, Corsa GSE drivers can choose from three different drive modes: ‘Sport’ with special ‘racetrack’-optimised calibration for the pure performance feeling, ‘Normal’ for everyday use or ‘Eco’ for the greatest possible efficiency. The new Corsa GSE stores its energy in a 54 kWh lithium-ion battery (51 kWh usable capacity). Up to 374 kilometres (according to WLTP 3) can be covered locally emissions-free with a full battery. And when the newcomer needs recharging, this can be done in around 27 minutes at a public DC fast-charging station 4 (from 20 to 80 per cent of the battery capacity).

Opel Corsa GSE: A design that gives you goosebumps, speed and emotions

However, the new Opel Corsa GSE does not only convey its high-performance claim when the accelerator pedal is pressed – it also does so at first glance. For example, the GSE-specific front apron and the rear are even sharper than in the other model variants. Characteristic black trim and inserts in the lower part of the vehicle and on the wide wheel arches provide a strong contrast to the Kontur White metallic paintwork. The carbon-black roof as well as the black exterior mirror housings and the black rear spoiler reinforce this effect.

With sporty 18-inch wheels – more precisely: Michelin Pilot Sport 4S 215/40 R18 tyres – the new Opel Corsa GSE retains its grip even in high-performance mode. The striking rims in a three-spoke design and the yellow Alcon brake calipers with clearly visible GSE lettering are further eye-catchers. And the characteristic GSE abbreviation is confidently emblazoned on the sides of the vehicle.

Inside, the new Opel Corsa GSE combines traditional hot hatch elements with forward-looking GSE design. The prime example of this are the Alcantara performance seats with fabric inserts in a black, grey and yellow retro chequered pattern. The firm and secure hold is guaranteed by the taut side bolsters and the headrests integrated into the seats, which also bear the GSE logo. Bright yellow belts as well as the door inserts and the centre armrest with yellow stitching form a strong contrast.

High-performance meets everyday life: Extensive standard equipment in sporty style

The driver has everything under control with the Alcantara-covered sports steering wheel; Acceleration and braking commands are given via the aluminium sports pedals. The multi-customisable digital driver information display and the central 10-inch colour touchscreen transmit the necessary information. And for sporty drivers, the GSE-style displays provide performance data, G-force display, acceleration values, battery management data and much more.

For all its sportiness, the new Opel Corsa GSE also demonstrates its everyday qualities: Like every battery-electric Corsa it offers a load volume of 267 to 1,042 litres. Standard equipment details such as the heated seats and steering wheel as well as the 180-degree reversing camera, navigation system, adaptive cruise control and the Keyless Entry & Start system increase comfort and safety. And if Corsa GSE drivers want to power external devices this can be supplied from the vehicle battery thanks to the bidirectional onboard charger (V2L) 5.

The high-performance version of the small car bestseller, which can be ordered now, thus combines emotional sportiness with proven, battery-electric everyday usability. Opel and the new Corsa GSE will also demonstrate this in October at the Paris Motor Show, where the latest production GSE addition will celebrate its trade fair premiere.

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

[3] The stated range was determined using the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning as well as thermal preconditioning.

[4] The charging power / charging time is influenced by several factors and can vary depending on the type and power of the charging station, the outside temperature, the battery temperature, the battery charge and aging status, the vehicle equipment and settings on the vehicle, among other things.

[5] For full V2L functionality, an accessory adapter is required.

Next Generation Opel Astra to be Designed, Engineered and Made in Rüsselsheim

• Exciting newcomer: Next-generation compact class bestseller Astra to be produced at Opel home plant in Rüsselsheim
• At least four new models by 2030
• grEEn-campus Rüsselsheim: New global Opel headquarters and Stellantis Germany home under construction
• More than €1 billion to be invested overall in Germany until 2030

The next generation Opel Astra, based on the new Stellantis STLA ONE platform, will be produced at Opel’s home plant in Rüsselsheim. As communicated by Opel CEO Florian Huettl during the Stellantis Investor Day, the German manufacturer plans to introduce at least four new models by 2030. The newcomers include the next generations of the best-selling Opel Astra and Opel Corsa along with the recently announced new C-SUV in partnership with Leapmotor. Meanwhile, Opel will continue to invest in existing models in its portfolio.

“The investment into the production of the next Astra generation in Rüsselsheim underlines the focus of Stellantis on Germany and the importance of Opel,” said Stellantis Enlarged Europe COO Emanuele Cappellano. “The C-segment, which accounts for approximately 30% of total car sales in Europe, is a substantial part of Stellantis’ European strategy to strengthen the Company’s market coverage in our region, as outlined in our FaSTLAne 2030 strategic plan.”

“The allocation of the next-generation Astra to our plant in Rüsselsheim demonstrates Opel’s commitment to Germany as an industrial location. I am delighted that Rüsselsheim will remain the home of the Astra and be built in the direct vicinity of our new grEEn-campus,” said Opel CEO Florian Huettl. “This investment is a clear sign that together with our social partners we can reach agreements that benefit all stakeholders.”

“Opel and Vauxhall are important assets within Stellantis and fulfill a significant role especially within Europe,” Xavier Chéreau, Chairman of the Opel Board, said during his visit in Rüsselsheim today. “Made in Germany is a well-recognised quality label for customers worldwide and a defining strategic asset for Opel in the Stellantis group. This performance is supported by strong industrial foundations and high-quality social dialogue,” Chéreau added.

The German manufacturer is thus adding to current projects in Germany with total investments in the country to reach more than €1 billion by 2030. Opel and Stellantis Germany are already constructing a new state-of-the-art headquarter building, the grEEn-campus Rüsselsheim. The new global Opel headquarters and Stellantis Germany home will offer state-of-the-art workplaces that are designed for flexible working and collaboration. Sustainable building materials are being used to ensure a good interior atmosphere. The power supply is provided by a photovoltaic system, which is integrated into a green roof. This not only contributes to biodiversity but also ensures a pleasant microclimate and helps the cooling of the building, which is ensured in parallel via a geothermal system close to the ground.

C-segment models have been a staple of Opel’s portfolio for 90 years. The success story that started with the Kadett in 1936 has been seamlessly continued with the current generation Astra. With high-tech solutions such as the Intelli-Lux HD headlights and highly efficient powertrains including battery-electric, plug-in hybrid, hybrid and diesel the Astra – designed, engineered and made in Germany – caters for a broad range of customer needs. In total, around 25 million units of the Kadett and Astra have been sold to date.

Like the future Opel Astra, the next generation Opel Corsa will be based on the new STLA ONE Stellantis platform and take another step toward making electric mobility accessible and even more relevant. The current generation Corsa has been Germany’s best-selling small car for more than five years and continues to lead the way in 2026. In total, more than 15 million units of the iconic Corsa have been sold.

While the Opel Astra and the Corsa represent two established products in the Opel line-up, the all-new C-SUV, announced to be produced in Zaragoza as part of the extension of the partnership with Leapmotor, will complete the coverage of the C-segment alongside the Opel Frontera and the Opel Grandland. The new vehicle will serve as a blueprint for efficient global collaboration: designed and created by Opel in Rüsselsheim and developed by international teams located in Germany and China. Simultaneously, it will enable the German manufacturer to take a major strategic step forward in terms of electrification and scaling in the shortest possible time with sales of the newcomer expected to start as early as 2028.

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

Hidden in Plain Sight: Shark-Spotting in the New Opel Astra

• Secretive sea creatures: Finding sharks in the new Opel Astra requires a keen eye
• Full of character: Compact class bestseller is sharper and more modern than ever
• Iconic idea: Shark tradition at Opel began more than 20 years ago with a boy's brainwave
• For shark fans: Customers will also be able to spot little sharks in future Opel models

With Easter and the traditional egg hunt Opel can offer an exciting alternative activity no matter what the weather – the traditional Opel shark spotting. These secretive sea creatures have been a tradition at Opel for two decades now. To delight fans, the team in Rüsselsheim always comes with new hiding places for the sea dwellers – as is now the case with the new Opel Astra. The compact class bestseller – designed, engineered and built at Opel’s headquarters – not only looks more modern, sharper and more distinctive than ever, but also has a few surprises in store.

The adaptive IntelliLux HD lighting system, featuring over 50,000 elements, is not such a surprise but rather the logical next step in lighting technology. Following its introduction in the top-of-the-range Opel Grandland SUV, it is now being used for the first time in the new Opel Astra, which is already available to order. The improved range of the Opel Astra Electric is also a logical step forward, allowing drivers and passengers to travel up to 454 kilometres (WLTP 2) between charging stops. The more modern appearance is underlined by the sharper design, featuring an even narrower and more precisely styled Opel Vizor. Additionally, both the Vizor and the Blitz are illuminated.

But whilst the new Opel Astra makes an even brighter appearance overall, the little sharks are normally afraid of the light. They feel much more at home beneath the Astra’s surfaces, which are crafted from eco-friendly materials. 

This means that the search for these cartilaginous fish remains exciting in the newcomer. A little hint: it is worth changing one’s perspective between the front seats and turning things around a bit. And in the luggage compartment of the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer, the sharks might just be ‘swimming’ at higher altitudes than expected.

Iconic brainwave: The Opel sharks story began in 2004

But how come that, for the past 20 years now, miniature sharks have been popping up in all kinds of Opel passenger cars and generating such enthusiasm within the community? A brief look back: One Sunday afternoon in 2004, designer Dietmar Finger was at home working on a sketch for the Opel Corsa D which was to be launched two years later. He was designing the ordinary outer panel of the glove box, which is mostly invisible because it is hidden by the closed passenger door. However, when the glove box is opened, this panel must ensure stability – which it does with ribs integrated in the plastic surface. Finger was designing the ribs when his son looked at the sketch and said, “Why don’t you just draw a shark?” “Why not!” thought the designer and gave the ribs their characteristic shape! The next day, he showed the shark profile to Niels Loeb and the then Opel Corsa Chief Designer was immediately sold on the idea. The shark in the glove box went into series production and the ‘Opel sharks story’ began.

Next came the Opel Zafira, where Karim Giordimaina, then in charge of the interior design, hid three sharks in the compact van’s cockpit. Further permanent ‘shark appearances’ followed, first in the Opel ADAM and subsequently in all other car models up to the current generations of the Opel Grandland, Frontera and Mokka as well as the new Astra, where several tiny sea creatures are hidden in various places.

This has created an iconic ritual. Since the mid-2000s, every interior chief designer has made sure that at the end of the development process of a new model they have at least one shark somewhere in the interior. The exact locations always remain secret, even from top management. The fish therefore often stay hidden until the launch, which makes for an interesting search for shark lovers both inside and outside the company.

Consequently, the ‘Opel shark story’ will continue. Thus, in future Opel vehicles, too, the mini predators will be making their rounds, sometimes more, sometimes less hidden. Depending on the model, they may well change their territory in the depths of the interior and bodywork. So it remains exciting for customers to see where and how many sharks they will discover in their new Opel model.

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

[2] The stated range was determined on the basis of the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning as well as thermal preconditioning.

Inspirational Women at Opel and Stellantis: Maike Seeber and Bilyana Stern Manage the Plants in Rüsselsheim and Kaiserslautern

• New Opel Astra ‘made in Germany’: Plant manager Seeber is proud of new model and the teams at Opel’s headquarters
• Dual role: Bilyana Stern leads Kaiserslautern site and press shop in Rüsselsheim
• Cooperative leadership style: Setting the framework, delegating responsibility, motivating teams to find solutions
• International Women’s Day on March 8: Diversity and equality have a long tradition at Opel

March 8 is International Women's Day. However, equality, diversity and inclusion are not only a top priority at Opel and Stellantis on this annual day of celebration. Instead, these principles are a fundamental part of the corporate culture and a prerequisite for the brands’ and companies’ success. This applies at all levels, from top management to the Women's Perspective Panels in development to production. This stated, Maike Seeber and Bilyana Stern hold key roles in the company.

Seeber has been plant manager in Rüsselsheim since last year and is therefore responsible for the production of the new Opel Astra, which celebrated its world premiere at the beginning of 2026 and has been available to order for a few weeks now. Elsewhere, Stern has a dual role: she manages the press shop in Rüsselsheim and, for the past year, has also been in charge of the Kaiserslautern site, Stellantis' largest component plant for numerous Stellantis brands and sites worldwide. The top priority for both plant managers is to ensure quality and competitiveness ‘made in Germany’. To achieve this, they focus on cooperation, empowerment and each employee’s own personal responsibility.

Precision: The interaction of people, processes and technology must work

For Maike Seeber, the Rüsselsheim plant and the new Opel Astra stand for what fascinates her about the automotive industry: the interaction of people, processes and technology – and a high-quality-vehicle that drives off the assembly line as the result. That is why she spends as much time as possible in the production halls. “To experience first-hand how design, technological innovations, industrial feasibility and the spirit of the Rüsselsheim team come together is something very special. This is precision work to the point,” she emphasises.

What is visible on the line also shapes the plant manager’s everyday work. Her schedule is tight, the topics diverse. The focus is on the ramp-up of the new Astra, with classic production topics determining everyday life: requirements for the supply chain, material availability and a wide range of variants – including the drivetrains. Like all Opel models, the Astra is produced as an all-electric car, hybrid and combustion engine vehicle on a single production line. This also means flexibility and specialist training for employees. “Logistics, which used to be much more stable, is particularly challenging,” says Seeber. “Today it is one of the most volatile areas.” Global supply chains, geopolitical risks and unforeseeable events have fundamentally changed the requirements. Logistics has long since ceased to be a pure planning issue, but a continuous coordination task – with a high level of responsibility for all parties involved.

‘Made in Germany’: Ensuring the quality and competitiveness of the sites

Thus, it is all the more reassuring when cooperation between the individual company locations and divisions runs smoothly. Bilyana Stern plays a key role in this, since she is very familiar with the specific requirements of both sites as head of the press shop in Rüsselsheim and plant manager in Kaiserslautern. “From Kaiserslautern, we supply more than 20 Stellantis sites worldwide. Components from here are used in over 30 models from seven Stellantis brands, giving the site a central role within the company. Our priority is to ensure exemplary quality and thus competitiveness – despite high wages and energy costs in Germany. Because ‘made in Germany’ is important to us. A major goal is to create synergies – for example, through centralised functions for the German plants."

Seeber agrees: For her, the sites are perfect examples of what ‘made in Germany’ must stand for today: high-quality, competitive, efficient and technologically leading production under demanding conditions. Thus, the Rüsselsheim plant is flexibly positioned. At the same time, Opel is increasingly focusing on vertical integration. Work that would previously have been carried out by external service providers now takes place directly in the factory. One example of this is the battery shop, where the final assembly of the high-voltage batteries for all-electric vehicles takes place.

“I came to Rüsselsheim to take the opportunity to actively shape the future of production,” the 42-year-old adds. To successfully put this claim into practice, Seeber can rely on more than two decades of leadership and industry experience gained both nationally and internationally, mainly on the supplier side. “I know the supplier side and what is possible and what is not,” she says. “That helps me to make clear decisions even under demanding conditions.”

Leading cooperatively: Setting the framework, strengthening personal responsibility

The same applies to Bilyana Stern. The 36-year-old can also look back on a diverse international career that took her up to Kuala Lumpur and prepared her through various positions at different companies for the challenges at the multinational component plant in Kaiserslautern. “I have learned how important it is to make quick decisions. 70 per cent planning is enough, then it's time to implement. That still shapes my leadership style today: it's better to try things out and learn quickly than to wait for the perfect setup.”

Agility, efficiency and personal responsibility are important to Stern: “For me, it's about putting people first. I work very closely with my teams, on an equal footing. I demand a lot, but I also encourage a lot. I am present, address issues directly and, at the same time, want to motivate people to take bold decisions on their own responsibility that will move the company forward. For me, leadership means letting others grow, inspiring them and taking them with me on the journey.”

This kind of leadership – not simply making decisions over the heads of their employees but acting cooperatively – characterises both Stern and Seeber. The Rüsselsheim plant manager also focuses on empowerment instead of micromanagement, describing it as follows: “I want the teams to develop solutions themselves. My job is to set the framework and not to take every decision myself.” Especially in a complex environment, it is crucial to transfer responsibility and create learning spaces.

Focus on young talents: Diverse, having equal rights, driven by enthusiasm

„The team shines with a lot of commitment, heart and soul and it lives change,” says Seeber, reporting on her daily experiences. With a view to the future, the plant manager emphasises the importance of the next generation being actively trained at all German sites. Young employees contribute new skills – for example in the areas of artificial intelligence, 3D printing or process automation. Today, for example, the 3D printer is used in the plant to produce tools that would have been outsourced in the past. „This makes it all the more important to give young people confidence at an early age and to give them creative freedom,” says Seeber. And Bilyana Stern adds with regard to women: “Many women often have the feeling that ‘I have to be perfect before I apply.’ But that is nonsense. We just need to show more courage!”

Sharper, Bolder, More Modern: New Opel Astra is Ready to Order

• Real highlights: Compact class bestseller for the first time with new Opel Vizor design and illuminated Blitz emblem as well as latest IntelliLux HD lighting technology
• Relaxing journey: Intelli-Seats with ergonomic feature standard in all variants
• Extended range: New Opel Astra Electric with a range of up to 454 kilometres (WLTP 1)
• Freedom of choice: From battery-electric to plug-in hybrid to efficient combustion engine

Stable prices, more benefits: Opel Astra Electric available to order from €37,990, entry-level Opel Astra Hybrid starts at €32,990 (all prices RRP incl. Vat in Germany)

Just a few weeks ago, the new Opel Astra and the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer celebrated their world premiere at the Brussels Motor Show, and now the modernised and further sharpened versions of the compact class bestsellers are available to order. Best of all, the new Opel Astra – which is designed, developed and built at Opel's headquarters in Rüsselsheim – boasts innovative technologies, even more comfort and an even more distinctive appearance, yet the price remains the same. Customers even get more car for their money: Opel Astra Electric is still available from €37,990 and Opel Astra Sports Tourer Electric from €39,490 (all prices RRP incl. VAT in Germany), but equipped with a 58 kWh battery the all-electric car offers more capacity and with up to 454 kilometres (according to WLTP 1) more locally emissions-free range than before. Elsewhere, customers can drive their own Opel Astra starting from €32,990 with the electrified hybrid version with 107 kW (145 hp) system output.

“With its new design, technology and comfort highlights such as the illuminated Opel Blitz on the front and Intelli-Seats as standard even in the entry-level version, we are taking our compact class bestseller to the next level. Furthermore, we are ensuring the affordability of the Opel Astra regardless of the drivetrain by prices remaining the same! We are making our customers an offer they can't refuse,” said Patrick Dinger, Head of Opel Germany.

Appealing in every respect: Opel Astra with illuminated Opel Blitz and sharpened Vizor

Even at first glance, the new Opel Astra appears more modern, sharper and even more distinctive with its refined Opel DNA. The Opel Blitz brand emblem sits centrally in the even narrower and more precisely designed Opel Vizor – and, following its introduction in the top-of-the-range Opel Grandland SUV, it is now illuminated for the first time in the Astra. Furthermore, the front design shows elements of the Opel Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo, bringing the first features of the concept car celebrated at the IAA Mobility last autumn to life in series production. And new rim designs for the 17- and 18-inch alloy wheels are just as eye-catching as the new metallic paints ‘Kontur White’ and ‘Klover Green’.

As a real highlight and unique in the compact class, the award-winning IntelliLux HD light with more than 50,000 elements is now available as an option for Astra drivers, illuminating the road at night to suit each situation at any time. The high-resolution lighting technology not only ensures that other road users are not glared, it also is easy on the eyes of the Opel Astra driver. The system detects traffic signs and dims the LEDs so that the reflection from the signs does not dazzle the driver. IntelliLux HD is already included as standard in the new top-of-the-range ‘Ultimate’ trim.

Feel-good atmosphere: Pure cockpit, precise displays, comfortable Intelli-Seats

The Opel Astra engineers have also further optimised the interior. The measures range from the cockpit and display design to travel comfort with enhanced feel-good factor. This is because the so-called Intelli-Seats are standard in every model variant. They are characterised by a special recess running in the middle of the seat, which reduces pressure on the tailbone. Thus, the patented Intelli-Seat ergonomics feature ensures relaxed driving comfort even on long drives. From the GS trim onwards, the driver's seat also bears the AGR seal of approval (Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. / Campaign for healthy backs), and in the optional ReNewKnit™ version, both the driver's and front passenger’s seats are AGR certified.

At the same time, the cockpit and user interfaces for multimedia infotainment and other features have been made even clearer, more concise and more intuitive. New visualisations and graphics on the screens give the interior a more modern look. In terms of practicality, the driver can now read them even easier than before. And in line with Opel's ‘Greenovation’ approach, numerous resource-saving materials and surface structures are used in the Astra's interior: the steering wheel is completely covered with vegan materials, and the optional seat covers are made of ReNewKnit™, a special mono-material offering a high-quality suede leather look.

Highly efficient drives: Opel Astra Electric with range of up to 454 kilometres 

Conserving resources was also a key focus in the further development of the electrified drive portfolio. The 115 kW (156 hp) Opel Astra Electric with a 58 kWh battery now enables a locally emissions-free range of up to 454 kilometres (WLTP 1) – allowing Astra Electric drivers to travel around 35 kilometres further than before between charging stops.

Also new and extremely practical: The all-electric Opel Astra offers V2L – Vehicle to Load – for the first time and thus the possibility of charging external devices such as e-bikes or the like at the holiday destination without having to rely on other power sources. And to make the switch to electromobility even more attractive, customers also benefit from numerous advantages of the Opel ‘Electric All In’3 programme when buying a new Opel Astra Electric.

Those who want to travel in the new Opel Astra in a highly efficient but partially electrified manner can choose between a hybrid variant with 107 kW (145 hp) starting at €32,990 or a plug-in hybrid with 144 kW (196 hp) system output starting at €38,460. Priced from €34,640, the 96 kW (130 hp) 1.5-litre diesel rounds off the broad drive portfolio, which is designed to meet every need.

All this stated, Opel Astra customers can continue to rely on the proven strengths of the compact class bestseller. Depending on the variant, up to 1,339 litres of luggage can fit into the boot of the hatchback with the seats folded down. Opel Astra Sports Tourer offers a load volume of up to a maximum of 1,634 litres. In addition, the rear seat backrest in the compact-class estate can be flexibly folded down in a 40:20:40 ratio.

[1] The stated range was determined on the basis of the WLTP test procedures (Regulation (EC) No. 715/2007 and Regulation (EU) No. 2017/1151). The actual range may vary under everyday conditions and depends on various factors, in particular personal driving style, route conditions, outside temperature, use of heating and air conditioning as well as thermal preconditioning.

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

[3] Offer for private customers when purchasing a fully electric passenger car from participating Opel partners in Germany by December 31, 2025.