!NEW! Opel ADAM R2: New Challenge on the Emerald Isle

• Second ERC Junior event for ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team in Ireland
• Emil Bergkvist arrives as leader of FIA ERC Junior category
• Marijan Griebel counting on Opel ADAM R2’s fine asphalt abilities 

New challenge: Swede Emil Bergkvist proved to be unbeatable on snow but how will he and his ADAM R2 fare on the asphalt roads in Ireland ?

Highly motivated and full of confidence, the ADAC Opel Rallye Team is heading to the second round of the FIA ERC Junior, the high speed Circuit of Ireland Rally, on April 2 – 4, 2015. The stiff competition is up against the Opel ADAM R2’s outstanding qualities on asphalt, and a team buoyed by Swede Emil Bergkvist (20) and co-driver Joakim Sjöberg’s (29) superb victory in Latvia last month, the first ERC Junior round of the year.

Upbeat: Swede Emil Bergkvist and co-driver Joakim Sjöberg currently lead the FIA ERC Junior after their win in Latvia last month. 

Despite his success, the Opel works driver from Torsåker, now leading the ERC Junior rankings, is staying cool, calm and collected. “Even after our win in Latvia, my expectations are exactly the same as at the beginning of the season,” says Bergkvist. “I know that I still have a lot to learn, especially on asphalt. So in light of all the strong opposition in ERC Junior, the Circuit of Ireland will be a new and big challenge. At the same time, the ADAM R2 and the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team have proven their potential to win rallyes at this incredibly high level. So I have a good feeling about Ireland, and its close, fast stages will be tons of fun!”

Redemption: Marijan Griebel and co-driver Stefan Clemens hope to make up for their unlucky start to the season with an improved display in Ireland

Bergkvist’s German team colleagues, Marijan Griebel (25, from Hahnweiler) and co-driver Stefan Clemens (28, from Weiskirchen), are also raring to go and keen to make up for an unfortunate end to their run in Latvia. Griebel: “I’m only familiar with the rallye in Ireland from on-board videos and TV footage, but I know that narrow roads and lots of jumps await us. The stages are unique and challenging, and will for sure be great to drive. I have no doubt the competition will again be incredibly tough. But as I prefer asphalt surfaces, and the ADAM R2 is evidently well suited for such conditions, I hope that Stefan and I will be among those to be reckoned with in Ireland.“

The competition at the event, part of the FIA ERC and held around Northern Ireland’s capital city Belfast, is once again top-notch. A total of 22 R2 cars from the RC4 category, including 19 teams registered in FIA ERC Junior, will tackle 18 extremely demanding asphalt stages totaling around 215 kilometers in length. Donegall Square in Belfast will be the site of the Circuit of Ireland Rally’s official starting ceremonies on Thursday evening. The first day of competition on Friday comprises eight stages, to be followed by another 10 on the second day.

Fans can keep up with what’s happening at the event through live services provided by Opel Motorsport and FIA by clicking on the button on the homepage of www.opel-motorsport.com, or by going to the FIA website: www.fiaerc.com/events/live/id/28.

Circuit of Ireland TV Schedule:

Thursday, 2 April

23:30               Eurosport                    Preview reports

Friday, 3 April

23:00               Eurosport                    Highlights Day 1

Saturday, 4 April

08:00               Eurosport                    Highlights Day 1 (repeat)

23:15               Eurosport                    Highlights Day 2

Sunday, 5 April

08:00               Eurosport                    Highlights Day 2 (repeat)

Tuesday, 7 April

23:00               Eurosport                    Inside ERC – The Magazine

!NEW! Opel and ADAC Extend Existing Partnership by Three Years

• ADAC Opel Rallye Cup to be held until end of 2018
• Promotion of talent in the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team systematically continued

Outstanding performances: Opel ADAM R2 has been impressive throughout the season

Opel and ADAC have already decided to continue their commitment to promoting young rallye drivers in Germany. The two companies agreed to extend their existing partnership by a further three years until the end of 2018, despite the current agreement being valid until the end of 2015. Therefore, the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup will be held until the end of 2018, giving all participants planning security. The ambitious and clear goal of the partners consists of two key elements. On the one hand, the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup needs to maintain and strengthen its position as the quantitative and qualitative strongest rallye series for talented drivers in Europe. On the other hand, the idea is to help the most talented juniors find their way into the European rallye elite via the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team.

Shooting stars: Marijan Griebel and Fabian Kreim registered all eight possible wins in their division in the Opel ADAM R2

“Motorsport is in our genes. The contract extension will prolong the concept for promoting talent with our partner ADAC. It has already proved to be coherent and efficient,” said Tina Müller, Vice President & CMO Opel Group. The Opel ADAM R2, that is currently used by the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team and competes in several national championships, has shown that it can hold its own against strong international competition. “We are proud and happy with the development of our Junior Team and will systematically continue this development,” added Müller.

Success rewarded: Opel will continue their backing of the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team

“The ADAC Opel Rallye Cup is a success story and the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team has fulfilled all expectations. Continuing our partnership with Opel and together promoting talents in German rallye sport is the logical step. We are delighted to have a partner in Opel that shares our philosophy for the promotion of young talents,” agreed ADAC Sport President Hermann Tomczyk.

The ADAC Opel Rallye Cup will be fine-tuned for its third edition. In general, the 2013 rules will apply. All participants, regardless of their age, will compete for the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup 2015, giving both juniors and seniors the chance of winning prize money. In total, around €120,000 will be up for grabs. The prize money will be increased from €40,000 to €60,000 per season. Furthermore, drivers over the age of 27 (seniors) will also have the opportunity to purchase a new Cup-ADAM for the preferential price of €24,900 (excluding VAT). In addition, the best drivers under 27 will compete for an additional season prize money of €60,000 in total and have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to qualify for a place in the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team.

The  ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team will also be continued until 2018. Based on performances at the ADAC 3 City Rallye, a panel will select and announce the final driver on Saturday (October 25, 2014). The respective driver will compete in the 2015 ADAC Rallye Masters and selected international events.

!NEW! Opel at the ADAC Rallye Deutschland: New Dimensions

• Season highlight for ADAC Opel Rallye Cup at German WRC round
• ADAM teams to complete two scoring runs at ADAC Rallye Deutschland
• Tough competition for ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team with works ADAM R2

Rallye Deutschland: The three-day event will cover a total of 1,227 km, including 326 km of timed stages

The ADAC Rallye Deutschland from August 21 – 24 is a journey into a new dimension for most of the teams competing in this season’s ADAC Opel Rallye Cup. This prestigious event is also a round in the FIA World Rallye Championship and the Opel teams will contest all 18 stages and two complete scoring runs, which will present the young drivers with a very special challenge due to the sheer scale of the event.  

This year’s Rallye Deutschland will be based at Porta Nigra in Trier, instead of Cologne. The teams face an exciting challenge, which will start on Monday when they begin their pre-event reconnaissance runs to make pace notes. After starting as usual from the rallye’s service park, the 18 stages will take competitors along idyllic yet challenging asphalt tracks through the Moselle region, as well as provide tough tests at the military training grounds in Baumholder with their famous armour flat (Panzerplatte) section and legendary ’Gina’ jump.

The three-day event will cover a total of 1,227 km – almost three times the length of a normal Cup round within the ADAC Rallye Masters – including 326 km of timed stages. The challenging Panzerplatte Lang stage alone is 42.5 km long and will be driven twice on Saturday. Before each run, competitors will also complete a three kilometer sprint in the Arena Panzerplatte, which has the character of a circuit autodrome.

On Friday, the ADAM teams will tackle the first run with six stages comprising around 100 timed kilometers. The second run will go from Saturday morning to Sunday mid-day.

Opel driver and TV host Lina Van de Mars: More information about her rallye experiences can be found on the Opel motorsport website under “Lina’s Rallye World”, where the Berlin resident reports on her adventures in the Opel ADAM Cup

While the ADAC Rallye Deutschland represents a huge challenge for experienced competitors in the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup, it will be an even tougher test Opel driver Lina Van de Mars. In view of her limited experience, the famous TV host is approaching the “Deutschland Rallye adventure with due respect: “I’m not familiar with a single meter of this rallye, but I’ve received lots of reports and have a pretty good idea of what to expect,” she says. “My main goal has to be reaching the finish ramp on Sunday. But I’m really looking forward to the great tests ahead and many fans!” More information about Lina Van de Mars’s rallye experiences can be found on the www.opel-motorsport.com website under “Lina’s Rallye World”, where the Berlin resident reports on her adventures in the Opel ADAM Cup.

In addition to following the fortunes of ADAC Opel Rallye Cup competitors, rallye experts will also be keeping a close eye on the exploits of the two 190 hp ADAM R2 vehicles of the ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team. Marijan Griebel (25, from Hahnweiler), as well as Fabian Kreim (21, from Fränkisch-Crumbach) have already caused quite a stir in expert circles during the first few months of competition since the ADAM R2 was homologated earlier this year. All told, the car has racked up no less than 14 class wins from 19 starts across Europe!

ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team: Marijan Griebel as well as Fabian Kreim (photo) have already caused quite a stir in expert circles during the first few months of competition since the ADAM R2 was homologated earlier this year

The Opel Rallye Junior Team looks forward to continuing this impressive form on the ADAC Rallye Deutschland. “It will be no walk in the park,” admits Marijan Griebel from personal experience. “Whoever wants to drive at the front can’t afford to give only 90 percent. We certainly have a fast car and we’re well prepared for what lies ahead.” Fabian Kreim is relaxed about his prospects: “We feel at home in our ADAM R2, but we’re not going to let ourselves go crazy. The top priority is to cross the finish line, and we’ll see how all the rest goes.”

More information about the ADAC Rallye Deutschland and Opel’s involvement as an official partner is available at www.opel-motorsport.com under the section “Pure Passion“.

!NEW! Opel ADAM R2 Takes European Rallye Scene By Storm

• Strong showing: Opel ADAM R2 impresses with top performance
• Great results: 12 class wins to date from 15 starts
• High interest: Customer inquiries from many European countries

Shooting Star: The 190 hp Opel ADAM R2 has already racked up 12 class wins from 15 starts in national championship rounds in Germany, Spain, France and Austria.

The Opel ADAM R2 has made a huge impact on the European rallye scene in the seven months since it was homologated for competition by the international motorsports federation FIA (Fédération internationale de l’Automobile). The 190 hp ADAM R2 has already racked up no less than 12 class wins from 15 starts in national championship rounds in Germany, Spain, France and Austria.

In Spain, Esteban Vallin and co-driver Borja Odriozola are leading the R2 class in an ADAM R2 entered by the Spanish importer, while Yoann Bonato and Thierry Michaud in an Opel Motorsport Team France car are also top of their rankings in France. And after a false start on their debut event, Daniel Wollinger and Bernhard Holzer have got into their stride in the Austrian Rallye Championship, claiming two class victories in the last two rounds. Not to be outdone, the ADAM R2 prepared by German customer team Audex Motorsport from Extertal and driven by Dutchman Timo van der Marel has also secured a class win on its debut event in the Netherlands. The German-Luxembourgian duo Julius Tannert and Jennifer Thielen, one of the leading teams in this season’s ADAC Opel Rallye Cup, finished a strong second in the Rallye Luxembourg in a highly competitive field of 19 R2 vehicles.

ADAC Opel Rallye Junior Team drivers are providing even more reasons to be cheerful. Marijan Griebel/Alexander Rath and Fabian Kreim/Josefine C. Beinke have taken clear victories in every Division 5 round of the ADAC Rallye Masters to date, failing just once to take a double win. These young Opel works drivers have reached the second stage of Opel and ADAC’s talent promotion pyramid after finishing as the best placed junior drivers in the 2013 ADAC Opel Rallye Cup and achieving selection from a driver screening session. The goal of the Opel/ADAC program is to bring a young German driver to the pinnacle of European rallying in the mid-term – at the wheel of an Opel, of course.

Further proof of the Opel ADAM R2’s competitiveness has come from the GEKP Ypres Rallye in Belgium, held on June 20-21. In a starting field of 44 R2 vehicles, representing all brands who have such a fast car in their portfolio – including all 15 teams from the FIA Junior European Championship – Marijan Griebel/Alexander Rath were battling for a podium finish on one of the most demanding asphalt rallies in Europe when they were halted by drivetrain trouble at the beginning of the 20th and final stage as they were in third place. Former European champion Bruno Thiry was also having an excellent rallye on his debut in an ADAM R2 when he hit a rock and had to retire. Fabian Kreim/Josefine C. Beinke met with a similar fate on the last stage but still managed to finish ninth in the R2 category after stopping to change a wheel.

“The ADAM R2 has completely fulfilled our high expectations to now,” says Opel Motorsport Director Jörg Schrott. “The car is quick and reliable. And our teams praise its driving characteristics and how well it responds to changes in set-up. The ADAM R2’s strong performance is already sparking interest from many customer teams across Europe and we are, of course, delighted about that.”

!NEW! Sport Stars and Visionaries: Opel with ADAM R2, Monza Concept & Co.

Opel at the Essen Motor Show

• Essen head-turner: Public premiere for ADAM R2 rallye car
• Sport for the road: Public debuts for Astra GTC and Corsa OPC in motorsport guise
• Trendsetter: Monza Concept showcases future Opel technologies and design
• At the limit: Top athlete Insignia OPC and adventurer Insignia Country Tourer
• Best connectivity: ADAM Black Link special edition with IntelliLink and Siri Eyes Free
• First hand experiences: Opel partners from football and motorsports on site

New Opel ADAM R2  - Rallye car

In 2014, Opel will be racing full speed ahead into its second season of motorsport activities. Visual proof of this at the Essen Motor Show (Nov 30 – Dec 8) is the premiere of the Rallye ADAM R2, together with the Astra GTC and the Corsa OPC in typical motorsport guises. Another attention-grabbing highlight on the Opel stand (A120 in Hall 3.0) is the visionary Monza Concept.

Opel Monza Concept 

Opel also shows how it is moving into the future with a series of new production cars which demonstrate the brand’s commitment to sportiness and connectivity. Visitors can get a close-up look at top Insignia OPC and Insignia Country Tourer models, as well as the elegant mid-size Cascada convertible, the dynamic and compact Mokka SUV and the stylish ADAM Black Link. The Astra Sports Tourer, with BiTurbo diesel power, also brings ultra-modern, high-torque engine technology to Essen.

In addition, fans can see their sports idols up close as many Opel partners from the world of soccer and motorsport will be appearing on the Opel stand. At the interview followed by an hour’s signing of autographs, the goal scorers from Fortuna Düsseldorf (30.11., 14-15.00), Bayer 04 Leverkusen (1.12, 14-15.00) and Borussia Dortmund (08.12, 13-14.00) are ready to answer the questions that come their way. Already on several days, Joachim  “Jockel” Winkelhock together with the successful young ADAM-Rallye-pilot Marijan Griebel and Fabian Kreim tell of the exciting atmosphere in the cockpit (30.11, 11-12 and 15-16 hours; 1.12, 11-12 and 15-16 hours.) Visitors of the Essen Motor Show will be able to meet the two high flyers on site also on the 7.12 from 11-12 and from 14-15 hours.

On track and on road: ADAM R2, Astra GTC and Corsa OPC in motorsport guise

New Opel ADAM R2  

Opel’s comeback to motorsport created lots of excitement among fans and media alike during the 2013 season. The launch of the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup, with 24 identical ADAM Cup cars, attracted numerous followers, as did the Astra OPC Cup on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife within the framework of the VLN Endurance Championship. With the arrival of the ADAM R2 Rallye car, carrying Opel’s signature yellow-black-white colors, the brand now makes its next big splash in motorsport. This small but swift powerhouse, with about 190 hp on tap, makes its public debut in Essen and will appear on the national and European rallying stage from the beginning of next year.

Opel Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition in special motorsport trim

Opel Astra GTC and Opel Corsa OPC in special motorsport trim are now ready to go into series production. They bring sporty performance onto the road. The Astra GTC in motorsport guise, for example, features a 1.6 liter ECOTEC SIDI (Direct Injection) Turbo engine from Opel’s new powertrain generation which delivers 147 kW/200 hp and 280 Nm maximum torque, while the Corsa OPC Nürburgring Edition packs a 155 kW/210 hp engine, also with 280 Nm maximum torque. Show visitors will be left in no doubt about the level of power under the hood of these cars: they share cool, racing car looks, with an all-white exterior emblazoned by crisp yellow-black-grey motorsport decals. The Corsa OPC with motorsport package is already available to order at its premiere at Essen, while its Astra GTC counterpart will follow next spring.

Opel Astra GTC 1.6 SIDI Turbo (147 kW/200 hp) in motorsport guise

Opel Monza Concept: Infotainment and connectivity for tomorrow

Opel Monza Concept - unique LED projection technology

Sporty and efficient with all-round connectivity – that is what the automotive future looks like. And in all these areas, the Opel Monza Concept is both a visionary and pioneer. With its captivating exterior styling and innovative modular powertrain system design, the Monza Concept embodies stylish and ultra-modern efficiency on four wheels and takes this into the interior. Here Opel’s latest concept car impresses with unique LED projection technology and versatile connectivity possibilities. Although it may all seem like a quantum leap for today’s drivers in Essen, this level of technology will soon be a normal part of everyday life. By showcasing what lies in store, the Monza Concept is an impressive role-model for the next generation of Opel cars.

Insignia OPC and Insignia Country Tourer: Opel’s top series production models

New Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer

In every way and in every variant, the new Opel Insignia range is simply captivating. With 239 kW/325 hp and 435 Nm maximum torque, the Insignia OPC is Opel’s top-of-the-line performer. This all-wheel drive model features new, refreshed looks and a modified chassis which shows its abilities on winding country roads as well as fast, open stretches of autobahn. With a six-speed manual transmission and all-wheel drive, the Insignia OPC sprints from zero to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds. The cabin welcomes drivers with a pure motorsport ambience. Recaro performance seats, the OPC gearshift knob, and a new main instrument panel giving driver-specific information all exude premium flair.

New Opel Insignia Country Tourer 4x4

The new Insignia Country Tourer is the adventurer of the Insignia family. This athletic all-rounder features under-ride décor elements front and rear, combined with prominent wheel-arch and lower body cladding, all complemented by dual exhaust tailpipes. The Country Tourer is equipped for the rigors of uneven terrain by the addition of a standard protective guard under the engine compartment which is made from high-strength steel and specially-coated for durability. State-of-the-art all-wheel drive ensures grip and sure-footed handling in all driving conditions. It is teamed with powerful turbo engines such as the 184 kW/250 hp, 2.0-liter ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo gasoline unit or a 143 kW/195 hp high-performance 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI – both generating impressive maximum torque of 400 Nm.

Opel Astra Sports Tourer BiTurbo CDTI 

Essen Motor Show visitors can take a close look at Opel’s ultra-modern BiTurbo technology in the Astra Sports Tourer. With sequential BiTurbo power, this compact station wagon accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in just 8.9 seconds. Maximum speed is 224 km/h – faster than any other Astra Sports Tourer. While ensuring strong performance and lots of driving fun, twin-turbo technology is also ultra-efficient and exceptionally frugal.

Opel Astra Sports Tourer BiTurbo CDTI 

Mid-size Opel Cascada convertible: Timeless, elegant open-air enjoyment

Opel Cascada - Mid-size convertible

The Opel Cascada sets new standards for mid-size convertibles. This classy four-seat drop-top offers year-round comfort and is defined by its elegant, elongated silhouette. The high-quality soft-top can be deployed within 17 seconds at driving speeds up to 50 km/h, making it one of the fastest and best on the market. The Cascada also delivers a sharp driving experience with its super-rigid body and advanced HiPerStrut front suspension – initially developed for the high performance Insignia OPC – together with FlexRide adaptive damping and newest-generation, high-performance engines. Premium equipment and features otherwise found only in high-end convertibles all contribute to enhanced levels of comfort.

Opel Cascada - Elegant four-seat convertible

Compact SUV Opel Mokka: Impressive ‘All-wheel Drive Car of the Year 2013’

Opel Mokka SUV

‘All-wheel drive Car of the Year 2013’, ‘Best SUV in its class’, ‘Design Trophy winner’ – these are just some of the many awards the Opel Mokka has received, causing quite a sensation in its segment. To date, 145,000 orders have come in for the Mokka from all over Europe. In all respects, the compact, dynamic Opel SUV makes a convincing case. At 4.28 meters long, it provides generous accommodation with high seating positions for five occupants. Available with front or all-wheel drive, the chassis is also suitable for use beyond the limits of paved roads. Mokka customers can now choose high-torque and economical gasoline, diesel or LPG engines. Technologies and comfort details, such as the ultra-modern IntelliLink infotainment system, Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) and ergonomic seats with the AGR (Campaign for Healthy Backs) seal of approval, make the Mokka even more attractive.

Opel ADAM Black Link: Optimal connectivity and stylish travel

Opel ADAM Black Link

The chic Opel ADAM has been turning heads since its market launch at the beginning of 2013. Its unconventional, colorful appearance and its limitless personalization possibilities all ensure it remains an attention-getter. Practically every ADAM is a unique vehicle. This small urban car now once again proves its role as the innovative individualization champion with the launch of the ADAM Black Link variant. This special model is like a sophisticated smartphone on wheels. Opel offers the ADAM Black Link not only with the award-winning, clever IntelliLink infotainment system and Siri Eyes Free voice control fitted as standard, but also in a very special black-white smartphone design with brushed aluminum accents. It thus embodies a perfect blend of ultra-modern infotainment and connectivity technology with clear, technically-inspired design.

The Essen Motor Show takes place from November 30 to December 8 and is open on weekdays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and from 9 a.m. at weekends.

!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! Season Results: Opel Celebrates Successful Return to Motorsport

Big sporting event: New Opel ADAM R2 impresses at ADAC Three Cities Rally

Fast youngster: Marijan Griebel and Fabian Kreim win young talent competition

Best prospects: ADAC Opel Rallye Cup 2014 with 14 more ADAMs in starting line-up

Green Hell: Opel Astra OPC Cup successful on the Nürburgring Nordschleif

Mario Merten and the Bonk Motorsport team bring home a victory in the Opel Astra OPC Cup. Merten finished the season alongside Jürgen Nett, following the passing away of his original partner, Wolf Silvester (photo) during the course of the season.

What an exciting first season in Opel's comeback to motorsport! With two brand trophies up for grabs in 2013, the German carmaker returned to the national stage. It continued its great touring car tradition with the 300 hp Opel Astra OPC, for which there were nine rounds of the Astra OPC Cup on the legendary Nürburgring Nordschleife within the framework of the VLN Endurance Championship. Two drivers shared an Astra for these marathon races through the "Green Hell". At the season’s final last weekend, Mario Merten and Jürgen Nett were ultimately victorious in winning the Astra OPC Cup from their toughest rivals Jannik Olivo and Elmar Jurek by a wafer-thin margin of 29 points.

Opel Astra OPC Cup: On average, in the first season of the Opel Astra OPC Cup, 18 Cup-Astras started out on the Nürnburgring. Four teams shared the wins of the nine races and Mario Merten was the most successful driver with five victories

For Jörg Schrott, Director Opel Motorsport, the racing was excellent: "Congratulations to Bonk Motorsport and Mario Merten on the championship win in the Opel Astra OPC Cup! We have experienced an incredibly exciting and toughly-contested first season. Plans for the 2014 season are already underway: “We will continue to build on our involvement in the coming year. We would like to make the Cup even more attractive with a further six vehicles.”

The little Opel ADAM shows big form

The ADAC Opel Rallye Cup season ended with three key outcomes. At the Three Cities Rallye, the ADAM pack had an overall Cup victor, Markus Fahrner, there was a junior driver award winner, Marijan Griebel, and a free starting place in a brand-new Opel ADAM R2 for next season.

A junior-evaluation: Opel motorsport director Jörg Schrott (left) and ADAC Sportspresident Hermann Tomczyk with the fastest of the young talent team: Griebel/Rath (middle). Kreim/Engel and Allkofer/Götzenberger (right).

Of the five youngsters – Christian Allkofer, Timo Broda, Dominik Dinkel, Marijan Griebel and Fabian Kreim – Griebel and Kreim were ultimately able to assert themselves. The young driver will thus receive an ADAM R2 especially prepared by Holzer Rennsport in Augsburg for the brand Cup next year. This latest, 185-hp rallye version caused a sensation as a course car at the Three Cities Rallye with ADAC Sport President Hermann Tomcsyk at the wheel. This second prototype (number one had its world premiere at the Deutschland Rallye in August) has been further enhanced, and now roughly approximates the status Opel will homologate on January 1 with the international motorsports federation FIA. This means that the foundations have already been laid for the 2014 season.

Rallye-champions: Opel motorsport director Jörg Schrott (left) and ADAC Sportspresident Hermann Tomczyk with the three fastest of the rallye-team 2013: Griebel/Rath (middle). Kreim/Engel and Allkofer/Götzenberger (right).

Stronger engagement in the Opel Rallye Cup 2014

In collaboration with the ADAC, Opel will be intensifying its promotion of young drivers in rallying. The current R1 vehicles, with upgrades and slight modifications, will remain in the competition and will be joined by 14 brand-new R2s. The highly attractive price of the ADAM Cup variant remains unchanged at 24,900 euros. Like this year, participants will take delivery of their cars directly at the Eisenach plant, where the Opel ADAM is built. It is, in fact, the only small car from a German manufacturer that is actually made in Germany.

The flying Rallye-ADAM: After damage to the axle driving shaft, the team Fahrner/Wenzel put all their eggs in one basket. A record time in the last time trial was decisive in the win of the ADAC Opel Rallye Cup.

The Opel Rallye Cup will consist of eight races within the framework of the ADAC Rallye Masters 2014. Young drivers up to 27 years old are eligible to take part. Older drivers can take part outside of the brand trophy and will be assessed in a joint division in the ADAC Rallye Masters. This is well worth winning, given that the senior winner will receive a new series production ADAM as a prize at the end of the season. For the Opel Rallye Cup itself, the prize money is increased: first place receives 30,000 euros, second place 20,000 euros and third place 10,000 euros. A junior rating winner who qualifies for a free ride in 2015 rounds off the package. Motorsport could hardly be more attractive for young drivers.

Rallye-champion Fahrner: after eight races of the season with a total of 91 time trials, it was in the end a single second in the very last time trial of the year that was decisive in settling the duel of titles between Markus Fahrner/Michael Wenzel and Marijan Griebel/Alexander Rath.

Opel Chief Marketing Officer Tina Müller agrees: "The young, committed drivers in our trendy, quick Rallye ADAM are a perfect fit to Opel. This is hands-on motorsport. It’s gripping for the spectators and exciting for the participants. So it is a highly emotional experience for all involved and all takes place on a very high technical level."

!NEW! Four Opel World Premieres at Geneva Motor Show 2013

• New elegant midsize Opel Cascada convertible makes its world debut
• Urban crossover concept Opel ADAM ROCKS shows freedom in its most individual form
• Opel ADAM R2 Concept bound for rallyeing this year
• Super efficient all-new 1.6 liter Turbo Diesel premieres in Opel Zafira Tourer
• Opel ADAM best connected small car, with IntelliLink and Siri Eyes Free voice recognition

Opel presents four world premieres at this year’s Geneva Motor Show (public visitor days March 7 – 17, 2013). The new mid-size class Cascada convertible, the urban crossover concept ADAM ROCKS, the rallye concept ADAM R2 and the Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI will all be revealed at the Opel press conference on March 5 at 9:00 a.m. in Geneva Palexpo, Hall 2, Stand 2231.

With the elegant four seat Cascada convertible, Opel now offers an attractive and affordable alternative in a segment dominated by higher priced midsize cabrios. With muscular proportions and an open-air feeling, the crossover concept ADAM ROCKS previews possible design routes to an absolutely unique and even more individual car, while the ADAM R2 variant, bound for international customer rallyeing this year, also joins the small car’s star cast. A key part of the comprehensive update to Opel’s engine portfolio is the launch of a new family of mid-size diesel engines. The new generation 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC makes its debut in Geneva in the compact Zafira Tourer van. The urban lifestyle ADAM, Opel’s individualization champion and best connected small car, made waves before and during its market launch. Now it is sure to turn more heads at Geneva as the ADAM continues to increase its technological advantage with new IntelliLink functions, such as Siri Eyes Free voice recognition and apps like TuneIn for global radio streaming.

World premiere: New Opel Cascada – Glamorous all season midsize convertible

The new Opel Cascada is a classy four seater with an elongated silhouette and a sophisticated, high quality soft-top. Positioned at the top of Opel’s product line-up, the Cascada is a mid-size convertible that’s distinguished not only by its size (length: almost 4.70 meters), but also by its allure and the many premium technologies and features it offers.

It delivers a sharp driving experience with a super rigid body, advanced HiPerStrut front suspension and adaptive mechatronic FlexRide chassis system. All occupants can enjoy the pleasures of open-air driving thanks to the premium quality soft-top which opens at the touch of a button in 17 seconds while driving at speeds of up to 50 km/h. It can also be activated by remote control when the car is stationary.

With its outstanding load capacity of up to 380 liters (top closed), the all-season convertible shows that glamour and everyday practicality are perfectly compatible. To increase load volume, the Opel Cascada benefits from the FlexFold system which electrically releases and folds down the 50:50 split rear seat-back rests – a feature that cannot be offered in hard-top convertibles.

True premium equipment such as automatic seatbelt presenters, exclusive Nappa leather upholstery and ventilated ergonomic seats, as well as a host of safety systems, enhance interior comfort and provide greater safety for relaxed driving pleasure. Even with a very rich standard equipment, Cascada prices are highly attractive and start at 25,945 euros (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). The new Opel Cascada will arrive at dealerships in April.

World premiere: Opel ADAM ROCKS Concept – Freedom in its most individual form

The lifestyle Opel ADAM is the true champion of individualization – and the best connected small car around. But that is not enough for Opel. At the Geneva Motor Show, the automaker reveals it is exploring new ways of further enhancing ADAM’s individualization with a three door, urban mini-crossover study called ADAM ROCKS. With its muscular proportions, fierce design and an open-air capability, the 3.7 meter long ADAM ROCKS opens the door to a new market segment.

The ADAM ROCKS concept has been created for those seeking personal freedom “off the beaten track”. Inspired by parkour athletes, it features a higher and wider stance as well as an especially powerful, compact appearance. Its assertive looks, with a prominent grille structure and LED headlamps, show this car means business. Boomerang shaped turn indicators make the ADAM ROCKS’ styling even more individual, and the clips on the concept’s large, 18 inch wheels get a particularly expressive design.

The ADAM ROCKS’ special feeling of personal freedom is further emphasized by its cabrio looks and a fabric roof that offers a clear view of the sky above. The fabric extends across the entire width of the roof right back to the C pillars. The ‘networked’ roof’s special appeal is its intelligence: a special weather app, displayed on the color touch screen of the IntelliLink driver-information-center, knows when a weather front is imminent and automatically initiates closing of the roof. This ADAM rocks!

World premiere: Opel ADAM Rallye R2 – ADAM UNCHAINED

Opel officially returned to motorsport with the ADAM “Cup” in November 2012. At this year’s Geneva Motor Show the brand now presents a new Rallye Cup variant of its small lifestyle car, built based on FIA R2 regulations. Special body components from the sporty Opel OPC product line and quick release catches on the hood and tailgate, as well as under ride guards front and rear, emphasize the sporty format of this rallye specialist.

Its unique shell also harbors pure high-tech. The ADAM R2 is powered by a 1.6 liter ECOTEC 16V engine with variable camshaft phasing that develops around 136 kW/185 hp and maximum torque of about 190 Nm in its competitive configuration. The adjustable chassis set-up with asphalt and gravel settings guarantees maximum traction and dynamic handling. And excellent stopping power is provided by a braking system with a hydraulic ‘fly-off’ handbrake, Brembo 4 piston front brake calipers and braking pressure regulation for the rear axle.

The R2’s cabin features all the attributes of a professional competition vehicle. Equipment includes an integrated safety structure, HANS-compatible SPARCO Competition racing seats, a cockpit with an LCD gear indicator, control light and MONIT trip computer, a central control panel, a map reading light and an electric fire extinguisher. After its homologation, the ADAM R2 will be a top-class vehicle for international customer rallyeing, eligible for every national championship in Europe.

World premiere: New Opel Zafira Tourer 1.6 CDTI – Highest turbo diesel efficiency

Opel introduces the 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC, the cleanest diesel engine in the company’s history, in the Zafira Tourer at the Geneva Motor Show. Equipped with Opel BlueInjection SCR (Selective Catalytic Reduction) technology, this new generation four cylinder turbo diesel already meets future stringent Euro 6 emissions limits.

In the Opel Zafira Tourer, the new generation 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC unit delivers 100 kW/136 hp and 320 Nm of torque, together with outstanding combined cycle fuel efficiency of just 4.1 l/100 km and very low emission levels of only 109 g/km CO2. No other compact monocab on the market place offers such a great combination of high torque and performance (with a maximum speed of 193 km/h) and fuel economy. 

The new 1.6 CDTI ECOTEC does not only set benchmarks for performance with its high power and torque density but also for refinement with an outstandingly low level of noise, vibration and harshness. This new generation engine and its innovative engine control unit have been entirely developed in-house by a global team of engineers in Turin, Rüsselsheim and the USA.

Infotainment premiere: Opel ADAM IntelliLink – Now with Siri Eyes Free voice recognition

Opel’s individualization champion ADAM is the best connected small car on the market. Its IntelliLink infotainment system is compatible with both iPhones iOS and Android smartphones and integrates many of their functions into the car. With Siri Eyes Free voice recognition (for iPhone smartphones that run on Apple iOS 6) and apps like TuneIn for global radio streaming, the ADAM continues to extend its technological leadership with additional IntelliLink features.

Opel ADAM IntelliLink with BringGo navigation

Siri Eyes Free voice recognition makes driving safer as well as more comfortable. TuneIn brings the world of international radio to drivers and passengers: app users can tune in to 70,000 stations and over two million on-demand programs. Many other apps are also available for ADAM’s IntelliLink system, including Stitcher global podcast internet radio and BringGo navigation for Western and Eastern Europe. Everything is clearly displayed in the car via IntelliLink’s seven inch color touch screen display.