Goosebumps, speed and euphoria: Opel Mokka GSE Rally and Opel Mokka GSE at the DEKRA Lausitzring
Rugged show car for all occasions: Opel Frontera GRAVEL made for adventure seekers
Opel in the spotlight: After the XS Carnight Festival on Lake Wörthersee, XS fans gather in Brandenburg
On Sunday, motorsport and tuning fans flocked to the DEKRA Lausitzring in Brandenburg where the community celebrated particularly sporty and eye-catching automobiles at the XS Cars'n'Coffee event. And Opel was right in the middle of the action. The brand with the Blitz attracted a lot of interest with its new battery-electric models Opel Mokka GSE Rally and Opel Mokka GSE as well as the extraordinary show car for adventure seekers, the Opel Frontera GRAVEL. A look at the trio was enough to create the proverbial OMG! feeling. Furthermore, Opel once again demonstrated that it has always sent the pulses of motorsport fans racing. The German brand also displayed an Opel Vectra B racing car from the Opel Classic collection.
Pure OMG! GSE power: New Opel Mokka GSE Rally and Opel Mokka GSE
At the Lausitzring, the new Opel Mokka GSE Rally was in its element at the weekend. Because the new rally electric car with the characteristic GSE abbreviation stands for goosebumps, speed and euphoria – perfect for the XS fans who had travelled to the event. From the outside, Opel Mokka GSE Rally, which was recently shown at the IAA Mobility in Munich, attracts attention with motorsport foiling including OMG! GSE lettering, black bonnet, yellow brake calipers and many other rally accents. The key technical data are even more impressive: 207 kW (281 hp) of peak power, 345 Newton metres of torque and sophisticated motorsport technology make the Mokka GSE Rally a unique all-electric rally car.
Best of all, Opel is also bringing this motorsport feeling to the general public in the form of the new Opel Mokka GSE, which is already available to order. With 207 kW (281 hp), the series electric car is just as powerful as its motorsport counterpart. And with the immediate torque of 345 Newton meters brisk acceleration is also guaranteed. Opel Mokka GSE accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 5.9 seconds – and with a top speed of 200 km/h, it is now the fastest all-electric production Opel. The sophisticated technology, which is also inspired by the rally car, contributes to the extraordinary performance. For example, Opel Mokka GSE has a Torsen multi-plate limited-slip differential as well as a chassis with specifically designed axles and new double hydraulic shock absorbers. All high-voltage components of the production Opel Mokka GSE come from Opel Mokka GSE Rally. The steering system, chassis and brakes have also been designed to be particularly sporty and optimised with Opel's experience from electric rallying.
Adventure calls: With the Opel Frontera GRAVEL show car
Eleswhere, a completely different Opel celebrated its second XS Carnight appearance at the Lausitzring: the Opel Frontera GRAVEL. The bold, all-electric show car had already caused a stir at its first public appearance at the XS Carnight on Lake Wörthersee in the spring. Now the adventurous version of the family-friendly SUV Frontera thrilled visitors to XS Cars'n'Coffee. The exterior design of the Frontera GRAVEL already awakens the desire to head off the beaten track thanks to its characteristic paintwork and foiling. The matt black roof and the matt black bonnet contrast with the ‘Desert Stone’ foil uniquely selected for Opel Frontera GRAVEL. Additional orange accents are provided by the exterior mirror housings, front and rear bumpers, spoiler and the Opel Blitz in the black Opel Vizor.
The rugged look is further enhanced by a front-mounted winch and hook, side storage boxes at the rear, and a robust lattice-style roof rack designed to maximise gear-carrying capacity for all adventures. And in keeping with the tougher challenges of rough gravel and stone surfaces, Opel Frontera GRAVEL stands on special, seven-inch-wide CWE-16-inch BORBET wheels.
Combined values for Opel Mokka GSE according to WLTP1: Energy consumption 17.9-18.5 kWh/100 km, CO2 emissions 0 g/km; CO2 label: A
[1] The values of a vehicle depend not only on the efficient use of fuel by the vehicle, but are also influenced by driving behavior and other non-technical factors.
Back friendly seating à la Opel: Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR) awards manufacturer for long-standing commitment to back health
AGR debut: 2003 Signum was first Opel with ergonomically certified seats
More than just seats: Entire vehicle concept of Opel Meriva awarded AGR seal of approval
Today’s Opel Grandland and Opel Astra: Intelli-Seats and ergonomic active sports seats with numerous adjustment options as well as massage and ventilation functions
Relaxing and healthy seating has a long tradition at Opel. Opel drivers and passengers of all sizes have been able to enjoy particularly back-friendly seating in models bearing the ‘Blitz’ emblem for more than 20 years. The brand is synonymous with seats that integrate drivers and passengers comfortably, safely and sportily into the respective Opel model. Opel has now been recognised by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (AGR) (Campaign for Healthy Backs) for its decades of continuous commitment to back health and relaxing seating. The experts for healthy seating presented the award to Opel representatives at the Adam Opel House at the company's headquarters in Rüsselsheim.
This long-standing commitment continues in Opel’s current models, such as the compact class bestseller Opel Astra and the Opel Grandland, the manufacturer demonstrates that ergonomically excellent seats promote health and increase road safety. The ultra-modern Intelli-Seats and active sports seats offer numerous adjustment options and combine this with comfort details from multi-level seat heating to massage functions and ventilation. The motto: Take a seat, enjoy the drive and get out again after hours in a relaxed manner. However, the triumph of ergonomically valuable seating at Opel began more than 20 years ago, or more precisely, in 2003 with the first AGR seal of approval for the Opel Signum.
Good for the back: AGR-certified Ergonomic Seats from 2003
Relaxed travelling not only increases the well-being and safety of passengers, it is also an important health factor. The ‘right’ seat is not only comfortable, it also supports the occupant’s back. Opel has a pioneering role amongst volume manufacturers in this area for a long time. The company was the first automaker to offer back-friendly seats in the mid-size class in 2003, with the first AGR seal of approval for the Opel Signum. The experts for healthy seating awarded the 18-way electrically adjustable, multi-contour driver‘s seat in the Opel Vectra/Opel Signum their seal of approval.
From this moment on, the ergonomically superior seats set off on their road to success. In 2008, the standard comfort seats in the Opel Insignia offered generous adjustment setting ranges – 65 mm (electric) for height and 270 mm longitudinally – achieving absolute best marks here. The premium driver’s seat was AGR certified.
And in 2012 the Opel Meriva MPV was the first series production car to receive the coveted AGR seal of approval for its overall ergonomic concept: FlexDoors with an opening angle of 84 degrees, FlexSpace system, AGR-certified ergonomic seats and the FlexFix bicycle carrier.
Opel also made the especially back-friendly seats available in the compact class. For the first time, the AGR-certified premium ergonomic seats in the Opel Astra generation introduced in 2015 were not just multi-adjustable in height, longitude and tilt, they were also optionally available with further comfort features such as massage, ventilation and memory function. And there is also a comfort plus for the second row: seat heating is not only available for both front seats, but also for the outer rear seats.
Seating comfort at its best: Active Sports Seats in Opel Astra, Intelli-Seats in Opel Grandland
Opel is continuously developing the seats recognised by the Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. and enriching them with innovations that make driving even more relaxed and healthier. The various seats in the latest Opel Astra generation and in the top-of-the-range Opel Grandland SUV offer seating comfort at its best.
Opel Grandland’s Intelli-Seats are characterised by a special recess running down the middle of the seat, which is inspired by the saddles of racing bikes and reduces pressure on the tailbone. The patented Intelli-Seat ergonomic feature ensures relaxed driving comfort even on long trips. And the optionally available extendable thigh support also increases the seat surface and gives occupants with long thighs more seat contact. The optimal hold in the pelvic area is supported by the electro-pneumatically adjustable lumbar support in height and length.
At the same time, the workmanship and features of the seats not only testify to high quality – the covers of the Intelli-Seats are also made of recycled and thus sustainable fabrics, thus taking into account Opel's ‘Greenovation’ approach. This also applies to the ergonomic active sports seats in the Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer, which are also certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. Their covers are made of the mono-material ReNewKnit™. It conveys the high-quality look of suede, and it is 100 per cent recycled and recyclable. This reduces the CO2 footprint and avoids waste.
For those who want to enjoy even more seating comfort in the Opel Grandland and Astra models, they can opt for the Nappa leather upholstery, for example – in the Opel Astra in combination with ergonomic active sports seats and in the Opel Grandland with the high-end Intelli-Seat Pro.
Opel has further developed this ergonomic seat and equipped it with new comfort features. For the first time in the Grandland, it has adjustable side cushions. The two air cushions housed in the cheeks of the backrests improve lateral support and can be adjusted according to personal preferences. In addition, the driver and front passenger seats offer ventilation as well as various massage programmes and many more features. The Intelli-Seat Pro represents the current high-end seat in the Opel portfolio in terms of comfort and individual adjustment options.
Modern and connected: Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatible multimedia systems in all Opel passenger cars
Internet for cars: Opel a pioneer in the small car segment in 2012 with IntelliLink
When the radio went on tour: 1938 Admiral the first Opel with a car radio
In honour of “wireless”: World Radio Day on February 13
All-New Opel Astra: Pure Panel cockpit
Blues, rock, pop, hip-hop – music styles that could hardly be more different and yet have one thing in common: they inspire people and trigger emotions. And where do most people – by far – listen to music? In the car! Today, state-of-the-art multimedia systems, such as in the Opel Astra, winner of the “Golden Steering Wheel 2022” 1, ensure optimal sound and entertainment. They are already standard in many Opel models and ensure top connectivity, coming with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as well as numerous personalisation options and state-of-the-art navigation. But when did the radio make its debut in Opel vehicles? And what pioneering developments has the German automobile manufacturer helped advance? In honour of “World Radio Day” on February 13 we take a look back.
Enjoying music en route: Opel introduces radio in Opel Admiral and Kapitän
World Radio Day has been celebrated since 2012 – in reminiscence of the founding of United Nations Radio on February 13, 1946. However, “wireless” entertainment was born at the beginning of the 20th century; in Germany, the first radio station went into operation in 1923. At the time, Fritz von Opel, a grandson of company founder Adam Opel, was also a radio pioneer involved in setting up the “Südwestdeutscher Rundfunkdienst”.
Almost at the same time, first car radio was introduced in the USA. Opel offered a car radio for the first time in 1938, as an accessory for Opel Admiral, initially mounted under dashboard near the floor. Just one year later, for introduction of Opel Kapitän, Opel offered an optional Blaupunkt radio integrated in the dashboard.
1938: Opel Admiral with car radio
Sound no longer came from footwell, but from the middle of the car, so that the passengers could enjoy hits such as “Over the Rainbow” by Judy Garland.
Innovations for everyone: VHF, window antenna and radios made by Opel
After the end of the Second World War and during the subsequent years of the “German economic miracle”, the further development of car radios and reception picked up speed. VHF was introduced in Europe in 1949. Radios in Opel models featured this pioneering reception as early as the first half of the 1950s. Opel's credo has always been to make innovations accessible to everyone. So, at the end of the 1960s, Opel vehicles offered stereo reception. In the mid-1970s, carmaker even launched its own range of Opel-branded radios in standard, comfort and luxury versions – latter with a cassette deck.
1971: Opel Diplomat with radio and window antenna
Beginning in 1971, Opel offered a new window antenna as an option, initially in top models Opel Admiral and Diplomat. According to the company at time, the reception was “equal to, in many cases even superior to, that of conventional rod antennas”. Windscreen acted as an antenna mount, the antenna itself running in a barely perceptible ring shape around the perimeter. This meant that owners no longer needed to worry about damage to the more exposed rod antenna.
In 1977 all Opel radios then acquired traffic information – a technological innovation that made driving a lot more relaxed and time-saving, since the driver's attention was drawn directly to the announcements on the radio (even if listening to cassettes).
Radio reception improved still further in the following decade. In 1981 Opel launched its first car radio with automatic volume control; and in 1988, RDS (Radio Data System) was introduced, enabling car radios to display additional information on the current programme or traffic reports.
CARIN: Leap from radio to navigation system with route guidance
Whereas drivers had previously been dependent on printed road maps and traffic reports on the radio to plan their journeys, in 1995 Opel was first car manufacturer to present a mid-range model with a fully integrated navigation system in Opel Vectra. “Car Information and Navigation System (CARIN)”, developed by Philips, provided passengers with visual and acoustic route information. Map material was stored on CD, while the position of the vehicle was determined by an interaction of technologies such as GPS, satellite signal reception and ABS wheel sensors.
1995: Opel Vectra with Car Information and Navigation System (CARIN)
With the second generation “Carin 440” in the Opel Astra, navigation made its way into the compact class in 1998.
At the same time, the developers worked on continuously improving the sound quality. Thanks to Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB), noise and similar interferences have become a thing of the past. Digital radio reception enables crystal-clear listening to a larger number of programmes and is now standard in all Opel passenger cars as well as in the majority of commercial vehicles.
From IntelliLink to Multimedia: Internet arrives in Opel cars
In 2012, the age of the Internet began in Opel vehicles. Brand introduced the new IntelliLink infotainment system in its Opel ADAM and thus became a pioneer in the small car segment. IntelliLink integrated Apple iOS and Android smartphone functions. AUTO BILD and COMPUTER BILD gave the “Connected Car Award” to the pioneering Opel system. In 2014, Apple and Google presented Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for the first time; and in the following year, Opel presented the second generation of IntelliLink – now compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
2014: Opel ADAM with IntelliLink – Compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
Today, Opel models feature state-of-the-art multimedia systems equipped with digital DAB+ reception. Hands-free phone calls, operation via touchscreen or voice command as well as wireless smartphone integration are just some of the countless possibilities that the current models from Opel Mokka to Opel Grandland and Opel Astra make available. Such technologies can be operated intuitively with the latest generation digital user interface, Opel Pure Panel cockpit.
Opel Mokka: Pure Panel cockpit
Foundation for all this was once laid by the radio, which is why Opel is celebrating “World Radio Day” on February 13.
[1] AUTO BILD edition 45/2022 and BILD am SONNTAG edition 46/2022, category for “Best car up to €50,000”
From Opel Corsa to Opel Senator: Three-way catalytic converter on every model
Pro-environmental investment: DM 1.0 billion for new test facilities and equipment
Opel Ascona 1.8i: First German car with catalytic converter especially for Europe
Today: All Opel passenger cars meet strict EURO 6d-TEMP emissions standard
Thirty years ago, on April 21, 1989, Opel announced it would become the first German car manufacturer to offer the three-way catalytic converter as standard equipment on all its passenger cars – from Corsa and Kadett, to Vectra, Omega and Senator. Or as Opel’s Managing Director at the time, Louis R. Hughes, told the journalists at the press conference in Bonn: “Opel is the first carmaker to offer the best environmental technology as standard across the model range, from compact car to limousine.”
3-Way Catalytic Converter
But true to the entrepreneurial motto, “do the unexpected”, Opel went even further: in order to make it easier for customers to buy a car with the climate-friendly technology, the company also lowered prices for many models.
Opel continues to take its responsibility for the environment seriously today. All current Opel passenger cars already meet the strict Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard; and on the eve of the breakthrough for electric mobility, the carmaker is now putting the finishing touches to two of its next big steps towards sustainable mobility: Opel Grandland X as plug-in hybrid electric vehicle and the battery-powered version of the next-generation Corsa. Opel will open the order banks for both cars later this year. Every European Opel passenger car model will have an electrified version by 2024.
From Corsa to Senator: Three-way catalytic converter on every model
March 1988: with 20,451 units, Opel has established itself as the leader in new registrations of cars with three-way catalytic converters in Germany. By the end of the year the number had increased to 208,000. The amount of Opel cars equipped with catalytic converters rose again in early 1989 following the introduction of the Vectra, which Opel offered with the three-way catalytic converter as standard right from the start of sales.
The automotive engineering community at the time was convinced that there was no alternative to the three-way catalytic converter if exhaust emissions were to be reduced as much as possible. While the three-way converter removed around 90 per cent of the emissions, it was only about 50 per cent with a conventional two-way converter or 60 percent with a lean-burn engine. The three-way converter performed even better when it came to nitrogen oxides, with a reduction of 90 percent.
Opel’s smallest car with three-way catalytic converter in 1989 was the Corsa, fitted as standard with a 44 kW (60hp) 1.3-litre fuel-injection engine. Then came the 1.3-litre Kadett in the compact class, while the midsize Vectra featured not only a 55 kW (75 hp) 1.6-litre base engine, but also an 85 kW (115 hp) 2.0-litre power unit.
In the upper midsize class, the Omega was equipped as standard with the 85 kW (115 hp) 2.0 engine. The top-of-the-line model with three-way catalytic converter was the Senator. The Opel flagship was available with two 3.0-litre, in-line six-cylinder engines that produced 115 kW (156 hp) and 130 kW (177 hp) respectively.
Offering the three-way catalytic converter as standard across the range was the provisional climax of an environmental offensive that Opel had started five years before.
Exemplary behaviour: Opel shows responsibility for environmental protection
In the early 1980s, a discussion about acid rain and dying forests took hold in Germany. Emissions of nitrogen oxides were identified as a contributory factor. Road traffic, as well as industry, was seen as a cause.
Opel immediately recognised its responsibility for the protection of the environment and committed more than one billion Deutsche Mark (DM), as well as hundreds of engineers, to the development of catalytic converters.
Opel invested DM 100 million alone in new test rigs and test equipment for durability and high-speed testing. The new facilities included a 13-storey-high “soak tower”. In this insulated building, more than 130 cars could be prepared simultaneously for emissions testing. The legal standards required that, before the emissions test, each car had to be stored for at least 12 hours at a temperature of 20 to 25 degrees Celsius.
Initially, most catalytic converters in Europe were just modifications of the U.S. version. But with the introduction of the Opel Ascona 1.8i in early 1985, Opel was the first German manufacturer to bring a model onto the market with a catalytic converter that was specially developed for European conditions. The first example actually produced was delivered to the Rhineland-Palatinate police force.
Environmental offensive: Catalytic converter at no extra cost
Environmental offensive continued the following autumn, when Opel presented the first European small car with three-way catalytic converter, the Corsa 1.3i. In 1986, the carmaker offered the new Opel Omega at no additional cost for the catalytic converter. Launches of the Opel Senator (1987) and the Opel Vectra (1988) followed the same strategy. Additionally, all Opel cars with three-way catalytic converter were equipped with active carbon filters for capturing hydrocarbons that escaped from the fuel tank.
Anniversary model: Bestselling Opel Grandland X special model with leading technologies and comfort
Learning curve: From box seat to ergonomic seat with massage function in 120 years
Experts’ approval: Seats in Opel models certified by Campaign for Healthier Backs
Second-row comfort: Heated rear seats in Opel Insignia, Astra and Grandland X SUV
Opel Grandland X “120 Years”
Opel has been developing and producing automobiles since 1899. “Democratise top technologies and make them accessible to everyone” has been the motto since day one. Driven by this commitment, the automaker is celebrating “120 Years of Opel Automobile Production” this year. Through the decades, Opel has introduced numerous technical advancements and made them accessible to the general public. These include efficient engines and superior chassis, as well as state-of-the-art assistance systems. At the same time, Opel has always made the comfort of drivers and passengers a top priority. After all, motorists want one thing above all else: a comfortable and relaxed journey. Seats play a key role; they are the interface between man and machine. Accordingly, Opel also focused on seat development at an early stage, as seats with a perfect ergonomic shape increase not only comfort, but also safety. Both aspects have been at the top of the German carmaker’s agenda since the introduction of the first automobiles – after all, the 1899 Opel “Patentmotorwagen” already had leather seats.
The list of seating-milestones in 120 years of Opel engineering ranges from the introduction of longitudinal adjustment in 1931 and the legendary reclining seats in the Opel Kapitän, to height adjustment in the Opel Monza and Senator in the late 1970s and the Flex7 seating system in the first Opel Zafira exactly 20 years ago. Then in 2003 the first ergonomic seat certified by Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V. (Campaign for Healthier Backs) made its Opel premiere in the mid-size Signum. Today, models like the Opel Astra, Opel Insignia and Opel Grandland X can be ordered with the award-winning, continuously developed ergonomic active seats.
Opel Grandland X - Ergonomic active seats
A prime example of top technologies and first-class comfort for everyone is the Opel Grandland X “120 Years” (fuel consumption with 1.2 Direct Injection Turbo, 96kW/130hp, six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop according to NEDC1: urban 6.1 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.9-4.8 l/100 km, combined 5.3-5.2 l/100 km, 121-120 g/km CO2; fuel consumption according to WLTP2: combined 7.1-6.5 l/100 km, 161-147 g/km CO2) available from €29,200 (RRP incl. VAT in Germany). The anniversary model variant not only has assistance systems such as Cruise Control with intelligent speed limiter, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition, Hill Start Assist, Rear View Camera and Park Pilot for front and rear as standard on board. Numerous comfort features also ensure a relaxed ride. These include the multi-adjustable comfort driver and passenger seats as well as multi-stage seat heating for the front seats, heatable leather steering wheel and Solar Protect heat protection glazing in the rear. With just a glance at the exterior, the door sills with OPEL lettering, 17-inch light-alloy wheels in 5 double-spoke design and the “120 Years” logo immediately identify the Grandland X anniversary model. Comfort can be increased even further with the optional ergonomic active front seats – also in leather and with seat ventilation – and seat heating for the two outer seats in the second row. Opel thus offers first-class seating comfort for all passengers.
Early comfort: “Lutzmann” with soft leather seat bench
At the end of the 19th century, people could not even dream of such technologically sophisticated seats – the focus then was on engine-power, comfort played a subordinate role. The cars still resembled carriages, as did the seats. For instance the Opel Patentmotorwagen “System Lutzmann” of 1899: not just the entire car, but also the seats with their bolt-upright position were reminiscent of a carriage. Of course, there were no possibilities to adjust the seats yet. So instead, Opel focused on another detail that was a big comfort plus at the time: the bench seat was already luxuriously upholstered with leather.
Thirty years later in 1929, the seat in the Opel 4/20 “Moonlight Roadster” was still a rigidly fixed bench. However, it was positioned considerably lower and allowed passengers to stretch their legs out in front of them, similar to today. In the four-door model and limousine the front seats could be folded down. The next development step quickly followed with the Opel 1.8 Litre: the front seats could now be adjusted longitudinally. Brochures at the time stated: “The adjustable front seats are like club chairs: deep and cosy, with comfortable backrests.” The 1.2 Litre Regent had another standout feature: “Wide, comfortable, inviting front and rear seats. The large boot is accessed by simply folding the rear backrest forward.” So comfort combined with practical benefits was already on the agenda in 1931.
“Car seats like this were already on quite a few wish lists”: Opel Kapitän, GT and Monza
From the early 1950s the seats of the Opel Olympia were fixed to a metal frame and also longitudinally adjustable. To facilitate entry for rear passengers, the front seat backrests could be folded forward. In 1956, the Opel Kapitän L took things a step further with extra seating comfort. “The occupant of each individually adjustable front seat can recline the backrest seamlessly all the way to a horizontal position, simply by pulling a lever and leaning back,” said the description. The so-called “relax” or “reclining” seat was born. “A slight pull is all it takes to ‘customise’ the seat position.” The rails the seats slid on were mounted on an incline. This meant that the height of the seat position changed according to the longitudinal adjustment. Already back then, the significance of seats for safety was highlighted: “Especially when cornering, you really feel how these seats have the right shape and how much support they provide. The result is a pleasant and secure driving feeling that you never want to miss again.”
In 1968 the Opel GT went into series production. This legendary model sparkled with its bold sporty styling – both exterior and interior. Passengers made themselves comfortable in seats with a sporty shape. Extended seat cushions and a significantly improved shoulder section showed the direction of development. From the late 1960s, Opel gradually equipped various models with optional headrests – such as the Kadett B, Rekord C, Commodore A and Olympia A. The next important development step came in 1978: in line with the credo “Comfort is a function of technology”“, Opel introduced the height-adjustable seat in various trim variants of the Monza A and Senator A. “To guarantee every driver – regardless of height or size – their optimum personal seat position and visibility, the driver’s seat can be seamlessly adjusted in terms of longitudinal position, backrest tilt (…) and in the Senator CD even seat height”, was the description of adjustment possibilities in the Opel brochure.
Flexibility redefined: Flex7 seating system in the Opel Zafira
In the 1990s, the seats in the Opel Omega B were electrically adjustable as an option. The reinforced rear seat backrests and side airbags made an important contribution to passive safety; elaborate crash tests with a payload were conducted for the first time. Depending on the trim version, all three rear seats came with three-point seatbelts and headrests.
Opel presented a global innovation in 1999 with the introduction of the Zafira compact van featuring its on-board Flex7 seating system. For the first time, a compact seven-seat people-carrier could be transformed, in no time at all, into a two-seat transporter with a large loading area – without having to remove the seats and cumbersomely store them outside the vehicle.
Thanks to a clever mechanism, both the individual seats in the third row could be folded down flush with the floor of the boot. Then the seat cushions and backrests of the second row could be folded down, pushed up against the first row seats and secured there. This transformed the family van for seven into a load-carrier with up to 1,700 litres of transport volume (VDA – German Automotive Industry Association – standard).
With this concept, Opel raised flexibility to the next level and continued further developing it up to the lounge seating system with transversally adjustable outer seats in the middle row in the Zafira Tourer.
Good for the back: AGR-certified ergonomic seats from 2003
Relaxed travelling not only increases the well-being and safety of passengers, it is also an important health factor. The “right” seat is not only comfortable, it also supports the occupant’s back. Opel has a pioneering role amongst volume manufacturers in this area.
The company was the first automaker to offer back-friendly seats in the mid-size class in 2003, with the first AGR seal of approval for the Opel Signum. The experts for healthy seating awarded the 18-way electrically adjustable, multi-contour driver‘s seat in the Opel Vectra/Opel Signum their seal of approval.
From this moment on, the ergonomically superior seats set off on their road to success.
In 2008, the standard comfort seats in the Opel Insignia offered generous adjustment setting ranges – 65 mm (electric) for height and 270 mm longitudinally – achieving absolute best marks here. The premium driver’s seat was AGR certified.
And in 2012 the Opel Meriva was the first series production car to receive the coveted AGR seal of approval for its overall ergonomic concept: FlexDoors with an opening angle of 84 degrees, FlexSpace system, AGR certified ergonomic seats and the FlexFix bicycle carrier.
Opel also made the especially back-friendly seats available in the compact class. For the first time, the AGR-certified premium ergonomic seats in the Astra generation introduced in 2015 were not just multi-adjustable in height, longitude and tilt (including side bolster adjustment) they were also optionally available with further comfort features such as massage, ventilation and memory function.
In addition to the current Astra and Insignia variants, drivers and front-seat passengers in the top Opel Grandland X SUV can also look forward to exemplary seating comfort.
But they are not alone. All three models also feature second-row seating comfort, as optional seat heating is available for both front and outer rear seats.
Performance sports seats developed by Opel for the Insignia GSi driving machine (fuel consumption Opel Insignia GSi with 2.0 BiTurbo Diesel and 154kW/210hp according to NEDC1: urban 9.6 l/100 km, extra-urban 5.6 l/100 km, combined 7.1 l/100 km, 187-186 g/km CO2; fuel consumption according to WLTP2: combined 7.8-7.4 l/100 km, 204-193 g/km CO2) currently represents the ultimate in sportiness and ergonomics. AGR-certified Opel performance sport seat combines outstanding lateral support with top long-distance comfort and offers all the comfort features from the Insignia model line. The integral seat in the GSi also comes with ventilation, heating, a massage function (driver’s seat) and adjustable side bolsters. These features are complemented by the high backrest with integrated headrest. The longitudinal position, height, cushion tilt and backrest angle of the seat that looks like a king cobra ready to strike can all be adjusted electrically. The air cushions of the four-way lumbar support along with the variable side bolsters are also activated electrically. Developed by Opel experts for healthy seating, the performance seat is unique in its combination of sporty lateral support and comfort features.
1] WLTP measurements converted to NEDC values for comparison
[2] WLTP combined figures (for information only, not to be confused with official NEDC values)
Most successful sports coupé of 1990s: 238,647 units produced in seven years
Calibra: Real cult coupés come from Opel
Real cult coupés come from Opel. Following the successes of the Manta, Opel GT and Monza, the sleek Calibra continued Opel’s winning formula when it premiered at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in 1989, exactly 25 years ago. It was an extremely progressive concept way ahead of its time, with the best drag coefficient of all series production cars, independent wheel suspension and semi-trailing arm rear axle, optional all-wheel drive and ultra-modern gasoline engines with closed-loop-controlled catalytic converters fitted as standard. These attributes were recognized in 1990 when the Calibra won the coveted Golden Steering Wheel, Germany’s most prestigious automobile award.
Opel Calibra 2.0: Entry-level engine with 115 hp
The 2.0 liter entry-level engine with 85 kW/115 hp propelled Opel’s aerodynamic world champion to a top speed of 203 km/h, while the 150 hp, four-valve version went on to 223 km/h. Despite such impressive performance, the Calibra 16V was still able to return 7.7 l/100 km combined cycle fuel consumption. In other words, this was sporty looks and performance with no compromises – typical Opel, just like the low entry-level price of 33,900 marks.
This kind of value is, of course, a tradition for coupés from Rüsselsheim. The legendary Manta already benefitted from the high volume production technology of the Ascona, and the Calibra leveraged a similar gain from its close relative, the Opel Vectra. As a result, the Manta and the Calibra were both affordable dream cars that became cult coupés thanks to their successful recipe of sportiness with economy and reliability, and both are now much sought-after classic cars.
Design lesson: Form follows function
Opel Calibra: Wind tunnel testing
Opel Calibra united exciting design with optimized aerodynamics and uncompromised everyday practicality. The wide-opening tailgate gave easy access to a versatile, 980 liter luggage compartment. And despite its coupé format, the Calibra’s long wheelbase ensured all four occupants had plenty of space and comfort. Generous standard equipment included power steering, a five-speed close-ration gearbox, a six-speaker audio system and tinted windows. Air conditioning, a four-speed automatic transmission and an electric tilt/slide sunroof were among the options.
Top priority: Safety first
In developing the Calibra, Opel engineers were already focused on pedestrian protection, a top issue today. Trend-setting features such as the slippery body shape, rounded edges, the hidden windshield wipers and concealed roof drip moldings would become part of future vehicle design.
Safety first: Opel Calibra new ellipsoid headlamps with higher light output
Electronic ABS and sleek, new ellipsoid headlamps with a higher light output, sharp contrast and reduced light scatter improved active safety. And the large, beautifully integrated front and rear bumpers were designed to absorb plenty of impact energy in the event of an accident.
The most important models: As you like it
Powerhorse: Opel Calibra Turbo with 204 hp
At market launch in 1990, a high-quality all-wheel drive system was optionally available in addition to the standard front-wheel drive for both 2.0 liter gasoline engines. The Calibra 4x4 impressed with excellent traction, superb braking stability and ultra-safe driving behavior. They were qualities that deserved even more power under the hood – and in March 1992 Opel made waves when the Calibra Turbo entered dealerships at a highly-competitive price of 49,800 marks. All-wheel drive, a six-speed gearbox, sports seats and 16-inch light alloy wheels with wide, 205/50 tires all came as standard. But the big story was the 2.0 liter turbo engine pumping out 204 hp (150 kW) with a massive torque ‘curve’ that resembled the elevated plateau of Table Mountain in Cape Town. In short, whenever the driver of a Calibra Turbo knocked on the door, there was always someone at home!
Six pointer: Opel Calibra 2.5 V6 with 170 hp
The Calibra’s Keke Rosberg Edition is, of course, legendary. Just in time for its works debut in the German Touring Car Masters (1993/94), Opel introduced the new 125 kW/170 hp, 2.5 V6 Calibra, together with 2.0 liter four-cylinder variants in Opel’s white-yellow DTM look. Customers who chose a Calibra Cliff Motorsport Edition in May 1996 were way ahead of the game. Its paintwork was the same as the Class 1 racing car in which Manuel Reuter would win the ITC championship – successor series to the DTM with World Championship status – for Opel at the end of the season. The street-legal Cliff racer had a 20 mm lower sports chassis, BBS light alloy wheels (7J x 16) and a price advantage of 3,601 marks.
For real fans: Opel Calibra Cliff Motorsport Edition
Grand finale: Last Edition
Just one year after its ITC success, the Calibra entered another home stretch, this time towards the end of production. After 222,000 registrations since 1990, a special limited volume Last Edition was created as a final chapter in the Calibra story. It could be ordered until the end of April 1997 and came with a sports chassis, BBS wheels, leather trim and air conditioning to provide a luxurious experience. The engine choice comprised the 2.5 liter V6 or a 136 hp/100 kW, 2.0 liter, four-cylinder unit.
Last but not least: Opel Calibra Last Edition
August 29, 1997 marked the official end of production. After seven years, 238,647 Calibras had been produced at the main plant in Rüsselsheim, and also at Valmet in Uusikaupunki, Finland. To meet high customer demand, the production run in 1990 was increased to 60,000 units from a planned volume of 20,000, with part of this being produced at Valmet Automotive.
The Calibra’s biggest markets were Germany, the UK, Italy, Spain and France. The 115 hp entry-level model led the sales charts with production totaling more than 130,000 units, followed by the 150 hp, 2.0 liter version, of which more than 61,000 were built.
Opel Calibra was most successful sports coupé of 1990s: 238,647 units produced in seven years
Fittingly, it was a black Last Edition with a 2.0 liter, four-valve engine which rolled off the assembly line as the final Calibra to be made. Today, Opel Classic enjoys showing this car at many Youngtimer events, where the beautiful coupé always ends up a crowd favorite.
Opel plant in Thuringia celebrates impressive production milestone
Minister President Lieberknecht and CEO Neumann special guests
1.2 billion euros invested since begin of vehicle production in 1990
Three million cars from Eisenach – this milestone was celebrated today at the Adam Opel AG plant in Thuringia. Many prominent guests including Minister President Christine Lieberknecht attended the event.
The three millionth Opel from Eisenach is an ADAM – here with Minister President of Thuringia Christine Lieberknecht, ADAM Cup driver Lina Van de Mars and Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann.
The star of the day was a white Opel ADAM with an Arden Blue roof that rolled off the assembly line at 11:30 a.m. to a huge round of applause. Behind the wheel was a woman who knows how to handle the ADAM, as she drives it in the Opel Rallye Cup: TV host Lina Van de Mars.
The three millionth Opel from Eisenach is an ADAM. From left to right: Plant Director Elvira Tölkes, head of the works council Bernd Lösche, ADAM Cup driver Lina Van de Mars, Minister President Christine Lieberknecht and Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann.
The first car off the assembly line in Opel Eisenach was an Opel Vectra presented right after German reunification in 1990. A total of 1.2 billion euros have been invested in Eisenach since the start of production – most recently nearly 200 million euros for the Opel ADAM.
Already more than 80,000 units of the lifestyle mini have been ordered across Europe since its launch last year – a sure-fire success for the plant that, together with the Corsa, ensures high capacity utilization and good future prospects. According to Opel CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, the decision to produce the ADAM in the Eisenach plant was exactly right: “It is a tour de force to build a car like the ADAM in absolute top quality. With all its possibilities for individualization, it poses great challenges in terms of planning, logistics and production. Opel is the only automaker to develop and build a small car in Germany.”
Minister President Christine Lieberknecht underlined the important role Opel plays in the region as an employer and driving force for the establishment of other industries: “Opel Eisenach is an integral part of Thuringia! We want the Eisenach plant’s success story to continue! For generations now, reliability and quality have defined Opel products, and have even made them real cult objects. And the ADAM also has what it takes to become a cult car.”
The three millionth Opel from Eisenach is an ADAM – here with the employees of the Eisenach plant and guests of honor at the event.
From the very beginning, Eisenach was a plant that made waves in the industry. A new production system that ensured highest quality with short throughput times was implemented here. The plant set standards – for example with employee involvement, continuous improvements and a sophisticated logistics system. Already in 1993, GM selected the Opel Eisenach plant to serve as a training center for the Group. More than 16,500 employees from around the world have been to Thuringia to familiarize themselves with state-of-the-art production processes. Eisenach has also attracted prominent guests, from Chancellor Helmut Kohl (1990 and 1992) to US President Bill Clinton (1998).
Eisenach will continue to play an important role for Opel and GM. Plant Director Elvira Tölkes says, “We will further develop our quality, efficiency and competitiveness as we position the Eisenach plant for continued success in the future.”
Market leader in highly competitive mid-size class
Opel Vectra A GL hatchback, 1988
Everything about the Opel Vectra was new when it hit the streets in the fall of 1988 – exactly 25 years ago: the name, the shape and the technology it encapsulated. Opel’s new mid-size model had a tough act to follow in replacing the successful Ascona, which was introduced in 1970 and had evolved through three model generations. The Vectra’s name and its aerodynamic design were inspired by the progressive looks of the Omega. Available as a notchback and hatchback, the Vectra introduced new technologies in series production: it was the first Opel model which could be ordered with all-wheel drive. And by the model change in the late summer of 1995, the Vectra A had won more than 20 national and international awards, provided the technical base for the Calibra sports coupé and achieved up to 20 percent market share at its peak. With 2.5 million units sold across Europe, the Vectra was the most successful mid-size model in Opel’s history until then.
Opel Vectra A GL notchback, 1988
Progressive in design, advanced in technology
More than 3.9 million Asconas had been sold during its 18 year production run, but when the Vectra arrived 25 years ago it was the future, consigning the Ascona to its place in history. Only its front-wheel drive layout and size was carried over, while space was dramatically increased. With five seats and 530 liters of trunk volume, the new Vectra rivaled Opel’s high-end Senator model. And when the rear seatbacks were folded down, load volume increased to 840 liters.
Opel invested over five million hours of development time in creating the Vectra, with 20,000 hours alone devoted to perfecting the aerodynamics of its slippery new body shape. Boasting an impressive drag coefficient of just 0.29, the Vectra was one of the most aerodynamic cars in its class, just like its role model, the Omega, which had brought advanced design language and a new nomenclature into the Opel model portfolio in 1986. The Vectra, conceived for the European market of the 1990s, was “progressive in design, leading in aerodynamics and advanced in technology”, according to the press kit.
Opel Vectra A notchback 1.8 S 4x4
Changes in construction were numerous. In addition to an optional, newly developed, electronically controlled four-speed automatic transmission with three driving modes (economy, sport and winter), the Vectra was the first Opel passenger car available with a factory-fitted All-Wheel-Drive system (AWD). Developed in co-operation with Steyr-Daimler-Puch, the system featured a viscous coupling that enabled variable power distribution to the rear axle according to driving and road conditions, and a multi-disk clutch that decoupled the rear axle during braking, thus guaranteeing high directional stability.
Vectra A 4x4 was the first Opel passenger car available with factory fitted All-Wheel Drive system.
Optional all-wheel drive was available for the Vectra with 1.8 or 2.0-liter engines. The top-of-the-line model was the four-door Vectra 2000 16V 4x4, with a 150 hp, 2.0 liter DOHC four-cylinder unit with four-valve technology, all-wheel drive, electronically controlled ABS, a semi-trailing-arm rear axle with independent rear suspension from the Omega, and disc brakes fitted all-round. The 215 km/h Vectra 2000 16V was also available only with front-wheel drive, and it occupied a special place in the Vectra range, with a sporty character similar to the Kadett GSi and Omega 3000 models.
Opel Vectra A 2000 16V
The Vectra came standard with a 75 hp, four-cylinder 1.6 liter OHC engine and a lambda-probe-equipped three-way catalyst. More powerful models were the four-cylinder with 1.8 liters and 88 hp and the 2.0 i CAT engine with 115 hp. The 1.7-liter diesel with 57 hp was new to the range. The Vectra was offered in two body styles – as a classic, four-door notchback and as a five-door hatchback model – and four equipment lines. The notchback was available as a GL, GLS or luxury CD, and the hatchback in GL and sporty GT versions. A dynamic lifestyle station wagon like the Voyage from the first Ascona generation was not offered.
Sporty Opel Vectra GT was offered in two body styles – as a classic, four-door notchback and as a five-door hatchback
Market leader in the mid-size class
During the first model year, 364,000 units of the Opel Vectra and its British sister model Vauxhall Cavalier were built. In the late summer of 1989, the dynamically styled coupé version, the Calibra, was introduced. The Vectra served as the technical base for the sporty two-door coupé. After just 30 months, in April 1991, the one-millionth vehicle rolled off the assembly line.
The continuous further development of the model range, which at times was produced simultaneously in Germany, Belgium, the UK and Turkey, played a major role in this success. In 1990 the powertrain portfolio was expanded with a newly developed 1.8 liter four-cylinder with fuel injection and lambda-probe-equipped catalyst (90 hp) as well as a 1.7 liter turbo diesel (82 hp). From June 1992 the Vectra was the only car in its class in Europe to feature ABS as standard, and in August 1992 the bestseller was given a more modern look with a newly designed front, color-coded bumpers as well as optimized safety equipment with standard seat-belt pretensioners and side impact protection in the doors.
Opel Vectra A 2000 16V 4x4
In 1993 the model line got two completely new, innovative and very differently designed top models within just six months. In the spring of 1993 the luxurious Vectra V6 was introduced, the first Opel model in its class offered with a six-cylinder engine. The V6 power plant was also a premiere for the company: the 2.5-liter, 170 hp 24V ECOTEC unit was the first Opel engine with V-cylinder arrangement. The Vectra GT 16V with 150 hp replaced the Vectra 2000 as the model line’s sporty spearhead.
In the fall of 1993 the Vectra family grew again with the Vectra turbo. It featured the top Calibra model’s propulsion technology and combined the established all-wheel drive with a standard six-speed manual transmission and a supercharged 2.0 liter four-cylinder engine with 204 hp. The turbo was the only member of the first Vectra generation to reach a top speed of 240 km/h and come with 6 J x 16 light alloy wheels as standard.
Opel Vectra A 2.0 16V Turbo 4x4, 1993
The last update already anticipated the future. In the spring of 1994 the Vectra CDX was presented with a newly-developed 2.0 liter 16 V four-cylinder engine with 136 hp that was also used in the successor Vectra B model. At this time in its seventh year of production, the Vectra A was number 2 in European registration statistics. When it was replaced in model year 1996, around 2.5 million units had been sold, making it the most successful car in the mid-size class at the time.
