Paul Tan's Automotive News » Opel

Funny looking Opel Combo van is a rebadged Fiat Doblo

Danny Tan — Fri, 15 Jul 2011 05:04:20 +0000

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These are first official pictures of the next generation Opel Combo, which rivals the Renault Kangoo and Peugeot Partner, among other compact vans. It will replace the current Combo, which has served since 2001. The new Combo is no longer based on the Corsa supermini, but is a rebadged Fiat Doblo, saving costs for both brands.

The panel van version now offers a choice of two wheelbases – 2,755 mm or 3,105 mm – giving an overall vehicle length of 4.39 and 4.74 metres respectively, as well as two roof heights, 1.85 m or 2.10 m. The Combo is also available as a car-van, with five or seven seats and a paneled or glazed body.

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Van variants can be ordered with one or two optional sliding doors, while the “car” version has both sliding doors as standard and comes with a top-hinged tailgate. An asymmetrical double wing door is also available. An additional rear roof hatch can be installed to transport ladders, for example. With up to 3,800 litres of space in SWB form and 4,600 litres with the LWB, the Combo offers the largest load volume in both classes.

The new Opel Combo is available with six engines: four diesels, one 95 hp 1.4 petrol and a Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) unit. The diesel range comprises 1.3 and 1.6 CDTI motors, each with 90 hp, as well as a 1.6 CDTI with 105 hp. The top performer is the 135 hp 2.0 CDTI. The CDTI engines only need to be serviced every 35,000 km or once a year.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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GM won’t sell Opel to an European rival

Anthony Lim — Wed, 15 Jun 2011 04:12:44 +0000

Well, will they, or won’t they? The rumour mill has been going on about talk that potential buyers are looking to take Opel off General Motors’ hands, Beijing Automotive Industry Holding being one name bandied about.

Now, GM’s CEO Daniel Akerson has assured the head of Opel that the American automaker was not in talks to sell the European arm to a rival, according to reports. German newspaper Handelsblatt had originally reported that Akerson spoke with Opel CEO Karl-Friedrich Stracke on the telephone.

The media has been speculating that GM is considering putting Opel and its UK sister brand Vauxhall up for sale – with Volkswagen and BAIC named as possible buyers – because Akerson is impatient with the slow pace of restructuring at the money-losing division, which lost US$1.6 bil last year. .

GM has so far not commented on the reports, despite calls to do so, but people familiar with the matter have revealed that GM was reviewing options for the European automaker, the reports add. Going with the above, it would seem VW won’t be in the picture should GM decide to sell Opel.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Astra GTC revealed ahead of Frankfurt premiere

Danny Tan — Tue, 07 Jun 2011 09:10:24 +0000

Opel/Vauxhall has released details on the Astra GTC ahead of the model’s world debut at the Frankfurt show in September. The GTC is a three-door variant of the C-segment Astra, but isn’t the same car with two doors lopped off – the only bits carried over from the five-door hatch are the door handles, wing mirror housing and roof aerial. This approach is also used by VW for the Scirocco and the Renault for the Megane Coupe – cars the GTC will rival.

The Astra GTC started life as the GTC Paris Concept from Paris 2010, and retains much of the showcar’s looks. However, it must be said that the showcar appeared incredibly realistic from the start, and its production future was never in doubt.

Prominent design cues include the Opel signature blade (started with the Insignia) and another line that sprouts from the door handles. The front and rear lights have “wing shaped” elements. All of these were also on the Paris Concept.

Opel is keen to highlight the GTC’s front High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut) suspension, similar to than on the Insignia OPC. Compared to the standard Astra’s McPherson strut, HiPerStrut reduces kingpin inclination and offset and has a shorter spindle length. This improves grip and reduces torque steer, offering GTC drivers the “sporty, crisp feel they expect, with enhanced precision and feedback.” In addition, HiPerStut reduces tyre flops, which allows the car to accommodate bigger wheels.

The rear suspension combines a torsion beam with a Watt’s link, something unique to Opel. Compared to the five-door, ride height is lowered by 15 mm. The GTC also has wider tracks, +40 mm in front and +30 mm in the rear. Opel’s adaptive FlexRide chassis control system with Standard, Tour and Sport modes is also available.

At launch, the Poland built Astra GTC can be had with a choice of four powertrains – one diesel and three petrol. The upgraded 2.0 CDTI has 165 hp/380 Nm and does 0-100 km/h in 8.9 seconds. Top speed is 210 km/h. Paired with a six-speed manual and start/stop, combined fuel consumption “does not exceed” 4.9 litres per 100 km.

Two of the petrols are 1.4 turbos with 120 hp and 140 hp. Both have 200 Nm of torque. There’s also a 180 hp 1.6 turbo that can reach 220 km/h. Not enough? There will be a high-performance OPC variant in 2012.

Gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Astra GTC set for production, to debut in Frankfurt

Anthony Lim — Wed, 27 Apr 2011 02:31:10 +0000

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Opel has released the first images of its Astra GTC, which is based on the GTC Paris Concept unveiled at the Paris Motor Show last October. The Astra GTC has been given the nod for series production, and the company is set to give the car its world debut in Frankfurt in September.

Full details of the production version will be announced in June, which will give European customers the chance to specify their ideal model and place an order early for the vehicle, which will appear in showrooms relatively soon after the Frankfurt debut.

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The production Opel/Vauxhall Astra GTC will be a three-door body hatch with dramatic proportions, much like the rakish concept that previewed it. The Paris car wore a turbocharged, direct-injection four-cylinder mill offering an estimated 290 hp – we’ll have to wait and see what the final form wears.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Zafira Tourer Concept offers glimpse of third-gen MPV

Anthony Lim — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 08:25:35 +0000

Opel will be premiering its Zafira Tourer Concept at the Geneva Motor Show, and the vehicle is expected to provide the basis for the production third-generation version of the compact MPV, which will arrive in Opel and Vauxhall forms sometime early next year.

The concept is powered by a new version of the downsized, fuel-efficient 1.4 Turbo pot featuring Start/Stop technology, while among the items found in the vehicle’s underpinnings is a FlexRide adaptive damping system.

Externally, things start with a colour scheme called Frost Liquid Metal, a special metallic silver-grey, and the Zafira Tourer Concept features, among other things, dark metallic grey 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels with 245/40 R20 tyres and wing-shaped LED daytime running lights, bi-xenon AFL and fog lamps – all contained behind a single Plexiglass cover – at the front.

Of course, it’s in the interior where all the action is – the concept features a cabin with generous space for rear-seat passengers and a light, airy outlook, provided by a panoramic windscreen that flows into a generous glass roof extending to the rear of the car.

A second pane of high-tech composite material is edge-lit by LEDs. Tiny metallic particles are embedded in the cabin’s upper sections to reflect the light and give off a warm glow that can be varied in different shades of yellow.

The seating configuration is versatile enough, so to speak. With two rows in place, providing five-seat capacity, the Zafira concept can be transformed at the push of a button into a four-seater with limousine levels of space. A folding mechanism allows the centre section of the second row to fold down, revealing two armrests for occupants in the outer seats. These seats can then slide back and towards each other.

The concept’s tiltable three-piece headrests are electrically powered, though the driver’s remains in a vertical position when the car is in motion. In the ‘lounge’ setting, each swivels 90 degrees to the horizontal position while the outer elements curve slightly forward.

Up front, a large touchscreen display dominates the centre console, above which a covered storage compartment can hold a tablet PC like an iPad. With pivot-mounted tablet PCs on the front seat backs, passengers in the second row can comfortably surf the internet or control multimedia apps.

The interior is finished in high-quality caramel leather for the seats, with colour-matched quilted seams and stitching contrasting with cocoa dark brown door trim, soft deep-pile carpet and a host of premium materials.

Gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Facelifted Opel/Vauxhall Corsa is a big fan of the Mazda2!

Danny Tan — Wed, 24 Nov 2010 04:00:14 +0000

Opel has facelifted its Corsa supermini (Vauxhall Corsa in the UK), which first came on the scene in 2006. GM’s 2011 model year B-segment contender to the Polo, Clio and Fiesta gets a “sportier, expressive look” to cloak the internal updates for 2010 cars, which got new engines, upgraded suspension and retuned steering.

The facelift re-proportions the upper and lower grilles. The lower one is wider and taller to visually widen the car. In addition, a mesh grille design replaces the current horizontal bars while the chrome “wings” of the Opel logo is bigger. The German brand has also added “eagle eye” headlamps along with signature wing-shaped daylight lamps that made their debut in the Insignia. Six new alloy designs and a larger Opel Blitz logo at the rear are included as well.

There are also new fog lamp units with “integrated chrome blades” that really reminds me of the Mazda2; the green colour on the Corsa helps the visual link to its Japanese classmate too. What do you think? See the familiar smiley face?

All variants have been updated with new trim or fabrics. The new Touch & Connect navigation system has a five-inch touch screen that displays both 2D and 3D bird view maps from SD navigation cards. Features include an option to choose the most ecological route and the proposal of alternative routes when faced with traffic, even when navigation is not active. It’s Bluetooth, iPod and USB compatible, too.

Gallery after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Paris 2010: Opel GTC Paris dreams to be hot hatch king

Danny Tan — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 22:10:44 +0000

This is the Opel GTC Paris concept car, described as a showcase of how Opel can “dial up” the brand’s design language via a “sporty and emotional interpretation”. This concept previews the upcoming three-door hatchback version of the current Opel/Vauxhall Astra.

Following the likes of Renault with its Megane, the GTC is more than just a five-door Astra with two doors lopped off. Like the Megane Coupe, it’s a compact, rakish and highly stylised three-door. The brand’s recent signature blade sweeps back from the front, like in the Insignia and unlike the five-door Astra. Another design line starts from the door handle flowing back to join the rear lights. Opel says the car has a “bulldog stance”. Short and fat?

The interior has some interesting ideas. The driver’s seat is in red while the passenger’s is in black. They even have calligraphy laser etched on them. The script reads “and the speed was pure beauty”, a quote from Richard Bach’s novel, Jonathan Livingstone Seagull.

Speed wouldn’t be a problem. The GTC has a twin-scroll turbo 2.0-litre with direct injection. This 290 hp motor with double camshaft phasing and twin balance shafts is paired with a six-speed manual transmission. Start/stop is standard, as is a Limited Slip Differential for extra traction. The GTC Paris also features FlexRide adaptive suspension that continuously adapts to changes in driving style and cornering speed.

Nice ingredients for a hot VXR variant. Official pics are here while live images come after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Paris-bound Opel GTC Concept pumps out 290hp

Jacob Alexander — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 09:18:31 +0000

Opel has released more information and pictures of the GTC Concept ahead of the Paris Motor Show. The German-based company, who sell their cars in the UK under the Vauxhall brand, has revealed details about the car’s power figures. The GTC Concept’s turbocharged 2.0-litre four-pot engine is able to generate 290hp. This is mated to a 6-speed manual transmission that complements its power with a limited slip differential.

Help keeping the car stable is Opel’s FlexRide suspension and a crank rear axle with a Watt’s link. The GTC show car for Paris sits on 21-inch wheels, optimized with carbon-fiber inserts which enclose the center caps. This is finished off in a liquid metal red exterior colour scheme.

A picture gallery with interior images is available after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel GTC Paris Concept previews three-door Astra hatch

Danny Tan — Wed, 08 Sep 2010 05:17:20 +0000

This is the Opel GTC Paris Concept that will be unwrapped at the Paris Motor Show next month. Much more than just a show car, it previews the three-door hatchback version and the VXR performance flagship of the current Opel/Vauxhall Astra, which made its debut last year as a five-door hatch. A wagon version called Sport Tourer surfaced in June.

This rakish three-door measures 4.46 metres long (slightly longer than the five-door) and the lines on its body is “similar to tendons in a sprinter”. We can see the “Opel signature blade”, a fine crease along the rocker panel, in the same direction as on the Insignia, where this cue first appeared. The five-door hatch and Sport Tourer have theirs in a different direction – back to front.

There’s also another prominent line that shoots from the door handles to the rear of the car; this gives the GTC broad shoulders and wider impression. Opel says that the brushed aluminium upper outline of the glasshouse guides eyes to the integrated spoiler. Of course they had to include LED running lights, and those on the GTC have “wing” motifs.

The concept is realistically powered by a four-cylinder, 2.0-litre turbo engine with direct injection. As with most new cars in Europe, there’s start/stop tech and a six-speed manual gearbox. Autocar UK says that the production car will debut late next year alongside a VXR range topper, which could have up to 300 bhp and an electronic limited-slip differential – the latter already on the GTC concept.

The GTC and the three-door Renault Megane are examples of carmakers putting in a lot of effort on differentiating their three-door “Sport” models from the regular five-door hatch, instead of just chopping off two doors. More pics after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel is coming to China and the rest of Asia Pacific!

Jacob Alexander — Tue, 31 Aug 2010 08:25:24 +0000

Opel, who are under GM’s European division, have announced plans of selling the brands in China. This will eventually open up to countries in the Asia Pacific region, Australia and South America. Current GM brands in China, include Buick, Cadillac and Chevrolet.

“We will market Opel as a European designed car in the premium segment. There are a growing number of Chinese who like European cars and have the money to afford them,” said company spokesman Andreas Kroemer talking to a German publication.

They have yet to set a date for sales to begin, but the company has previously sold around 4000 cars in the country as a testing phase. Currently the only other way you could get an Opel car in China was through Buick, which included the Opel Insignia-based Buick Regal in its product portfolio.

This will soon change and analysts predict that Opel will initially export cars to China until it has established a market position in the country. It will then assemble cars locally to avoid import taxes, which usually increases the price of the car by 20 percent.

Due to it being marketed as a premium brand, Opel will be competing against the likes of BMW, Daimler and Volkswagen who have been in China for sometime now. It seems that if ever the German-made brand make a return to Malaysia, it will be priced to compete at the premium level, and not the affordable category it’s priced at in Europe.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Astra Sport Tourer – same footprint, more load space

Jacob Alexander — Wed, 16 Jun 2010 11:13:32 +0000

GM’s loss making Opel/Vauxhall arm was left disappointed after the German government rejected its request for 1.1 billion euros in loan guarantees, leaving Opel to hope on German states where its factories are located to provide financial assistance. But life goes on, and GM Europe has released official images and info on the Opel Astra Sports Tourer, which will make its public debut at the Paris Motor Show and go on sale in November.

The Sports Tourer is the wagon version of the popular C-segment Astra hatchback, which has collected over 160,000 orders in six months. It’s an important car for Opel, as wagons traditionally account for about 25% of Astra sales in Europe, higher than the segment average of 17%.

Load volume can be easily adjusted between 500 and 1,550 litres via the FlexFold Rear Seat system, which allows each section of the 60/40 split-fold rear seatbacks to be lowered at the press of a button located in the side walls of the cargo area. A spring is electrically released, activating quick, remote seat folding. With the seatbacks down, the cargo load length is increased to 1,835 mm, 28 mm more than the current Astra wagon. Besides that, occupants enjoy 25 litres of extra storage space inside the cabin.

Opel says that this wagon offers the same level of comfort and agility as the hatchback. First, its footprint and 2,685 mm wheelbase is unchanged while the rear compound crank/Watt’s link suspension has been modified for higher load capabilities and better support during cornering. In addition, FlexRide adaptive suspension provides a choice between standard, sports and touring modes and Trailer Stability Assist counteracts the tail wind produced when lugging a caravan trailer.

Engine options include eight petrol and diesel units. New to the range are two 1.4-litre turbocharged petrols; a 120 bhp six-speed manual and a 140 bhp six-speed auto. Sure to be more popular that those is the 2.0 CDTi with 180 bhp and 380 Nm of torque. This diesel option comes with an overboost button and sips only 5.1 litres of fuel for every 100 km (19.6 km/l). All manual transmission cars have a gear shift indicator coaxing you to drive economically.

More pictures after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel rolls out first pre-production Ampera in the US

Harvinder Sidhu — Tue, 27 Apr 2010 02:20:05 +0000

Opel has rolled out the first pre-production Ampera hybrid at General Motors’ Warren plant in Michigan on April 23rd. The pre-production Ampera will not be sold but it will be used for further testing before the final production version is revealed sometime next year. General Motors also said that it will produce more pre-production Amperas.

The Ampera is heavily based on the Chevrolet Volt which means it utilizes an electric motor which draws out energy from batteries. The system also has a small displacement internal combustion engine that is used as an energy generator to help recharge the batteries when required. There is also a plug-in recharging system as well as brake energy regeneration.

It can deliver 60 kilometers of range with electric power alone and with the range extender total range is figured at about 500 kilometers. Andrew Farah, Vehicle Chief Engineer for the vehicle said, “We’re right on target for producing the Ampera for European markets later next year. There’s still work to be done, but being able to drive an Opel Ampera off our pre-production line is a great accomplishment for the teams here and in Europe.”

Continue reading to view 3 high-res images of the pre-production Ampera.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Flextreme GT/E is a “big Chevrolet Volt”

Danny Tan — Thu, 18 Feb 2010 17:34:21 +0000

This is the Flextreme GT/E concept car that will be Opel’s showstar at the Geneva show next month. Using the Chevrolet Volt’s extended range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology, the 4.7-metre Flextreme is the first big bodied housing for the E-REV drivetrain.

As a recap, the wheels of E-REV cars are powered by electricity at all times (unlike hybrids). For journeys up to 60 km, energy is supplied by a lithium-ion battery pack. However, unlike regular EVs, E-REV will continue running when the battery is depleted, as a small gasoline engine then acts as a generator to provide current. GM says that this arrangement “eliminates any possibility of range anxiety through fear of being stranded without power”. Charging the Flextreme via a 230V outlet takes less than three hours.

The Flextreme GT/E has a drag co-efficient of just 0.22, which helps it reach a 200 km/h-plus top speed. Weight reduction measures include the use of carbon composite panels, polycarbonate window glazing and aluminum alloy structural components. 370 Nm of torque comes in at 0 rpm to propel the Flextreme to 100 km/h below nine seconds.

More pictures after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Vauxhall/Opel Meriva interior unveiled!

Paul Tan — Tue, 19 Jan 2010 01:51:13 +0000

GM’s European unit have unveiled the interior for its new Vauxhall/Opel Meriva compact MPV! The Meriva is an MPV in the B-segment, built on GM’s Gamma/SCCS platform so I don’t think its a Zafira replacement, which is a C-segment vehicle.

A key feature of the Meriva being touted extensively in press releases (and probably soon ad campaigns) are the vehicle’s FlexDoors, which are basically rear-hinged suicide doors for the rear doors. GM says this provides easier access into the interior, and it’s probably one of the very few examples of suicide doors on a concept car making it to production. But since the B-pillar remains, I don’t see how it being rear-hinged changes anything.

The Meriva will also have a ‘FlexRail’ system which is basically a storage zone for random items like handbags, books, iPods, sunglasses, etc. FlexRail’s floor module comprises two cup holders, Aux-in/USB connections and a 12-volt socket.

Above this area, there are two polished aluminum rails, and on the top of the line SE model, there is a flip-top armrest module attached with a smaller cupholder tray below it. Both can be shifted into a variety of fixed positions along the rails, while rear seat passengers benefit from the option of a rear armrest module, which can be fitted to the centre seat back section when it’s folded down between them.

And finally the final ‘Flex’ feature is FlexSpace, which allows various cabin configs without having to remove any seats. Both outer rear seats can be moved fore and aft individually, and can also slide inwards o provide more shoulder width and leg room in a spacious four-seat layout. Additionally, rear seat backs can be fully lowered without having to remove their head restraints. The Meriva’s boot capacity grows from 400 litres up to 920 litres with the seatbacks folded. If you use all the space up to the roof, 1500 litres of capacity is available.

The Meriva strikes an uncanny resemblance to the Suzuki MPV concept shown in India this month but that could be due to the fact that GM used to have some kind of stake in Suzuki. But Suzuki is in bed with Volkswagen now.

Look after the jump for hi-res images of the new Meriva.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Vauxhall Meriva leaked pics: suicide doors retained!

Danny Tan — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:14:28 +0000

These are leaked official images of the new Meriva MPV, badged here as a UK-spec Vauxhall (Opel in Europe). It appears to have survived the transition from concept to production pretty well, retaining much of the 2008 Geneva show’s Meriva Concept styling cues.

The design headline here is the suicide doors. Called FlexDoors, they can be opened to an angle of almost 90 degrees (only when the vehicle is stationary, of course!). The Meriva’s FlexSpace system has been updated to improve space usage. There is also an innovation called FlexRail – a rail above the centre console where storage bins can slide the length of the cabin.

As with the Astra and Insignia, a signature “blade” runs on the flanks of this MPV. The stepped windowline not only adds distinctiveness to the design, it gives the rear section more glass area for the kids to have a better view out. There’s also a full length panaromic roof. It’s more spacious than before too – wheelbase is longer and tracks are wider. A five-star EuroNCAP crash rating is almost a given.

The Meriva is set for its formal debut at this year’s Geneva show, and should hit the market by mid year. More pictures after the jump!

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Astra launched in China as the Buick Excelle

Danny Tan — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:12:19 +0000

Chinese market tastes have become increasingly sophisticated over the past few years, and any first time visitor to Shanghai or Beijing would be surprised by the automobiles that ply their bumpy roads – turn up expecting little Cherys and Geelys and you’ll instead find large saloons from Buick, VW and Audi dominating the streets. In fact, GM’s Buick marque is one of the top-10 brands there, and is seen by the Chinese as a prestigious status symbol.

And that’s the reason why the even the Chevrolet Optra sells well in China, after being rebranded as a Buick Excelle. But as the Opel Insignia based Regal showed, Chinese Buicks now have real substance under the skin, and the new Excelle unveiled at the Guangzhou Motor Show is based on the sixth-gen Opel Astra, itself fresh in the market in Europe.

Three petrol engines are available, but of interest is the turbocharged 1.6-litre four-cylinder that powers the range topping model. It comes with 183bhp and 235Nm of torque available from 1,980rpm to 5,400rpm, and there’s a ‘Superboost’ function that raises max torque to 266Nm, promising serious performance that should match VW’s Twincharger powered cars. Power goes to the front wheels via a six-speed automatic. It’s not announced, but we won’t be surprised if the suspension (front MacPherson struts, rear torsion beam with Watt’s linkage) is tuned softer for Chinese preference.

The Astra is the largest car in the Golf/Focus class with the longest wheelbase (2614mm) and its cabin features GM’s new design languange with the ‘dual-cockpit’ style, also seen in the Insignia and Chevrolet Cruze. Speaking of the Chevy Cruze, it was meant to be launched back in August, but we haven’t heard any news from Hicom-Chevrolet so far.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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GM flip-flops its Opel-Magna deal

Paul Tan — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 18:23:33 +0000

Vauxhall/Opel Insignia, voted 2009 Car of the Year (Europe)

GM must have caught the flip flop disease from somewhere as it has at the last minute turned back on its decision to sell Opel to a Russian-backed group led by auto parts supplier Magna International, which took months and months of negotiation so far.

The deal was looking to be pretty much set in stone and Magna’s existing clientele had expressed unhappiness over a supplier suddenly becoming a competitor as well. Magna’s client list includes Volkswagen, GM, Ford, Chrysler, Daimler and BMW amongst others. Volkswagen had threatened to pull the plug on Magna’s VW group supply contracts if the Opel deal went through but it looks like now there would not be such a conflict.

Now because of “an improving business environment and the importance of its GM Europe divisions to its global strategy”, it has decided to turn back on its offer to sell. It would instead restructure its Opel division on its own, at a cost of 3 billion Euros. Where this money will come from is a big question now, as it most likely will not be able to rely on promises of financing that European governments had promised earlier.

European governments had granted financing from state banks in view that Opel would be in Magna’s ‘safer’ hands, and are now pretty pissed off that GM had pulled the old classic bait and switch tactic on them. Obviously the financing were granted assuming Opel would be in Magna’s hands soon. Germany’s government said it wanted GM to repay 1.5 billion Euro in bridge financing by the end of this month. Germany had offered a total of 4.5 billion euros in financial aid for the Magna deal. Opel workers are also pissed off as in their view now their jobs are less secure and held a protest, carrying black coffins with GM and Opel logos on them.

GM Europe president and ex-BMW man Carl-Peter Forster immediately left the company Friday last week after the announcement of the sale flip-flop. “A sudden shift like this is scarcely comprehensible. I do not find the process in any way okay. I would have wished for a completely different result,” said Forster. He clearly did not want to be any part of an Opel that remained under GM rule, and apparently he has already been offered a job with Tata-owned Jaguar Land Rover.

Magna had nothing else to say but this – “We will continue to support Opel and GM in the challenges ahead and wish to thank everyone who supported the Opel restructuring process for their tireless efforts and dedication over the past several months.”

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel reveals the interior of its 2010 Astra

Harvinder Sidhu — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 02:39:08 +0000

German-based and General Motors-owned auto maker Opel, has released interior shots of its 2010 Astra, ahead of its official launch at this year’s auto show in Frankfurt. The sixth generation Opel Astra, which will also be sold under the Vauxhall brand name features a fresh interior that not only looks good, but one that is functional as well.

Design wise, the interior is treated to, among others, red ambient lighting (from above the centre console and within the door handle recesses), a four-gauge instrument panel with chrome outline on each gauge plus an LCD trip display and soft-touch surfaces. The auto maker assured that the interior offers a high-quality ‘feel’ with the materials used, as well as with tactility offered by the buttons and switches.

With the lack of storage areas in the previous model acknowledged as a problem, the new one comes with various storage solutions, including a sun glass case inserted above the door opening on the driver’s side, pen holders, a two-part glove box, under-seat drawer (for passenger seat), centre console with a 9-CD holding capacity and more.

Featuring a platform that is also used in the Chevrolet Cruze, the new Astra is expected to be offered with a number of engine options including a base 1.4 litre normally aspirated petrol, a 120HP – 140HP with 175Nm – 200Nm of torque 1.4 litre Turbo as well as a 180HP 1.6 litre Turbo that is carried over from the Insignia. There will also be a few turbo diesel engines including a 1.3 litre, a 1.7 litre as well as a 2.0 litre version. Continue reading to view an image gallery.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Vauxhall Insignia VXR Sports Tourer revealed!

Paul Tan — Wed, 20 May 2009 19:06:29 +0000

The new Vauxhall Insignia VXR Sports Tourer packs the practicality of a wagon with an electrical tailgate, the traction of all-wheel drive, the massive power of a turbocharged engine and the sweet sound of a V6 all in one vehicle.

The 2.8 litre turbocharged V6 from the top of the line Insignia originally producing 260 PS has been modified to make more power in the Insignia VXR. It now produces 325 PS, and this is put down to all wheels via an Adaptive 4X4 system and an eLSD (electronic limited slip differential). 0 to 100km/h takes 6 seconds.

Other changes with the VXR variant include a ride height that is 10mm lower, and a system called HiPerStrut, which is said to reduce torque steer and maintain negative camber during cornering, thereby improving wet and dry grip levels. The tourer rides on 19 inch alloys (20 inch forged at an option) which hide some nice Brembo stoppers behind their spokes. On the inside you have Recaro seats at the front and VXR specific steering, shifter and instrument panel graphics.

The Insignia VXR’s competitors are spelled clear. “The Insignia VXR Sports Tourer will be a compelling alternative for buyers in the premium sector who may currently be considering an Audi S4 Avant or BMW 335i M Sport Touring. We’ve already seen a swing to the Insignia from premium buyers who’d never before ticked the Vauxhall box on their wish list, and we expect to see the same buying pattern emerge with all versions of the Insignia VXR,” says Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director.

Of course countries that get Opels instead of Vauxhalls will receive the Insignia OPC, which is the same animal with a different badge.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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2010 Opel Astra: first details unveiled!

Paul Tan — Wed, 13 May 2009 05:28:02 +0000

The new 5-door Opel Astra hatchback is built on the same new global Delta platform as the Chevrolet Cruze, and hopefully if this crucial model is as good as the Opel Insignia was, things will look pretty bright for GM Europe. As usual with Opels it will be sold in the UK as a Vauxhall.

As with most hatches sold in Europe there is a never-ending list of engine options available to suit the requirements of a wide scope of society. You have a 1.4 litre, a 1.4 litre turbo, a 1.6 litre turbo (180 horses in the Insignia), and a trio of turbodiesels with 1.3 litre, 1.7 litre and 2.0 litre capacities. The 1.4 turbo engine is new, and is said to eventually make its way into the American market. The higher powered versions of the Cruze will also eventually get this engine in certain markets.

Something different is the new “Opel Eye” system which is essentially a driver assistance camera mounted between the rear view mirror and the windshield that recognises raffic signs that indicate speed limits or overtaking bans and displays them in the instrument panel. It also provides a lane departure warning.

A public debut of the new Astra will be held at the 2009 Frankfurt Motorshow in September, and will hit the showrooms by end this year.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Fiat-Chrysler now interested in GM Europe

Paul Tan — Tue, 05 May 2009 16:55:42 +0000

GM Europe’s Insignia has been getting good reviews

Well, the conditions for Fiat to take up a stake with the now bankrupt Chrysler has been fulfilled, and Fiat has been quick to look to something else in order to hasten the move towards consolidation of the auto companies during this recession.

Many have predicted that there will only be a few automakers left after this slump, with the rest either eliminated or merged. Datuk Syed Zainal’s suggestion for Proton to merge with Perodua a couple of weeks back would put Proton under the Toyota umbrella via Perodua’s Daihatsu shareholding, which is in turn owned by Toyota.

Lancia, Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Vauxhall and Opel could share B and C platforms

Anyway back to Fiat and the New Chrysler – a third piece of the puzzle that Fiat is said to be interested in acquiring is GM Europe, which covers Opel, Vauxhall, and other GM European operations. The resulting company would be a giant with annual sales of 6 to 7 million cars, which is claimed to be similiar to how much the Volkswagen Group puts out. Saab is pretty much a separate thing, and at least 10 parties are interested in acquiring them at the moment, according to Saab spokersman Eric Geers.

The new company is temporarily given the codename Fiat/Opel and is described by Fiat head Sergio Marchionne to be a “marriage made in heaven” as Fiat and Opel could consolidate their B and C segment cars to use the same platforms, while Fiat continued with its small A-segment platform and Opel’s D-segment platform. Apparently Fiat offered 1 billion Euros for Opel, but GM considers the amount too small for the moment. No updates if any other follow-up offers were made.

Volkswagen’s platform-sharing success is an inspiration to all

But of course whenever there’s any news to do with GM you have to listen to what their unions have to say. Opel senior labor leader Klaus Franz says if the Fiat and GM Europe merger does happen, between 9k to 10k jobs may be lost via factory closures and other restructuring. He then accused Marchionne of trying to build a global carmaker financed with German and American taxpayer money.

Volkswagen’s CEO Martin Winterkorn also warned that achieving and maintaining real synergies between multiple brands while increasing volumes and lowering costs is a very difficult thing to do. He added that Volkswagen’s platform-sharing strategy started all the way back in 1992 and it was alot of hard work and planning for it to be the success that it is today.

And Fiat and GM have already been in some sort of alliance from the year 2000 to 2005, which ended in GM paying over US$2 billion to get out of the arrangement because it was not going very well. At that time Fiat was burning cash at a rate of nearly US$2 billion a year, accumulating $14 billion in net losses during the 5 year period. It was the time of the Fiat Stilo which went nowhere, and a Fiat Punto that shared components with an Opel Corsa.

Whatever happens, it’s really one thing to build a huge empire that could be the second largest carmaker in the world and perhaps the largest in the future, but another to structure and manage it properly once formed. Just look at GM and its mess of brands. You could end up flourishing like the Volkswagen Group or just another GM or DaimlerChrysler.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Geneva 2009: RHD Volt-based Vauxhall Ampera to be produced by 2012

Harvinder Sidhu — Fri, 06 Mar 2009 03:29:20 +0000

General Motors has revealed Vauxhall’s interpretation of the Chevy Volt which will be offered in a right hand drive form, and that potential buyers can expect a production version by 2012. Based on the Chevy Volt and the Opel Ampera, this almost similar looking Vauxhall Ampera also features the Voltec electric propulsion system, meaning for journeys of up to 60 kilometers, it runs on electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery pack and this is done by emitting zero emissions.

Once energy in the battery pack is depleted, electricity generated from an engine-generator extends the Ampera’s range to more than 500 km. Recharging can be performed via a 230 volt house hold power outlet. GM also revealed that its Australian subsidiary Holden, will offer its own version of the Volt/Ampera for the Australian market. Personally, the Ampera looks a little better than the more down to earth Volt. Continue reading to view an image gallery.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel teases the Chevy Volt-based Ampera ahead of its Geneva debut

Harvinder Sidhu — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 01:42:14 +0000

General Motors-owned Opel will debut the Opel Ampera which is basically a re-badged version of the Chevy Volt at the Geneva Motor Show that will take place on March 3rd. Although the Ampera shares the same platform and drive system with the Volt across the Atlantic, this European version features a different design treatment, especially on the front fascia. Looking at the teaser image released by General Motors, the Ampera looks more modern or futuristic compared to the Volt.

Nothing official has been released regarding its drive system other than the fact that over a full charge, the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery pack can deliver 60 kilometers in range, and when energy is depleted, the range extending internal combustion engine will increase the Ampera’s driving range to more than 500 kilometers.

The electric motor should be good for 150HP and 370Nm of torque and its batteries can be recharged via a 230 volt electric outlet. The 5-door 4-seater hatch’s combustion engine should also be able to be fueled with biofuel or E85. The Opel Ampera is expected to hit European roads in 2011.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Vauxhall Insignia wins 2009 Car of the Year award!

Paul Tan — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 12:39:59 +0000

The new Vauxhall Insignia (UK name, also called the Opel Insignia in Europe and Buick Regal in China) has been voted as the 2009 Car of the Year (Europe)!

The Insignia won by the tiniest 1 point margin – 321 points, beating the first runner up, the Ford Fiesta to the pole. Trailing behind in third place is the new Volkswagen Golf Mark 6 with 223 points. The last time a car won by 1 point was in the 2001 awards where the Alfa 147 beat the Mondeo by one point.

Other finalists included the Alfa Romeo MiTo with 148 points, the Citroen C5 with 198 points, the Skoda Superb with 144 points, and the Renault Megane with 121 points. To quality for the awards, a car must be launched within the past 12 months and must be available in at least five European countries.

There has been much fuss about the new Insignia from the European motoring press and this news should be a slight bit of music to GM’s ears during the difficult times they’re facing now. There is speculation that the Insignia will bring back the Lotus Carlton in spirit form. The old Carlton was also a Vauxhall/Opel, and the top of the line Insignia’s 260 PS 2.8 litre turbocharged V6 would be quite tuner-friendly, making the job easier.

The COTY awards jury is made up of 50 senior motoring journos from 23 countries, and the UK jury includes Steve Cropley of Autocar, Andrew English of the Daily Telegraph, Ray Hutton of the Sunday Times, Paul Horrell of Top Gear UK, John Simister of The Indepedent and Phil McNamara of Car Magazine.

Look after the jump for more photos and a video of the Insignia

PHOTO GALLERY: Vauxhall Insignia
Click thumbnails to view high resolution photo

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VIDEO: Vauxhall Insignia Promotional TVC

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Zafira powered by 1.6 liter CNG turbo engine

Paul Tan — Mon, 17 Nov 2008 05:12:06 +0000

The Opel Zafira people mover is now available with a 1.6 litre turbocharged CNG engine that produces 150 horsepower and 210Nm of torque, the rough equivalent of a very torquey normally aspirated 2.0 litre engine. Relying on the on-board CNG tanks alone, it can travel up to 370km thanks to its 4 separate CNG tanks and a 14 litre backup regular gasoline tank (obviously downsized from the gasoline-only model) provides up to 150km of additional mileage for you to get to a CNG station and fill her up.

Now this is the kind of powertrain that we need in the new Proton MPV, forget the CNG, even a nice small displacement turbocharged would be nice to provide a relaxed and torquey drive without having to rev the engine much.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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New Buick Regal for China based on Insignia

Paul Tan — Tue, 04 Nov 2008 17:07:17 +0000

The new Opel Insignia (badged as a Vauxhall in the UK) is now in China, badged as a Buick. The Insignia is wearing the Buick Regal badge, the nameplate of a car that used to be a D-segment contender in China but has since been replaced by the Buick LaCrosse, which is also sold in China.

The last time there was a Regal in China was back in mid-2004 before it was replaced by the LaCrosse. The Buick LaCrosse is due for replacement soon though, with its lifecycle expected to end in 2009. GM is also planning a new LaCrosse based on the same Epsilon II platform that the Insignia/Regal uses, so does this mean China will have two Buicks of similiar size?

It will initially be offered with two inline-4 petrol engines. One is a 2.4 litre normally aspirated unit putting out 165 horsepower, probably the LE5 from the GM Family II engine range. The other would be the 2.0 all-aluminium direct injection turbo found in the European Insignia, putting out 220 PS and 350Nm of torque between 2,000 to 5,200rpm. It also features twin balancer shafts to smoothen out vibration.

Look after the jump for a full gallery of the Buick Regal.

PHOTO GALLERY: Buick Regal
Click thumbnails to view high resolution photo

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This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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VIDEO: Opel Meriva Concept

Paul Tan — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 17:26:33 +0000

General Motors has unveiled the Opel Meriva Concept at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The Meriva Concept previews the production version of the next generation Opel Meriva, and GM has announced that the rearward opening rear doors will make it to the production version.

View the unveiling video as well as some presentations by GM employees after the jump, and notice they add the word Flex in front of just about anything!

Related Posts:
Opel Meriva Concept at Geneva 2008

VIDEO: Opel Meriva Concept

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Meriva Concept at Geneva 2008

Paul Tan — Tue, 26 Feb 2008 20:47:45 +0000

General Motors will be showcasing the next generation Opel Meriva as a concept car next month at the 2008 Geneva Motor Show. The first generation 5-seater Opel Meriva which made its debut in 2002 has a flexible interior called FlexSpace.

The second row bench can be split apart to create individual seats, joined together to seat 3, folded into the floor, and it can also be adjusted fore and aft to vary the split between second row legroom and boot space. The seats can be pushed to the far rear of the car for maximum boot space.

The new Opel Meriva will continue the flexibility theme with new FlexDoors, They aren’t exactly all that flexible, it’s just that the rear doors are rear-hinged but they open independently of the front doors so they aren’t exactly typical suicide doors like the ones on the RX8. The Meriva will also most likely be badged as a Vauxhall and a Chevrolet, depending on markets. It will built on the new GM-Fiat Gamma SCCS (Small Common Components and Systems) platform.

More photos of the Opel Meriva Concept after the jump.

This story originally appeared on Paul Tan's Automotive News on Tue, 14 Feb 12 08:00:39 +0000.

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Opel Flextreme Concept to debut at Frankfurt 2007

Paul Tan — Mon, 10 Sep 2007 18:26:54 +0000

Opel’s Flextreme Concept is GM’s third E-Flex vehicle, with the first two being two variants of the Chevrolet Volt concept car shown earlier in January this year. The Opel Flextreme is a more European-focused car than the Volt which seems to be American-centric so its only natural that the Flextreme be based on diesel technology instead of the first E-Flex car’s flex-fuel technology. The E-Flex lithium ion battery pack is charged by a 1.3 litre inline-4 Ecotec turbodiesel engine.

The concept car features suicide doors, and the boot of the car carries a pair of Segway scooters, which can be charged from the Flextreme’s on-board electrical system. On a full charge, the car can go 64 kilometers before it needs to be charged by either the on-board turbodiesel or a plug-in system which allows the batteries to be charged via a conventional power outlet. If you factor in the turbodiesel engine using all of it’s fuel to continuously keep the batteries charged, maximum mileage on a full charge + a full tank of diesel is 715km – this is shorter than the Chevy Volt’s 1000km combined range.

More photos after the jump.

Related Posts:
Chevrolet Volt Concept

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