March 6, 2007Print this page
- New OPC model: World premiere of most powerful Corsa ever
- New Opel/Vauxhall GT: Classic roadster with powerful engine
- New edition Astra: More powerful, economical and with enhanced design
- New Antara: Technically sophisticated crossover for everyday and leisure use
- New Corsa: Quick starter with individual profile and unique options
- New model year with fresh look and enhanced equipment
Geneva. Opel/Vauxhall presents one world premiere and a host of new products at the 77th International Motor Show (March 8 – 18, 2007) in Geneva. The most powerful and fastest Corsa ever makes its first major appearance on the completely new stand in Hall 2 of Geneva's Palexpo. Following the sensational market launch of the Opel/Vauxhall bestseller's fourth generation, the OPC version is now the quintessential expression of the Corsa's dynamic character with 192 hp, over 266 Nm of overboost torque and a top speed of 225 km/h. With top-level agility and vehicle control, the compact sporty car promises pure driving fun. Shortly before its launch, the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is also vying to be the top public attraction in Geneva. The legitimate heir to the 70s cult sports car finds its modern definition in the athletic two-seater, with its clear-cut character and exciting design. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long, front-hinged hood, short overhangs and a tailor-made fabric roof, the GT embodies the characteristic proportions of a classic roadster. Its powerful two-liter turbo engine with gasoline direct injection produces 264 hp.
The new edition Astra is the third top star on the Opel/Vauxhall stand. Available since February, it boasts a refined design and an expanded range of technology features. The new Astra's engine range follows a clear trend: more compact and powerful, yet with lower fuel consumption. The Antara meanwhile – the newest member of the current Opel/Vauxhall model family – showcases the brand's typical combination of excitement and functionality. The technically sophisticated, dynamically styled four-wheel drive five-seater proves itself in everyday and leisure use. The fourth-generation Corsa, one of the most important new cars in the recent past, is also on display at the stand in Geneva. The other models in the range form a fitting setting for the main attractions: from the Agila to the Zafira, all boast enhanced details in the new model year.
In Hall 2 of the Geneva Motor Show, Opel/Vauxhall interprets 'Dynamics' with a completely new, bold stand design that is full of character. Glittering metallic ribbons that appear to float freely represent effortlessness and weightlessness, reflecting the brand's rejuvenation. The concept of a technologically advanced yet free-flowing design was developed by Swiss architecture office Bellprat Associates. The 3000 square-meter exhibition floor features loops with twisted surfaces that surround the main attractions. The new Opel/Vauxhall GT stands on its own podium, while the raised position of the new edition Astra also attracts the public's attention. The impressive stage hosts all 37 individually illuminated display vehicles.
Just like the cars themselves, the Opel/Vauxhall stand is also styled with an integrated design language. Blowing in an imaginary wind, the glittering metallic surfaces of the free-formed ribbons, as well as the floor's dark oak planks create a striking contrast to the bold stand. Opel/Vauxhall World features transparent walls made from "Mediamesh" – a shimmering stainless steel net of interwoven LED rods. These act as futuristic screens in the background and show flames flickering to a fiery "Capoiera" rhythm as soon as a Brazilian dance troupe turns the stand into a stage.
Opel/Vauxhall is shifting into top gear with the new Corsa OPC. The most powerful Corsa, which interprets Opel/Vauxhall's theme of 'Dynamics' better than any other, makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show and goes on sale shortly afterwards.
The 1.6-liter turbo engine with 141 kW/192 hp accelerates the compact three-door car from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and enables a top speed of 225 km/h. The maximum torque of 230 Nm is delivered to the front wheels by the standard six-speed transmission. In addition, the standard 'overboost' system can temporarily increase torque by around 15 percent to 266 Nm when required, providing a corresponding dynamics increase. This enables the Corsa OPC to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in just 6.7 seconds in fifth gear. It requires 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, a moderate figure in this performance class.
The top-of-the-line Corsa's look also reflects pure sportiness. The roof spoiler, as well as the powerful front and rear aprons with distinctive gills give the OPC what it needs to ensure a dynamic drive. Elements such as the darkly contrasting diffuser with integrated, centrally located triangular tailpipe and specially designed exterior mirrors are typical sporty car characteristics. Sportiness also dominates the Corsa OPC's cockpit. In addition to the chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and center console in piano lacquer finish, the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel with a ring at its crown is especially eye-catching. The sports seats with integrated head restraints are a joint new development by Opel/Vauxhall and Recaro. These race-car-like seats provide optimal side support and protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags.
The Corsa OPC's chassis is designed for maximum precision via a new spring/dampener tuning and a stronger rear axle profile, while its body is 15 mm lower than the other Corsa versions. The standard ESP system, which can be deactivated, has also been tuned to the car's sporty character. The new Corsa OPC comes with 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tires ex works, while 18-inch rims and size 225 tires are available as an option. The 16-inch brake system with internally ventilated front disk brakes ensures strong deceleration.
The introduction of the Corsa expands Opel/Vauxhall's OPC program to six models, which are all on display in Geneva. The top-of-the-line Vectra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp is available as a sedan or station wagon. The Zafira OPC – the fastest production van in the world with a top speed of 231 km/h – and the Astra OPC both have a 177 kW/240 hp, two-liter turbo engine. The Meriva OPC is powered by an engine similar to that of the Corsa OPC: with 132 kW/180 hp and a top speed of over 220 km/h, the versatile five-seater is unique in the minivan segment.
It was already made clear at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006 – the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is exciting and stirs the emotions. One year on and just before its market launch, the open-top sporty car is now officially ready to go and looks just as good in series production as it did then in its concept design. The modern definition of an athletic two-seater finds its form in the new roadster. As archetypal characteristics of its genre, it has a powerful front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, a cockpit with sporty instruments and a tailor-made fabric roof. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long, front-hinged hood and short overhangs, the GT boasts characteristic roadster proportions.
The Opel/Vauxhall GT also brings new charm to this genre with its own unmistakable personality thanks to its exciting shape, which contrasts sharp edges with curved surfaces to create a dynamic look, and its configuration, which enables a refined driving experience even on long journeys. The GT's pricing is also attractive. For 30,675 euros (recommended retail price in Germany ex works incl. VAT), customers get no less than 194 kW/264 hp and 353 Nm at 2000 rpm from the high-tech turbo engine with gasoline direct injection. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes less than six seconds.
A great name doesn't have to be long. The new two-seater carries its legendary name because it continues the tradition of the first Opel/Vauxhall GT (1968 – 1973) and, like the original, competes in one of the most exciting vehicle classes. The new GT is a legitimate successor to the classic sports car despite its individual look. An additional fun factor is the new GT roadster's fabric roof, which folds down easily to provide open-air enjoyment denied to the owners of the first GT.
The development of the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is a prime example of transcontinental collaboration within GM. The first step on the path came with the Solstice concept car in 2002, followed a year later by the Vauxhall VX Lightning concept car from the European GM Advanced Design Studio in Coventry, England. They both significantly inspired the Opel/Vauxhall GT's look, which was shaped to the current Opel/Vauxhall design language at the GM Design Center in Detroit and under the direction of Bryan Nesbitt at the GM Europe Design Studios in Rüsselsheim. The new Opel/Vauxhall GT is produced at the roadster plant in Wilmington/Delaware, USA.
It was already made clear at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006 – the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is exciting and stirs the emotions. One year on and just before its market launch, the open-top sporty car is now officially ready to go and looks just as good in series production as it did then in its concept design. The modern definition of an athletic two-seater finds its form in the new roadster. As archetypal characteristics of its genre, it has a powerful front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, a cockpit with sporty instruments and a tailor-made fabric roof. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long, front-hinged hood and short overhangs, the GT boasts characteristic roadster proportions.
The Opel/Vauxhall GT also brings new charm to this genre with its own unmistakable personality thanks to its exciting shape, which contrasts sharp edges with curved surfaces to create a dynamic look, and its configuration, which enables a refined driving experience even on long journeys. The GT's pricing is also attractive. For 30,675 euros (recommended retail price in Germany ex works incl. VAT), customers get no less than 194 kW/264 hp and 353 Nm at 2000 rpm from the high-tech turbo engine with gasoline direct injection. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes less than six seconds.
A great name doesn't have to be long. The new two-seater carries its legendary name because it continues the tradition of the first Opel/Vauxhall GT (1968 – 1973) and, like the original, competes in one of the most exciting vehicle classes. The new GT is a legitimate successor to the classic sports car despite its individual look. An additional fun factor is the new GT roadster's fabric roof, which folds down easily to provide open-air enjoyment denied to the owners of the first GT.
The development of the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is a prime example of transcontinental collaboration within GM. The first step on the path came with the Solstice concept car in 2002, followed a year later by the Vauxhall VX Lightning concept car from the European GM Advanced Design Studio in Coventry, England. They both significantly inspired the Opel/Vauxhall GT's look, which was shaped to the current Opel/Vauxhall design language at the GM Design Center in Detroit and under the direction of Bryan Nesbitt at the GM Europe Design Studios in Rüsselsheim. The new Opel/Vauxhall GT is produced at the roadster plant in Wilmington/Delaware, USA.
A few weeks after its market launch, the Antara is presented at Geneva in top form. With the compact crossover, Opel/Vauxhall returns to this increasingly competitive segment that has long been dominated by non-European brands. The all-terrain five-seater combines dynamic, elegant design with intelligent four-wheel, generous interior space, innovative transport features such as "Flex-Fix", high levels of functionality and a raised seat position.
Its design is a fusion of passenger car and off-road elements. While the lower section around the bumpers, sills and wheels clearly displays the new crossover's robustness, the body's striking lines and taut surfaces unite stylish elegance with a sporty, muscular look. In the interior, generous space for all passengers – with best-in-class 933 millimeters of rear legroom, for example – is complemented by an excellent load volume of up to 1420 liters. The Antara's luggage compartment can be enhanced by nets, dividing walls, rods and hooks that snap into two rails on each of the side walls when needed, allowing the load area to be separated into different sections. Even with its large load capacity, the crossover takes up no more space than a mid-size passenger car (length x width x height: 4.57 x 1.85 x 1.70 meters).
The Antara's intelligent active four-wheel drive system with electro-hydraulic differential ensures safe, agile handling and combines the benefits of pure front-wheel drive effortless maneuvering, tracking stability when accelerating and increased driving dynamics – with those of four-wheel drive. The Antara also boasts a modern four-channel ABS and ESP system, as well as Descent Control System (DCS). DCS allows the vehicle to safely maintain a constant speed even down steep inclines without the driver needing to brake. It is noteworthy as a standard feature in the Antara segment. The fuel efficiency of the modern crossover makes it even more attractive.
The 2.0-liter common-rail turbo-diesel unit with 110 kW/150 hp, for example, requires only 7.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Two gasoline engines are also available: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder unit with 103 kW/140 hp and the top-of-the-line 3.2-liter V6 with 167 kW/227 hp, which is especially smooth-running and refined.
The fourth-generation Corsa showcases its best features in Geneva: exciting design with sporty, athletic contours, a newly developed chassis for safe and agile cornering, new high-tech features, high-quality interior, plenty of space and numerous clever ideas such as the integrated rear carrier system "Flex-Fix". Its qualities have earned the new Corsa numerous awards across Europe: in the United Kingdom, it was named "Car of the Year 2007" by automotive magazine "What car?"; members of Germany's largest automobile club ADAC voted the Corsa the best small car; in Eastern and Central Europe, it received the most important automotive trophy, "Autobest 2007"; and was named "Topauto 2007" by German-speaking automotive journalists.
The distinctively different three-door and five-door Corsa models are tailor-made for different types of customers. With its sharp lines and coupé-like roof line, the three-door model is aimed at young adults and the young at heart, while the equally sporty looking five-door Corsa version with longer roof line and larger side windows is more likely to appeal to families. Short wheel overhangs and pronounced fenders over the rear wheels highlight the Corsa's powerful, sporty character, which flows into a chic, elegant interior. Striking new features such as backlit turn buttons create a warm and inviting atmosphere, as do exclusive elements like the heated steering wheel and piano-lacquer finished interior surfaces used in selected equipment variants.
Available with three gasoline and three common-rail turbo-diesel engines (output from 60 to 125 hp), the Corsa also maintains these premium standards when it comes to driving dynamics and safety. Steering is one example: the Corsa Sport's variable-progressive feedback curve alters the steering ratio to suit each driving situation, and does not require any driver intervention. The spectrum ranges from sports car to maneuvering mode. The Corsa's steering is complemented perfectly by newest-generation ABS and ESP systems that boast additional functions such as Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Straight-Line Stability control (SLS).
The combination of dynamic curve light and static cornering light in one lamp unit is also new in this vehicle segment.
In Geneva, Opel/Vauxhall also presents a wide selection of its current model range, which is more diverse and attractive than ever: sporty elegance and practical versatility take center stage – just like the eye-catching Astra TwinTop. Available since mid-2006, the slimline cabrio-coupé with multi-section, electro-hydraulic retractable steel roof and up to 440 liters of luggage compartment volume brings a breath of fresh air to the open-air car scene in spring and summer 2007. This is ensured by the two new 1.6-liter gasoline engines, which are available for the open-top four-seater as a member of the Astra family. The 180 hp turbo unit in combination with the IDS sport chassis offers top performance, and the 115 hp variant with cam-phase technology provides maximum efficiency. Fans of good looks with pronounced cabrio practicality are also well catered for in the Tigra TwinTop sister model, especially in the new special "Design Edition" model. 17-inch alloy wheels in five-spoke bi-color design, two layer metallic paint, crimson red leather equipment, leather steering wheel, silver safety belts, white instrument elements, on-board computer and heated seats are all fitted as standard.
For the Signum and Vectra model lines, the 2.8-liter V6 turbo ECOTEC engine now has an extra 20 hp, increasing the twin-scroll turbocharged unit to 184 kW/250 hp. Combining this engine with the "Sport" equipment variant now also includes 18-inch alloy wheels ex works, while the Signum can be ordered with OPC line packages. The newly introduced Combo Sport van also boasts a dynamic look. The newcomer's most eye-catching exterior features are honeycomb air inlets in the front panels, 3D ellipsoid headlamps, tinted rear windows and distinctive side sills in the style of the all-terrain Combo Arizona. New wheels in various sizes and design, fresh exterior colors and interior upholstery designs are all part of the range-wide model enhancement. This also includes the new bi-directional radio remote control, which makes the optional auxiliary heating in the Corsa, Meriva, Astra and Zafira an even more practical comfort feature.
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- New Opel/Vauxhall GT: Classic roadster with powerful engine
- New edition Astra: More powerful, economical and with enhanced design
- New Antara: Technically sophisticated crossover for everyday and leisure use
- New Corsa: Quick starter with individual profile and unique options
- New model year with fresh look and enhanced equipment
Geneva. Opel/Vauxhall presents one world premiere and a host of new products at the 77th International Motor Show (March 8 – 18, 2007) in Geneva. The most powerful and fastest Corsa ever makes its first major appearance on the completely new stand in Hall 2 of Geneva's Palexpo. Following the sensational market launch of the Opel/Vauxhall bestseller's fourth generation, the OPC version is now the quintessential expression of the Corsa's dynamic character with 192 hp, over 266 Nm of overboost torque and a top speed of 225 km/h. With top-level agility and vehicle control, the compact sporty car promises pure driving fun. Shortly before its launch, the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is also vying to be the top public attraction in Geneva. The legitimate heir to the 70s cult sports car finds its modern definition in the athletic two-seater, with its clear-cut character and exciting design. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long, front-hinged hood, short overhangs and a tailor-made fabric roof, the GT embodies the characteristic proportions of a classic roadster. Its powerful two-liter turbo engine with gasoline direct injection produces 264 hp.
The new edition Astra is the third top star on the Opel/Vauxhall stand. Available since February, it boasts a refined design and an expanded range of technology features. The new Astra's engine range follows a clear trend: more compact and powerful, yet with lower fuel consumption. The Antara meanwhile – the newest member of the current Opel/Vauxhall model family – showcases the brand's typical combination of excitement and functionality. The technically sophisticated, dynamically styled four-wheel drive five-seater proves itself in everyday and leisure use. The fourth-generation Corsa, one of the most important new cars in the recent past, is also on display at the stand in Geneva. The other models in the range form a fitting setting for the main attractions: from the Agila to the Zafira, all boast enhanced details in the new model year.
Completely new stand reflects brand's rejuvenation
In Hall 2 of the Geneva Motor Show, Opel/Vauxhall interprets 'Dynamics' with a completely new, bold stand design that is full of character. Glittering metallic ribbons that appear to float freely represent effortlessness and weightlessness, reflecting the brand's rejuvenation. The concept of a technologically advanced yet free-flowing design was developed by Swiss architecture office Bellprat Associates. The 3000 square-meter exhibition floor features loops with twisted surfaces that surround the main attractions. The new Opel/Vauxhall GT stands on its own podium, while the raised position of the new edition Astra also attracts the public's attention. The impressive stage hosts all 37 individually illuminated display vehicles.
Just like the cars themselves, the Opel/Vauxhall stand is also styled with an integrated design language. Blowing in an imaginary wind, the glittering metallic surfaces of the free-formed ribbons, as well as the floor's dark oak planks create a striking contrast to the bold stand. Opel/Vauxhall World features transparent walls made from "Mediamesh" – a shimmering stainless steel net of interwoven LED rods. These act as futuristic screens in the background and show flames flickering to a fiery "Capoiera" rhythm as soon as a Brazilian dance troupe turns the stand into a stage.
World premiere: Corsa OPC with 192 hp shortly before market launch
Opel/Vauxhall is shifting into top gear with the new Corsa OPC. The most powerful Corsa, which interprets Opel/Vauxhall's theme of 'Dynamics' better than any other, makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show and goes on sale shortly afterwards.The 1.6-liter turbo engine with 141 kW/192 hp accelerates the compact three-door car from zero to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds and enables a top speed of 225 km/h. The maximum torque of 230 Nm is delivered to the front wheels by the standard six-speed transmission. In addition, the standard 'overboost' system can temporarily increase torque by around 15 percent to 266 Nm when required, providing a corresponding dynamics increase. This enables the Corsa OPC to accelerate from 80 to 120 km/h in just 6.7 seconds in fifth gear. It requires 7.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers, a moderate figure in this performance class.
The top-of-the-line Corsa's look also reflects pure sportiness. The roof spoiler, as well as the powerful front and rear aprons with distinctive gills give the OPC what it needs to ensure a dynamic drive. Elements such as the darkly contrasting diffuser with integrated, centrally located triangular tailpipe and specially designed exterior mirrors are typical sporty car characteristics. Sportiness also dominates the Corsa OPC's cockpit. In addition to the chrome-ringed instruments with red pointers and center console in piano lacquer finish, the flat-bottomed leather sports steering wheel with a ring at its crown is especially eye-catching. The sports seats with integrated head restraints are a joint new development by Opel/Vauxhall and Recaro. These race-car-like seats provide optimal side support and protect both the driver and front passenger with integrated side airbags.The Corsa OPC's chassis is designed for maximum precision via a new spring/dampener tuning and a stronger rear axle profile, while its body is 15 mm lower than the other Corsa versions. The standard ESP system, which can be deactivated, has also been tuned to the car's sporty character. The new Corsa OPC comes with 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 tires ex works, while 18-inch rims and size 225 tires are available as an option. The 16-inch brake system with internally ventilated front disk brakes ensures strong deceleration.The introduction of the Corsa expands Opel/Vauxhall's OPC program to six models, which are all on display in Geneva. The top-of-the-line Vectra OPC with 206 kW/280 hp is available as a sedan or station wagon. The Zafira OPC – the fastest production van in the world with a top speed of 231 km/h – and the Astra OPC both have a 177 kW/240 hp, two-liter turbo engine. The Meriva OPC is powered by an engine similar to that of the Corsa OPC: with 132 kW/180 hp and a top speed of over 220 km/h, the versatile five-seater is unique in the minivan segment.
Opel/Vauxhall GT: Exciting form and plenty of performance
It was already made clear at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006 – the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is exciting and stirs the emotions. One year on and just before its market launch, the open-top sporty car is now officially ready to go and looks just as good in series production as it did then in its concept design. The modern definition of an athletic two-seater finds its form in the new roadster. As archetypal characteristics of its genre, it has a powerful front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, a cockpit with sporty instruments and a tailor-made fabric roof. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long, front-hinged hood and short overhangs, the GT boasts characteristic roadster proportions.
The Opel/Vauxhall GT also brings new charm to this genre with its own unmistakable personality thanks to its exciting shape, which contrasts sharp edges with curved surfaces to create a dynamic look, and its configuration, which enables a refined driving experience even on long journeys. The GT's pricing is also attractive. For 30,675 euros (recommended retail price in Germany ex works incl. VAT), customers get no less than 194 kW/264 hp and 353 Nm at 2000 rpm from the high-tech turbo engine with gasoline direct injection. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes less than six seconds.
A great name doesn't have to be long. The new two-seater carries its legendary name because it continues the tradition of the first Opel/Vauxhall GT (1968 – 1973) and, like the original, competes in one of the most exciting vehicle classes. The new GT is a legitimate successor to the classic sports car despite its individual look. An additional fun factor is the new GT roadster's fabric roof, which folds down easily to provide open-air enjoyment denied to the owners of the first GT.
The development of the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is a prime example of transcontinental collaboration within GM. The first step on the path came with the Solstice concept car in 2002, followed a year later by the Vauxhall VX Lightning concept car from the European GM Advanced Design Studio in Coventry, England. They both significantly inspired the Opel/Vauxhall GT's look, which was shaped to the current Opel/Vauxhall design language at the GM Design Center in Detroit and under the direction of Bryan Nesbitt at the GM Europe Design Studios in Rüsselsheim. The new Opel/Vauxhall GT is produced at the roadster plant in Wilmington/Delaware, USA.
New edition Astra makes its career as a multi-millionaire
It was already made clear at the Geneva Motor Show in 2006 – the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is exciting and stirs the emotions. One year on and just before its market launch, the open-top sporty car is now officially ready to go and looks just as good in series production as it did then in its concept design. The modern definition of an athletic two-seater finds its form in the new roadster. As archetypal characteristics of its genre, it has a powerful front-mounted engine, rear-wheel drive, a cockpit with sporty instruments and a tailor-made fabric roof. With a wide stance, sleek silhouette, long, front-hinged hood and short overhangs, the GT boasts characteristic roadster proportions.
The Opel/Vauxhall GT also brings new charm to this genre with its own unmistakable personality thanks to its exciting shape, which contrasts sharp edges with curved surfaces to create a dynamic look, and its configuration, which enables a refined driving experience even on long journeys. The GT's pricing is also attractive. For 30,675 euros (recommended retail price in Germany ex works incl. VAT), customers get no less than 194 kW/264 hp and 353 Nm at 2000 rpm from the high-tech turbo engine with gasoline direct injection. Acceleration from zero to 100 km/h takes less than six seconds.
A great name doesn't have to be long. The new two-seater carries its legendary name because it continues the tradition of the first Opel/Vauxhall GT (1968 – 1973) and, like the original, competes in one of the most exciting vehicle classes. The new GT is a legitimate successor to the classic sports car despite its individual look. An additional fun factor is the new GT roadster's fabric roof, which folds down easily to provide open-air enjoyment denied to the owners of the first GT.
The development of the new Opel/Vauxhall GT is a prime example of transcontinental collaboration within GM. The first step on the path came with the Solstice concept car in 2002, followed a year later by the Vauxhall VX Lightning concept car from the European GM Advanced Design Studio in Coventry, England. They both significantly inspired the Opel/Vauxhall GT's look, which was shaped to the current Opel/Vauxhall design language at the GM Design Center in Detroit and under the direction of Bryan Nesbitt at the GM Europe Design Studios in Rüsselsheim. The new Opel/Vauxhall GT is produced at the roadster plant in Wilmington/Delaware, USA.
Antara: Modern crossover with character in every regard
A few weeks after its market launch, the Antara is presented at Geneva in top form. With the compact crossover, Opel/Vauxhall returns to this increasingly competitive segment that has long been dominated by non-European brands. The all-terrain five-seater combines dynamic, elegant design with intelligent four-wheel, generous interior space, innovative transport features such as "Flex-Fix", high levels of functionality and a raised seat position.
Its design is a fusion of passenger car and off-road elements. While the lower section around the bumpers, sills and wheels clearly displays the new crossover's robustness, the body's striking lines and taut surfaces unite stylish elegance with a sporty, muscular look. In the interior, generous space for all passengers – with best-in-class 933 millimeters of rear legroom, for example – is complemented by an excellent load volume of up to 1420 liters. The Antara's luggage compartment can be enhanced by nets, dividing walls, rods and hooks that snap into two rails on each of the side walls when needed, allowing the load area to be separated into different sections. Even with its large load capacity, the crossover takes up no more space than a mid-size passenger car (length x width x height: 4.57 x 1.85 x 1.70 meters).
The Antara's intelligent active four-wheel drive system with electro-hydraulic differential ensures safe, agile handling and combines the benefits of pure front-wheel drive effortless maneuvering, tracking stability when accelerating and increased driving dynamics – with those of four-wheel drive. The Antara also boasts a modern four-channel ABS and ESP system, as well as Descent Control System (DCS). DCS allows the vehicle to safely maintain a constant speed even down steep inclines without the driver needing to brake. It is noteworthy as a standard feature in the Antara segment. The fuel efficiency of the modern crossover makes it even more attractive.
The 2.0-liter common-rail turbo-diesel unit with 110 kW/150 hp, for example, requires only 7.5 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Two gasoline engines are also available: a 2.4-liter four-cylinder unit with 103 kW/140 hp and the top-of-the-line 3.2-liter V6 with 167 kW/227 hp, which is especially smooth-running and refined.
New Corsa: Sharply cut and aiming for the top with surprising details
The fourth-generation Corsa showcases its best features in Geneva: exciting design with sporty, athletic contours, a newly developed chassis for safe and agile cornering, new high-tech features, high-quality interior, plenty of space and numerous clever ideas such as the integrated rear carrier system "Flex-Fix". Its qualities have earned the new Corsa numerous awards across Europe: in the United Kingdom, it was named "Car of the Year 2007" by automotive magazine "What car?"; members of Germany's largest automobile club ADAC voted the Corsa the best small car; in Eastern and Central Europe, it received the most important automotive trophy, "Autobest 2007"; and was named "Topauto 2007" by German-speaking automotive journalists.
The distinctively different three-door and five-door Corsa models are tailor-made for different types of customers. With its sharp lines and coupé-like roof line, the three-door model is aimed at young adults and the young at heart, while the equally sporty looking five-door Corsa version with longer roof line and larger side windows is more likely to appeal to families. Short wheel overhangs and pronounced fenders over the rear wheels highlight the Corsa's powerful, sporty character, which flows into a chic, elegant interior. Striking new features such as backlit turn buttons create a warm and inviting atmosphere, as do exclusive elements like the heated steering wheel and piano-lacquer finished interior surfaces used in selected equipment variants.
Available with three gasoline and three common-rail turbo-diesel engines (output from 60 to 125 hp), the Corsa also maintains these premium standards when it comes to driving dynamics and safety. Steering is one example: the Corsa Sport's variable-progressive feedback curve alters the steering ratio to suit each driving situation, and does not require any driver intervention. The spectrum ranges from sports car to maneuvering mode. The Corsa's steering is complemented perfectly by newest-generation ABS and ESP systems that boast additional functions such as Cornering Brake Control (CBC) and Straight-Line Stability control (SLS).
The combination of dynamic curve light and static cornering light in one lamp unit is also new in this vehicle segment.
New Opel/Vauxhall model year highlights dynamics, elegance and versatility
In Geneva, Opel/Vauxhall also presents a wide selection of its current model range, which is more diverse and attractive than ever: sporty elegance and practical versatility take center stage – just like the eye-catching Astra TwinTop. Available since mid-2006, the slimline cabrio-coupé with multi-section, electro-hydraulic retractable steel roof and up to 440 liters of luggage compartment volume brings a breath of fresh air to the open-air car scene in spring and summer 2007. This is ensured by the two new 1.6-liter gasoline engines, which are available for the open-top four-seater as a member of the Astra family. The 180 hp turbo unit in combination with the IDS sport chassis offers top performance, and the 115 hp variant with cam-phase technology provides maximum efficiency. Fans of good looks with pronounced cabrio practicality are also well catered for in the Tigra TwinTop sister model, especially in the new special "Design Edition" model. 17-inch alloy wheels in five-spoke bi-color design, two layer metallic paint, crimson red leather equipment, leather steering wheel, silver safety belts, white instrument elements, on-board computer and heated seats are all fitted as standard.
For the Signum and Vectra model lines, the 2.8-liter V6 turbo ECOTEC engine now has an extra 20 hp, increasing the twin-scroll turbocharged unit to 184 kW/250 hp. Combining this engine with the "Sport" equipment variant now also includes 18-inch alloy wheels ex works, while the Signum can be ordered with OPC line packages. The newly introduced Combo Sport van also boasts a dynamic look. The newcomer's most eye-catching exterior features are honeycomb air inlets in the front panels, 3D ellipsoid headlamps, tinted rear windows and distinctive side sills in the style of the all-terrain Combo Arizona. New wheels in various sizes and design, fresh exterior colors and interior upholstery designs are all part of the range-wide model enhancement. This also includes the new bi-directional radio remote control, which makes the optional auxiliary heating in the Corsa, Meriva, Astra and Zafira an even more practical comfort feature.
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The news in my Belgian favorite newspaper was saying that there was some resistance (for instance from Roland Koch [...]