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Opel/Vauxhall Confirms Production of New Convertible

• Product offensive continued


• Cabrio to enter market in 2013


• Production scheduled for Gliwice, Poland

Rüsselsheim. Opel/Vauxhall continues its portfolio expansion as the addition of a new Convertible has been confirmed today. The new Cabrio is part of the company's €11 billion investment pledge announced approximately one year ago as part of its plan for the future. It comes on the heels of successful products such as the Insignia, 2009 Car of the Year, the Astra, winner of a 2009 Golden Steering Wheel, the Meriva with its innovative and highly-acclaimed FlexDoors system, the upcoming new generation Zafira, and the revolutionary Ampera electric vehicle.

The new Convertible will be based on Opel/Vauxhall's compact vehicle architecture which is also the basis for the current Astra, the Astra SportsTourer and the upcoming Astra GTC. It will hit the market in 2013 - the same year that Opel/Vauxhall will also launch its chic and stylish small car meeting the growing demand for vehicles in line with a young and urban lifestyle.

Subsequent to a joint agreement between management and employee representatives during the restructuring at the Opel plant in Gliwice, Poland, the decision has been made to build the Cabrio at the highly-efficient Gliwice plant alongside other Astra models.

"The new Convertible will be a great addition to our product lineup," said Opel/Vauxhall CEO Nick Reilly. "It follows the long-standing tradition of highly emotional and legendary Opel/Vauxhall Cabrios that provided important halo effects on our brand. With its sleek and elegant design, our new Convertible will fully deliver on that same promise."

Further details, such as vehicle naming, pricing and equipment, will be announced closer to the launch timing.

The three-door Astra GTC will be available with a similar engine lineup to the five-door model, offering buyers a variety of turbocharged gasoline and diesel units. A hotted up OPC model with more than 250 ponies and a specially tuned chassis is expected in the near future.

the Opel Ampera is nothing more than a Chevrolet Volt with some extremely mild cosmetic changes, but doppelgangers have always had a very special place in the wonderful world of General Motors. If Bloomberg’s inside sources are right, GM is currently looking into the development of a Buick-badged version of the plug-in hybrid Opel Ampera. According to people familiar with the project, the Buick model could go on sale in 2013, if the plans goes ahead.

A key aspect to General Motor's survival is what is now being called its Voltec platform - cars which are built on the same platform underpinning the Chevrolet Volt, an electric car scheduled to be introduced before the end of 2010. Besides the Chevrolet Volt, GM has been showcasing the Cadillac Converj concept, a luxury coupe version of the Volt as well as the Opel Ampera, a European counterpart to the Volt. Together, these three cars will play a prime role in distinguishing the direction General Motors will be going for the next decade or longer.

Each of the three models will be "powered" by an electric lithium-ion battery, a rechargeable powerplant with an all-electric range of forty miles. Beyond that, a small gas engine will kick in and, in the case of the Chevrolet Volt, that engine will be the same 1.4L I4 motor as the one that will move the upcoming Chevrolet Cruze, a gasoline model. GM hasn't said which engines will be in the Ampera or the Converj, but the 1.4L may provide just enough power to move those two models as well.

New Powertrain line-up adds high efficiency and sovereign performance

Significant reduction in interior noise

Chassis improvements for better ride and handling

Updated design for a sporty-elegant look





The most notable changes in the Antara’s mid-cycle enhancements, which will be introduced at the end of this year, are in the powertrain. The fully re-worked engine line-up, all Euro-5 compliant, now offers improved driving performance as well as significantly reduced consumption and emissions. Even the two available transmissions – a six-gear manual and automatic – have undergone completely new developments to improve efficiency and dynamics.



The latest entry to the engine range is a newly-developed 2.2 CDTI Turbo diesel, which comes with two outputs. The 120 kW/163 hp offers 36 hp more than its predecessor model. The 135 kW/184 hp version offers 34 hp more power.



The 163 hp variant is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive as well as with manual or automatic six-gear transmissions. The 184 hp also offers a choice of manual or automatic transmissions and comes with all-wheel drive as standard.



The gasoline line-up, too, offers more power. The 2.4 liter, four-cylinder version now comes with 125 kW/170 hp, or, 30 hp more power. Like the diesel variants, this engine is available in front-wheel or all-wheel drive and comes as manual or automatic six-gear transmission.



The engine variants come with variable camshaft phasing for the inlet and exhaust, which optimizes the torque and performance characteristics as well as lowers fuel consumption and emissions. Naturally an active, re-worked chassis fits nicely to the new Antara, offering dynamic handling and excellent traveling comfort.



Strong presence through accentuated front design

On the street, the Antara turns heads with its chic, upscale look. Its new, front grill with bold logo makes it immediately recognizable as a member of the new Opel design family. The fog lights together with chrome bezels and a well-blended pedestrian protection lends the vehicle a harmonious look with a strong presence. Modified rear lights and optional 19-inch light-metal wheels round out the robust look.



Designers have added a new Daydream Beige exterior color, to update the Antara’s palette. The new light beige creates a warm, upscale contemporary impression. This is in addition to the seven hues already on offer in Europe, allowing customers to find a color to meet their taste.



Inside, too, Opel has updated the choice to include a Light Titanium in the Cosmos trim level, in addition to the existing dark Saddle Brown and Jet Black. The lighter interior beautifully matches the new fabric and optimized instrument graphic and effective interior lighting. Together they underscore the prestigious ambiance of the cabin. A new center console with extra storage solutions has been added, thanks to the new electric parking brake, which opens up space between the two front seats.



Opel has improved safety and comfort features in the Antara as well. This includes a standard electric parking brake and a Hill Assist System. With these changes, the market segment of the compact SUV has a new competitor in the ring.

The dynamics of a passenger car with the talents of an off-roader



Chassis fine-tuning means the Antara is agile enough to maneuver its way through tough terrain, yet comfortable – and quiet – enough for daily drives to the city or soccer pitch. The enhancements ensure a high level of ride, handling, and safety performance. They include:



Improved stopping performance due to changes in the ABS efficiency, chassis tuning and 19-inch performance touring tires.

Application of Hill Start Assist on all vehicles, a feature that holds the vehicle on grades of three-percent or steeper for 1.5 seconds after the brake pedal is released. This technology essentially eliminates “roll-back” on hills when the vehicle needs to be stopped momentarily and ensures easier, confident “drive away” on grades;

New Electric Parking Brake Dynamic Assist (EPBDA), a feature in which the electronic brake control module applies four-corner braking in conditions where it is necessary to safely slow down the vehicle.



In addition, engineers have focused on a series of chassis hardware refinements to ensure enhanced vehicle dynamics like cornering, reduced “roll” characteristics, and improved ride feel.



The Antara’s four-wheel drive system combines the benefits of front-wheel drive − such as low fuel consumption and virtually effortless maneuvering − with those of four-wheel drive. While the engine normally powers the front wheels, the propulsion power can also be quickly and seamlessly distributed between the front and rear axle at a ratio of up to 50:50 when needed. The key element for this active function is an electronically controlled, electro-magnetically operated, electro-hydraulic differential on the rear axle. The compact and light four-wheel drive system is fully integrated in the ABS and ESP systems and supports the driver effectively in all driving situations, such as during heavy acceleration.



The new Opel Antara comes with three newly developed powertrains, upgraded manual and automatic transmissions, a re-tuned chassis and a new interior designed for more comfort.



With three newly developed powertrains, upgraded manual and automatic transmissions, a re-tuned chassis and a new interior designed for comfort, the Antara combines off-road capability with urban chic. Now, thanks to its attractive pricing, the next generation Opel Antara offers excellent value for money. The Antara 2.4 l (123 kW/167 hp) gasoline version with front-wheel drive starts at 26,780 euros in Germany.



This cool crossover meets the most exacting demands in terms of design, driving dynamics, economy and functionality. The enhancements are rounded off by a stylish exterior design and an interior which has been upgraded in terms functionality, look and feel. Together with the front and all-wheel drive options, the Antara offers something for everyone.



The powertrain range includes a newly developed common-rail diesel engine with 2.2-liters displacement and 2.4-liter gasoline engine. The 2.2-liter diesel is available in two output levels (120 kW/163 hp, 135 kW/184 hp). The gasoline version, which has also been upgraded, delivers 123 kW/167 hp. The 163 hp diesel and the gasoline-powered model are available with front or all-wheel drive and with manual or automatic six-speed transmission.



All engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards. Compared with their predecessors, they combine increased agility and driving dynamics with considerably lower fuel consumption and emissions.



Both transmission types are also available for the 184 hp diesel version, while the all-wheel drive system is standard with this engine. To match the new engines, the newly tuned chassis offers an extremely well-balanced combination of dynamic handling and suspension comfort.



The exterior highlights of the updated Antara include a newly designed front grille with the trademark Opel chrome bar, new fog lamps, adapted underride protection, modified rear lights and large-format, 19-inch alloy wheels. The enhanced interior features new paneling and upholstery materials, optimized instrument graphics, a new center console, additional storage space as well as elegant interior lighting. An especially high-grade leather version, called Light Titanium is available as an option.



“The new Antara combines the looks of a sporty off-roader with urban chic. It is practical, functional and equipped with state-of-the-art technology,” says Alain Visser, Vice President Marketing, Sales & Aftersales. “You really notice that it has undergone a major character change. With completely new engines and a newly tuned chassis, the car has become much more dynamic and more comfortable. In short: it offers clear added value in terms of driving pleasure.”

• Efficient power: 70 kW/95 hp Corsa ecoFLEX now with Start/Stop at 94 g/km CO2


• Sporty: Updated outfit wraps Corsa in new Opel family look


• Individual: New trim levels and Color Line models for wider personalization choice

Rüsselsheim. The Opel Corsa’s makeover continues: following the overhaul of everything under its skin in 2010, Opel’s successful small car is getting a new wardrobe in 2011. A redesigned face lends it a sportier, expressive look, making it instantly recognizable as a member of the new Opel family. New exterior colors and interior looks as well as a great offer of individualized, sporty versions make it more attractive than ever. The Corsa now also comes with a new, multimedia infotainment system called “Touch & Connect” that features a five-inch color touch screen, full navigation coverage for 28 European countries, Bluetooth, iPod and USB connections at a very competitive price.



While all engines have been reworked in 2010 to offer more power with lower fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, a new 70 kW/ 95 hp ecoFLEX 1.3 CDTI version now equipped with Start/Stop technology further increases the Corsa’s overall efficiency: The three-door version only requires 3.5 liters diesel per 100 km and emits just 94 g/km CO2. Start/Stop technology especially enables a reduction in fuel consumption in urban traffic – at 4.2 liter/100 km versus 4.6 l/100 km previously for the Corsa 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX emitting 98 g/km CO.



A complete family on constant move

A major player in the European market since 1982, the Opel Corsa offers one of the widest product ranges in the small car segment. It comes in two distinct body styles: the coupé-like three-door, the family friendly five-door, and a commercial variant called Corsavan. Inside the cabin, it continuously seduces with one of the roomiest and most attractive interiors in its class. The Corsa also offers many innovative features not offered by its peers – like a heated steering wheel or the integrated bicycle carrier FlexFix – as well as many that are rarely available in the segment like halogen Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL), Hill Start Assist and a panorama sunroof.



The powertrain line-up of the Opel Corsa ranges from 48 kW/65 hp to 141 kW/192 hp. This engine family was updated in 2010 with many new engines meeting Euro 5 emission standards that reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by up to 13 percent while increasing engine power in most applications. To help drivers lower their fuel consumption even while driving a powerful car, a ‘shift up’ indicator light was added to the main instrument display.



The reworked 1.6-liter turbo 141 kW/192 hp OPC version continues to top the Corsa family. The face of the Corsa OPC was also redesigned to match the rest of the new line-up, especially with new headlamps and a new grille.



On the diesel side, different versions of the 1.3 and 1.7 CDTI units offer outputs ranging from 55 kW/75 hp to 96 kW/130 hp – and merely sip diesel; all have fuel consumption between 3.5 and 4.6 liters per 100 kilometers.



Flair and individuality for every taste

The four trim levels Essentia, Enjoy, Cosmo and Sport that enable customers to personalize their Corsa exactly as they wish have been reworked for 2011. New contemporary colors and decors are offered both inside and out. In the Charcoal environment, the Enjoy interior can also be dressed with more expressive Tabasco Orange or Steel Blue decors. The new exterior color palette integrates a delicate off-white Guacamole, eye-catching Grasshopper green and daring, warm Henna.



In addition, the successful, sporty Color Line that already accounts for some 20 per cent of Corsa sales in Germany extends its offer. In addition to the familiar Color Edition and Color Race models, it now features a new pack called Linea with bold, 17 inch wheels in white or glossy black with matching large stripes along the body. The Linea Pack is available on Enjoy, Sport and Cosmo.



Bestselling super-mini with enhanced engineering and top quality

The Corsa has received significant chassis improvements in 2010 for better ride comfort, enhanced steering feel and greater directional stability – all without compromising its acclaimed agility and driving fun.



Dampers, springs, anti-roll bars, the rear axle, the steering gear and the software of the Electric Power Steering (EPS) have all been revised to give Corsa greater running refinement, together with a steering and ride quality typical of a vehicle from a more expensive class. The ABS and ESPPlus systems fitted in the Corsa support the internally ventilated front disk brakes and provide additional functions: In an emergency, brake control is activated in addition to brake assist and electronic brake force distribution.



In addition to its athletic, dynamic styling and great driving fun, the Corsa also offers customers top class quality. Germany’s DEKRA Quality Report 2010 named the Corsa the overall quality winner, with the lowest defect rate of all the vehicles tested. DEKRA (Deutscher Kraftfahrzeug-Überwachungs-Verein) is an independent, full-service provider for safe and efficient mobility and Europe’s leading technical expert organization.



The Corsa is a highly popular choice throughout Europe among the small cars – or super-minis. It accounts for some 30 percent of all Opel/Vauxhall sales and is among the leaders in its segment. On average, more than 400,000 units were sold annually the last three years.



The Corsa was designed and developed in Rüsselsheim, Germany and is built in Zaragoza, Spain and Eisenach, Germany.

The Opel Zafira Tourer Concept makes its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show (March 3 - 13). The vehicle offers a glimpse into the future generation Opel Zafira monocab trendsetter. The concept car combines maximum flexibility with a premium feel, resulting in an ideal blend of functionality and wellness. The Zafira Tourer Concept is a “lounge on wheels” with a light, airy and high-class quality interior that offers generous space for rear passengers. It brings Insignia values like ambition, quality and innovative technologies to the monocab segment while showcasing Opel’s design philosophy sculptural artistry meets German precision.



“We have transferred the idea of a relaxing lounge to a vehicle and created an automobile wellness oasis, a place to relax and enjoy. Passengers can retreat in the lounge. It is a comfortable, roomy space where you really want to be – regardless if it’s for a business trip or to relax for a long journey,” says Mark Adams, Vice President of Design at Opel. “The Opel Zafira Tourer Concept makes a statement with its sleek sporty look and premium feel”.



Flexibility trendsetter Zafira as luxurious wellness oasis

True to lounge feeling, the Zafira Tourer Concept interior is bathed in light thanks to a panorama windshield that seamlessly flows into a generous glass roof which extends to the rear of the car. A special touch is a second pane of high-tech composite material that is edge-lit by LEDs. Tiny metallic particles are embedded in the plastic to reflect the light and give off a cozy, warm light that can be varied in different shades of yellow. This reinforces the homey lounge ambiance and lends the interior a glowing character while achieving a harmonious balance with the outside world.



In the Zafira Tourer Concept, Opel engineers further developed the seven-seat Flex7 seating concept pioneered by the Zafira, making it more sophisticated than ever.



The third row can still be completely folded down flush with the floor in the innovative Zafira Tourer Concept. Fully automatically at the push of a button, the five-seat configuration can then be transformed into a roomy four-seat rear cabin with first-class feeling and lounge character. Thanks to a clever new folding mechanism, the back of the middle seat in the second row folds to offer comfortable armrests for the passengers in the outer seats. These then slide back and towards each other, creating maximum space for passengers’ arms and legs and thus ensuring optimal comfort. With extended footrests, perfect seating for relaxation is created – the ideal place to unwind.



The tiltable three-piece headrests are also electrically powered and add to the spacious first-class character of the Zafira Tourer Concept’s cabin. For safety reasons the headrests remain in vertical position for the driver when the car is in motion. In the lounge setting, with the exception of the driver headrest, they swivel 90 degrees to the horizontal position while the outer elements slightly curve forward – pure wellness for the passengers.



Clarity plays a big part in comfort and well-being in the first row, where a large touch-screen display dominates the center console. A covered storage compartment above that can hold a tablet PC like an iPad. The heating can be controlled over two turn knobs below the display, and air conditioning via touch-buttons.



Thanks to the flexible and pivot-mounted tablet PCs on the front seat backs, passengers in the second row can comfortably surf the internet or control multi-media applications.



Seats tailored in high-quality caramel leather with color-matched quilted seams and stitching, contrasted with Cocoa dark brown door trim, soft deep-pile carpet and a host of premium materials pleasant to touch, underline the monocab’s exclusivity.



Exterior design: Like an elegant high-speed train

The roomy, warm interior in dark brown and caramel color tones is encased by an elegant, sculptured and sophisticated exterior design in Frost Liquid Metal, a special metallic silver-grey.



The new distinctive front with wing shaped headlamps and twin trapezoid grille intakes creates a dynamic, sporty look.



The LED technology wing-shaped daytime running lights, bi-Xenon AFL and fog lamps are all contained behind a single plexiglass cover. The fog lamps, encased in a polished aluminium frame, shimmer in blue like a frosted acrylic block and contrast the warm atmosphere of the interior. These elements visually shorten the front overhang. The characteristic Opel center crease on the hood reaches from the grille to the windshield.



Like the Astra Sports Tourer, the Zafira’s belt line sweeps upwards in a hockey stick-like gesture and visually helps to propel the vehicle forward. The silhouette is reminiscent of a high-speed train. The sleek, aerodynamic body noticeably reduces wind noise to ensure quiet cruising even at high speeds.



The aerodynamically optimized exterior mirrors house the turn indicators that are encased like jewels in an elegant, polished aluminium body. These high-class trim details are echoed in the waist molding of the side glass as well as on the roof rails.



The dark tail lamps in the signature blade form with LED technology wrap around the body side and tailgate. The horizontal aluminium bar carrying the Opel logo stretches far into the light elements, giving the Opel Zafira Tourer Concept a broad, sporty look in the rear. The parallelogram-shaped dual exhaust pipes are integrated in another aluminium bar in the lower fascia, adding to its dynamic appearance.



Innovative designs and technologies enhance looks and comfort

The 20-inch twin-spoke alloy wheels in dark metallic grey matte lacquer emphasize both the monocab’s natural athleticism and its upper-class character. The polished high-gloss spokes contrast with diamond-cut aluminium surfaces that make them stand out against the dark background of the rims.



There is also a smart, exclusive detail hidden behind five slim covers integrated in the spokes. Opel engineers designed them as decorative and functional wheel-nut protectors. They can be unlocked easily and quickly and the covers open out in star-form to allow access to the bolts. The 245/40 R20 tires add an extra dash of sporty comfort.



The Zafira Tourer Concept is powered by a new version of the downsized, fuel-efficient 1.4 Turbo featuring Start/Stop technology that provides a smooth ride for all occupants.



The Zafira Tourer Concept also features innovative technologies that enhance comfort and safety such as the FlexRide fully adaptive damping system.

• Media and public praise revolutionary technology


• Already 1,000 reservations across Europe


• Opel lists total costs for owner


• Customers and brand ambassador Katie Melua look forward to start of sales


• Choice of drive modes for optimal energy management

The Ampera has already been chosen as the winner of numerous awards by media and the public. The revolutionary technical concept convinced the readers of Auto Zeitung, who awarded it the “Auto Trophy 2010” in the electric vehicle category. The Ampera was named runner up for the “Green Steering Wheel 2010”, a special category of the “Golden Steering Wheel”, by readers and the jury of Bild and Bild am Sonntag. And the respected jury of Auto Test magazine awarded it the “e-car award 2010” in the category “Innovation/Technical Concept of the Year”. The Ampera’s user-friendliness had already won the “Green Technology Award” from the British magazine What Car? and the “Innovation Trophy” from L’Automobile Magazine in France in 2009.



“Unlike a conventional electric vehicle, the Opel Ampera can be the only car you need to own,” says Alain Visser, Vice President of Sales, Marketing and Aftersales at Opel. “The Ampera delivers it all: revolutionary propulsion, progressive styling, excellent safety, high quality and user-friendly functions, all combined with superb driving dynamics.”



Innovative technology for total cost from 42,900 euros

In contrast to other manufacturers, Opel offers the Ampera for a uniform price of 42,900 euros (RRP incl. VAT) throughout Europe. Because trim levels will differ from market to market, prices in each country may vary. Opel’s pricing scheme eliminates confusion by listing the total cost of the car and battery.



The production version of the Opel Ampera does not deviate from the targets set during the development phase. With its unique electric propulsion system providing lively acceleration, high levels of refinement and all the benefits of an electrically-powered vehicle, the five-door Ampera seats four passengers and offers ample trunk space.



Its striking design remains very close to that of the early concept cars. The Ampera carries the DNA of Opel’s new design language – a prominent grille, bold Opel badge and daring boomerang headlamps. Every element of the Ampera was designed and analyzed for efficiency, making the Ampera one of the most aerodynamic and energy-efficient vehicles on the market. Inside, the Ampera is packed with the content fitting for a ground-breaking vehicle, from Bose speakers to touch-screen monitors.



ePioneers and Katie Melua eagerly await start of sales

The Ampera is already electrifying a group of ePioneers across Europe. Around 400 pioneers have joined the www.opel-ampera.com community as potential customers. They receive exclusive information and services, they will be the first to take the Ampera for a test drive and enjoy a host of other benefits.



While the ePioneers are waiting for sales of the Ampera to start, they are sharing their opinions about the future of the automobile. More and more drivers are convinced that the future of man’s mobility is with electric vehicles. Thomas A. from Ebersbach, Germany is sure that “e-mobility is coming. The Ampera concept can manage it, because most excuses have to do with range.” The engineer Hans-Ulrich H. from Lindau, Germany is convinced that “electricity from renewable energy sources will define the world tomorrow.” A Greenpeace supporter is of the opinion that the Ampera is the logical complement to green electricity and the final link in closing the “ecological circuit”. And Ralph G. from Matlock, UK says, “Even though the development of alternative fuels still has a long way to go, it looks like the Ampera is the first practical step in the right direction.”



A lot of people and ePioneers agree with Opel brand ambassador Katie Melua, who is travelling in an Ampera on her European tour starting in March: “I like the way environmental protection and sustainability are realized in the Ampera, and the way this green car embodies emotion and a zest for life,” said the British singer in London.



Suitable for every kind of journey

The revolutionary Opel Ampera will be the first emission-free, electrically driven car in Europe suitable for everyday driving. Unlike a conventional battery-electric vehicle, the Ampera eliminates range anxiety. It gives drivers the confidence and peace of mind that a depleted battery will not strand them.



The battery is recharged in about four hours at 230V by plugging the vehicle's on-board charge system into a standard household outlet. Because the battery can be recharged conveniently, without the need for special charging equipment, most Amperas are likely to be driven in battery mode all the time. Independent research shows that around 80 percent of Europeans drive less than 60 kilometers per day, so the Ampera easily meets their requirements. For the first 40 - 80 kilometers (depending on terrain, driving style, and temperature), power is supplied by the electricity stored in the 16-kWh, lithium-ion battery. While driving on electricity delivered by the battery, the Ampera moves free of gas and tailpipe-emissions. If a longer trip is required, the gasoline-fueled engine can seamlessly extend the total driving range to more than 500 kilometers on a full tank. This full-performance, range-extending technology makes the Ampera the first electric car with the everyday convenience of a conventional automobile.



Four Drive Modes from City to Sports for efficiency and driving fun

The extremely quiet 111 kW/150 hp electric motor delivers 370 Newton meters torque from a standstill. It accelerates the Ampera from zero to 100 km/h in around nine seconds and enables a maximum speed of 161 km/h.



Via a “Drive Mode” button in the center stack, the driver can choose Normal, Sport, Mountain or City modes. These modes optimize energy management according to the prevailing driving and road conditions.



The Normal mode is the default setting for the Ampera and is expected to be used most of the time to provide maximum efficiency. When the energy level of the battery drops below its state-of-charge operating window, the Ampera enters extended-range operation, during which the gasoline engine automatically runs to sustain the charge and enable extended-range travel. The battery’s state-of-charge is sustained by regenerative braking, allowing the gasoline generator to rest during long downhill stretches.



The Sport mode automatically reconfigures the accelerator pedal to provide a quicker response. While Sport mode doesn’t provide a higher power output, it does provide a more sensitive reaction to driver inputs.



The Mountain mode automatically adjusts the system to provide necessary power in mountainous environments, when the performance of conventional electric vehicles could be compromised. Mountain mode enables the range-extender to switch on, before the battery reaches its minimum state-of-charge. Drivers should select this mode after a full charge or 10 to 15 minutes before entering mountainous terrain to enable full vehicle capability up sustained grades.



The City mode adapts battery management to the demands of modern commuter travel. Selecting City mode engages the range-extender immediately, saving the energy currently stored in the battery. When City mode is switched off, the range-extender stops and the Ampera is then able to use the energy saved in the battery for pure electric driving, for example in urban areas or restricted zones.

With an average fuel consumption of 4.1 lt/100 km (57.4 US mpg) and CO2 emissions of 109 g/km, the diesel-powered Opel Astra 1.3 CDTI ecoFLEX hatchback was already a frugal and eco-friendly proposal. However, GM's European division decided to do further improve the Astra's green-credentials by adding a rather effective Start and Stop system.

The new start and stop technology helps the hatchback version of the Astra ecoFLEX reduce its CO2 emissions from 109 to just 104 g/km and its combined fuel consumption from 4.1 liters to 3.9 liters per 100 km, which is equal to 60.3 mpg. The Sport Tourer estate version of the Astra ecoFLEX consumes on average 4.1 lt/100 km and emits 109 g/km of CO2.

If there's one thing we can count on from the Paris Motor Show, it's a slew of sexy hatches. Opel was first out of the gate with the GTC Paris Concept, which the automaker is pitching as an obtainable sports car that can still haul five people if the need arises. Under that creased hood sits a turbocharged 2.0-liter gasoline engine good for 290 horsepower, though as small as the GTC Paris is, we can't imagine it would take much to get the hatch to hustle.

We're digging the GTC's hunkered stance, especially in the rear, where a set of flared hips dominate the vehicle's design. If you live in the old country and your mouth is watering at the thought of this slinky German, we've got bad news for you. As of right now, Opel has no plans to bring the GTC Paris Concept to life, but we'd put money on a production version within the next year.

Opel is keeping busy, and aside from moving into a handful of new markets and pulling the sheets off of a hot concept, the German manufacturer has been whittling away on its wagon interpretation of the company's Astra. The 2011 Astra Sports Tourer wears the brand's trademark nose and sculpted sheet metal, but throws in an arching roofline for good measure. Inside, buyers can look forward to a set of snappy folding seats in the rear Opel claims should help make the car appealing to both families and small businesses looking to haul goods.

Power comes from either an uber-thrifty 95-horsepower engine or a more robust 180-pony lump, and a total of three transmissions are available – a five-speed manual, six-speed manual and six-speed automatic. The company says that European buyers can expect to see a start/stop system land on its 1.3-liter turbo-diesel engine in the Astra Sports Tourer as well

Other innovative technical features introduced in the compact segment with the new Astra as:


 We offer eight-Euro 5-compatible engine with exceptional performance.

By now, you've likely already seen official shots of the 2010 Opel Astra, both inside and out. Of course, catching a glimpse of a new shape under the harsh lighting of an auto show often brings a different point of view than the automaker's own glitzy press shots.

In the case of the latest Astra, though, the new car looks nearly as fetching caught with the lenses of our own DSLRs as it did in GM's official photography. We especially like the new Astra's interior furnishings, which are a major step up from the current model's rather boring and somber duds.

While the 2010 Astra won't be coming Stateside as a Saturn like the previous model, GM has promised to bring the latest Detla-based car to American shores (probably in sedan form) wearing the trademark Buick badge and chrome waterfall grille, and none of those plans are expected to change now that The General has offloaded a majority stake in Opel to Magna.

Sometimes it's better to not go overboard with your tuning proposals as not everyone wants to transform their vehicle into a wannabe race car.

For the new Opel Agila, German tuning firm and Opel specialist, Steinmetz, limited its offerings to a new set of fifteen-spoke 17-inch alloy wheels shod in 195/40 R17 tires, a suspension lowering kit that brings the mini 30mm closer to the ground, a chrome tailpipe and decorative trim for the center console plus an aluminum gear knob and a four-piece mat set.

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Opel Astra has always been a great competitor against VW Golf, but the next generation is expected to be even fiercer in its intentions, both because of the slow-selling market and for the fact Opel seems to be in a great moment (just check out how gorgeous and good the new Insignia is).

The next generation Astra was supposed to be presented in Geneva. It wasn’t, but will be, and very soon, according to these leaked images. Although they are in very low resolution, they give us a good idea of what the car has become. Pictures only give us the five door version, but you can expect a three-door, a station wagon and a convertible.

We would also bet on a minivan and a sedan, but there are no rumours in the market about these versions, unless this car was destined to emerging markets. For those models, GM’s vehicle will be Cruze, under all badges necessary (Daewoo, Chevrolet and even Buick).

© Source: eurocarblog
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