SCOOP: New Opel Zafira Grows up but Doesn't get FlexDoors

Opel and its sister company Vauxhall are pushing ahead with the development of the next generation Zafira minivan, which was caught here testing by our scoop photographers. The new seven-seat model is expected to grow in dimensions offering improved passenger and luggage space. Unlike the latest Meriva that boasts a pair of suicide doors, the new Zafira will continue to use conventional rear doors.

The sleeker shape of Opel's newcomer can easily be seen beneath the harlequin camouflage, while the pictures suggest that the minivan takes styling cues from both the Insignia and new Astra, including the wing-shaped head lamps.

The interior design will also be more or less inspired by the Astra, while the car's flexibility is reported to have been improved by a revamped three-row flexible seating system providing independent seating for all seven passengers.

The new Zafira will use hardware from the Astra range, so expect a suite of turbocharged diesel and petrol engines, including more eco-friendly and frugal EcoFlex versions and possibly even a sporty OPC / VRX variant.

Look for the next generation of Opel's people mover to make its world premiere at a major international motor show this year with European sales to start in late 2011 or early 2012.

There's no official word about a North American variant, but given that the Zafira is essentially the minivan version of the Astra (which itself forms the base for the new Buick Verano), as well as the fact that Ford is preparing the U.S. launch of the Focus-based C-Max, we wouldn't completely rule out the possibility.

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Vauxhall's Corsa VXR gets the Blues: New Special Edition of 192HP Hot Hatch

To mark the launch of the subtly refreshed Corsa VXR, Vauxhall is introducing a new limited edition version of its hot hatch with an additional kit and a special blue paintjob as standard.

In detail, the new Corsa VXR Blue Edition is finished in an Arden Blue metallic paint and comes fitted with 18-inch alloy wheels, dark-tinted glass, bespoke interior air vents and Recaro seats, which equate to a £445 saving compared with the cost of speccing a ‘standard’ VXR with this kit.

Other standard features include a lowered sports suspension, uprated brakes and switchable Electronic Stability Programme (ESP).

Powering the VXR Blue Edition is a 1.6-liter turbocharged four producing 192PS, which allows for a 0-60mph [96 km/h] sprint time of just 6.8 seconds and a top speed of 140mph [225 km/h]. An overboost feature increases maximum torque to 260+Nm when the driver needs more power.

The price for the limited edition Corsa VXR is set at £19,425 (including 20% VAT), with Vauxhall claiming that it undercuts key rivals such as the Citroen DS3 R and the Mini Cooper Works by up to £3,600.

The sport hatch is available for order now with the first examples to arrive in dealerships in late February.

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Opel Astra ecoFLEX Gets Start/Stop Technology, Returns 60.3 mpg

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.

All ecoFLEX models come equipped with an active aero shutter incorporated in the front grille that channels more air towards the engine at slow speeds for improved cooling and closes at higher speeds to smoothen the airflow around the fascia. The aero shutter is complemented by refined underbody aerodynamics.

Under the bonnet there's a 95HP 1.3-liter diesel engine, mated to a 5-speed manual gearbox. The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is offered as standard.

In Germany, the base price of the Astra ecoFLEX is €19,780 while customers can also benefit from additional tax breaks.

By Csaba Daradics

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2011 New Opel Astra GSI Concept Cars Third Millennium

The new Opel Astra GSi will be unveiled in October at the Paris Auto Show and will go on sale later this year or early in 2011. The 2011 Opel Astra GSi will feature various new design elements, including a re-styled front bumper, new wheel arches, a small rear diffuser and double exhaust pipes.

2011 New Opel Astra GSI Concept Cars Third Millennium

Opel fans al already asking when will the new Astra GSI will make its debut. Today we have the answer for them: the new 2011 Opel Astra GSI will make its debut this autumn at the Paris Motor Show, according to the latest reports from Auto Motor und Sport.

The new Opel Astra GSi 5-door layout back to talk about himself, with eloquent spy photos. The famous symbol will return to sport compact Russelsheim later this year. In fact, the Astra GSi will officially introduce yourself to October at the Paris Motor Show and will be sharing the catwalk in Paris with the new Sports Cars Tourer estate.

The new vehicle will carry, as expected, a 2.0-liter Turbo engine which will deliver around 190 hp… we do hope that this will get at least 200 hp in order to take on the Vw Golf GTI. Regarding the OPC version this will carry over 240 hp. The new Astra GSI will also come with a new body kit which will include wider wheel arches, a new front and rear bumper, new side sills, dual exhaust pipes and a dual-tone interior with Recaro sport buckets. Most sources say the 2011 Opel Astra GSi will only be available in the 5 door body style. The 3 door will be sold only as a OPC / GTC.

The new Opel Astra GSi be the top version of the variant 5-door, while the symbol OPC will be given only to the three-door GTC. The 2011 New Opel Astra GSi third millennium will be equipped with the 2.0 Turbo petrol engine, whose maximum should be around 190-200 horses. The Astra OPC boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged motor with 177kW. The GSI should feature about 140kW or so.

The sports chassis will be recognizable to the wider wheel arches and front bumper changed. At the rear, as well as the letters GSi, Opel Astra in this version will be distinguished for the double exhaust. Even in the cockpit there are specific characterizations, such as two-tone sport seats.

The Astra GSi price will be announced at a later date.

2011 New Opel Astra GSI Concept Cars Third Millennium

The new Opel Astra GSi will be unveiled in October at the Paris Auto Show and will go on sale later this year or early in 2011. The 2011 Opel Astra GSi will feature various new design elements, including a re-styled front bumper, new wheel arches, a small rear diffuser and double exhaust pipes.

2011 New Opel Astra GSI Concept Cars Third Millennium

Opel fans al already asking when will the new Astra GSI will make its debut. Today we have the answer for them: the new 2011 Opel Astra GSI will make its debut this autumn at the Paris Motor Show, according to the latest reports from Auto Motor und Sport.

The new Opel Astra GSi 5-door layout back to talk about himself, with eloquent spy photos. The famous symbol will return to sport compact Russelsheim later this year. In fact, the Astra GSi will officially introduce yourself to October at the Paris Motor Show and will be sharing the catwalk in Paris with the new Sports Cars Tourer estate.

The new vehicle will carry, as expected, a 2.0-liter Turbo engine which will deliver around 190 hp… we do hope that this will get at least 200 hp in order to take on the Vw Golf GTI. Regarding the OPC version this will carry over 240 hp. The new Astra GSI will also come with a new body kit which will include wider wheel arches, a new front and rear bumper, new side sills, dual exhaust pipes and a dual-tone interior with Recaro sport buckets. Most sources say the 2011 Opel Astra GSi will only be available in the 5 door body style. The 3 door will be sold only as a OPC / GTC.

The new Opel Astra GSi be the top version of the variant 5-door, while the symbol OPC will be given only to the three-door GTC. The 2011 New Opel Astra GSi third millennium will be equipped with the 2.0 Turbo petrol engine, whose maximum should be around 190-200 horses. The Astra OPC boasts a 2.0-litre turbocharged motor with 177kW. The GSI should feature about 140kW or so.

The sports chassis will be recognizable to the wider wheel arches and front bumper changed. At the rear, as well as the letters GSi, Opel Astra in this version will be distinguished for the double exhaust. Even in the cockpit there are specific characterizations, such as two-tone sport seats.

The Astra GSi price will be announced at a later date.

Opel GT

Opel GT

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Opel GT

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2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Think of the Opel Flextreme GT/E concept as a bigger Chevrolet Volt (or Opel Ampera if you're European). The idea behind this concept, which will debut at the Geneva Motor Show (March 4 - 14, 2010), is to show how the Volt's extended-range electric vehicle drivetrain can be used in a larger vehicle, in this case a mid-size five-door hatchback. And it will boost the company's credentials as a leader in green technologies, offering expressive design with efficient environmental performance - and engineered with German precision.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

In Opel's strategy for achieving more independence from fossil fuels, electricity plays a key role. The 4.7-meter long Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept illustrates how extended-range electric vehicle (E-REV) technology can be plugged into large or mid-size vehicles, as well as compact cars such as the upcoming Opel Ampera. Opel calls this strategy e-mobility unlimited: adapting the highly efficient E-REV drive system - which removes the limitations of battery-only power - to vehicles across all market segments. To enjoy zero CO2 driving emissions Opel-style, the Flextreme GT/E concept shows that size doesn't matter.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The purposeful design also enables the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept to achieve a projected drag co-efficient of just 0.22, which helps it reach a 200 km/h-plus top speed as well as conserve energy and extend its driving range. Stand-out visual features include a low and wide stance, wing-shaped lights front and rear, a distinctive nose and grille, floating C-pillars and muscular, sculptured bodywork.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The clean, frontal styling features a low hood line and an extended nose section, which is clasped by wing-shaped, signature LED headlamps. These are deeply carved into the front fenders and across the hood line. The new trapezoidal grille execution is slim but bold. The prominent wing-shaped chrome bar carries a large Opel emblem, which doubles as a socket for charging the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept's battery pack. The upper section of the grille is used to admit cooling air, the lower portion being covered by a translucent panel. The absence of additional air intakes allows a low frontal area for aerodynamic efficiency and also enables the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept to meet future pedestrian protection requirements.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

In profile, the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept is distinguished by innovative, stubbed C-pillars. This floating design allows the glasshouse to be extended rearwards under the arching roofline, emphasizing the flowing lines of the side body. The car's dynamic character is further underlined by a fresh expression of Opel's signature blade motif, now a swooping swage line from the base of the C-pillar into the lower front fender. The translucency of the fixed glass panel in the center of the roof is adaptive, allowing sunlight to warm the interior in the cold of winter, but darkening for coolness in summer. A duct at the rear edge of the roof is for additional cooling of the battery and electronic components.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Integral to the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept's expressive looks is the efficiency of the design execution. The small frontal area, low roof height (1308 mm) and a flat, enclosed underbody all enable the car to cleave the air with a minimum of disturbance. The 21-inch alloy wheels are relatively narrow, to reduce wind resistance, and fitted with 195/45, low rolling resistance tires. Clear, flush-mounted trim inserts also minimize air turbulence.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept also explores the potential for active shape shifting. At speeds above 50 km/h, a vertical panel extends along the body from the air extraction slot behind each rear wheel-arch. These 350 mm-long side spoilers guide high-speed airflow around the rear corners of the car, further reducing the amount of turbulence.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Mass reduction measures for the body include the use of lightweight, carbon composite outer panels, polycarbonate window glazing and aluminum alloy structural components. Compared to conventional materials, these offer a 40 percent weight saving which further contributes to reduced energy consumption and an increased driving range.

The efficient concept also includes GM's ground-breaking E-REV drive system, already developed for the Opel Ampera. The Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept shows the versatility of this technology by displaying it in a larger, mid-size vehicle format.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

Despite its greater size and a maximum speed of more than 200 kilometers per hour, the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept is projected to offer performance similar to that of the Ampera: a battery-powered driving range of up to 60 km - with zero CO2 tailpipe emissions - and a total range of more than 500 km. Average fuel consumption is estimated at 1.6 l/100 km, with CO2 emissions of less than 40 g/km. Unlike a hybrid vehicle, the wheels of the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept are powered at all times by electricity. For typical journeys up to 60 km, energy is supplied by a T-shaped lithium-ion battery pack located under the floor and rear seat.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

However, unlike a battery-only electric vehicle, the Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept eliminates any possibility of range anxiety through fear of being stranded without power. The small gasoline engine/generator is seamlessly engaged to provide electricity whenever the battery's supply becomes depleted. In this mode, the driving range is extended to more than 500 km, until the plug-in battery pack can be recharged or the car is refueled. The motor in the electric drive unit delivers a substantial 370 Nm of instant torque, giving lively performance and projected zero to 100 km/h acceleration in less than nine seconds.

2010 Opel Flextreme GT/E Concept with E-REV Drive System

The Flextreme GT/E concept is a further step in Opel's unfolding strategy for the electrification of the automobile, which includes a wide portfolio of products using battery, extended-range, hybrid and fuel cell technologies.

Opel's Antwerp plant to close, trade union says

General Motors plans to close Opel's Belgian plant with the loss of more than 2,300 jobs, a German trade union official said Thursday, as workers blockaded the factory parking lot in protest.

Franco Biagiotti, the head of the employee council at the German Bochum plant, told the DAPD press agency that the head of Adam Opel GmbH, Nick Reilly, had said this week that the Antwerp plant would close.

Opel had no comment on speculation that it would announce the closure later Thursday.

Workers in Antwerp occupied the factory's parking lot in protest at the possible job losses, telling reporters that cars would be "kept hostage."

Local press reports say the plant's management will hold a meeting Thursday to discuss the future of the factory.

The fate of the Antwerp plant has been uncertain for some time. When General Motors Co. planned to sell its European car making unit to Canada's Magna and Russia's Sberbank last year, the bidders said they would close it down. GM later decided against selling its European business.

German daily Welt reported Thursday that most of Antwerp's Astra production is to be transferred to the plant in Bochum, citing anonymous sources from the worker council.

Opel said in 2007 that it would stop making the Astra at Antwerp and would possibly replace it with midsize Chevrolet models or sports utility vehicles -- heavier cars that now find few buyers as cash-for-clunkers programs and cash-strapped customers favor more fuel-efficient cars.

Belgium's De Standaard newspaper said GM would lay out details of restructuring for all European factories at a Jan. 28 meeting with unions.

The Belgian government has tried to stave off the Antwerp plant's closure by earlier this year offering the company up to euro500 million ($707 million) to upgrade the facilities.

Opel's Antwerp plant to close, trade union says

General Motors plans to close Opel's Belgian plant with the loss of more than 2,300 jobs, a German trade union official said Thursday, as workers blockaded the factory parking lot in protest.

Franco Biagiotti, the head of the employee council at the German Bochum plant, told the DAPD press agency that the head of Adam Opel GmbH, Nick Reilly, had said this week that the Antwerp plant would close.

Opel had no comment on speculation that it would announce the closure later Thursday.

Workers in Antwerp occupied the factory's parking lot in protest at the possible job losses, telling reporters that cars would be "kept hostage."

Local press reports say the plant's management will hold a meeting Thursday to discuss the future of the factory.

The fate of the Antwerp plant has been uncertain for some time. When General Motors Co. planned to sell its European car making unit to Canada's Magna and Russia's Sberbank last year, the bidders said they would close it down. GM later decided against selling its European business.

German daily Welt reported Thursday that most of Antwerp's Astra production is to be transferred to the plant in Bochum, citing anonymous sources from the worker council.

Opel said in 2007 that it would stop making the Astra at Antwerp and would possibly replace it with midsize Chevrolet models or sports utility vehicles -- heavier cars that now find few buyers as cash-for-clunkers programs and cash-strapped customers favor more fuel-efficient cars.

Belgium's De Standaard newspaper said GM would lay out details of restructuring for all European factories at a Jan. 28 meeting with unions.

The Belgian government has tried to stave off the Antwerp plant's closure by earlier this year offering the company up to euro500 million ($707 million) to upgrade the facilities.

Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer

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- Top power: High performance station wagon must complete 10,000 km on Nürburgring - Top package: 325 hp, 435 Nm, Adaptive 4x4 and 1530 liters load capacity - Top points: Insignia OPC sedan testing passed with flying colors Rüsselsheim/Nürburgring. The Insignia OPC Sports Tourer will hit dealerships later this year, but first it has to go through hell – the Green Hell of the Nürgurgring's Nordschleife, considered the toughest, most demanding and dangerous race track in the world. Opel engineers insist that all vehicles in their OPC range complete a rigorous 10,000 kilometer testing around the 20.8 km Nordschleife of the Nürburgring, dubbed the Green Hell by legendary race car driver Jackie Stewart. Just a few days ago, the Insignia OPC sedan finished the challenge with no problems. “The Insignia OPC sedan raced 487 laps for 12 days at some top speeds flawlessly. This kind of performance and quality is what we expect from all our Opel cars,” says Hans Demant, Managing Director of Opel. The Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer boasts a 325 hp/239 kW, 435 Nm 2.8-liter V6 Turbo engine for maximum power. It features high-tech elements, like a lower, reworked mechatronic chassis with FlexRide, an Adaptive 4x4 transmission with an electronic rear limited slip differential (eLSD) and purpose-built Brembo brakes – all complemented by spacious station wagon functionality with 1530 liters of load capacity. Automotive technology at its best Like the Insignia OPC sedan, the Sports Tourer is full of technological highlights. The OPC engine is 25 percent more powerful than the 260 hp version of the 2.8 V6 Turbo in the Insignia Sport and Cosmo. The increase in power was obtained by reworking the exhaust, significantly reducing the counter pressure, with special mufflers contributing to a sporty, deep sound. The unit comes with a six-speed manual transmission, enabling acceleration from zero to 100 in 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 250 km/h (restricted). The management unit of the Adaptive 4x4 with eLSD has been recalibrated to adapt torque distribution to the sporty philosophy of the OPC. Engineers at the Opel Performance Center developed a specific high-performance front axle called HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) for the chassis, which is 10 mm lower than the AWD Insignia Sport version. Benefits include reduced steering disturbances and an improved handling feel for the driver. The OPC's standard electronic FlexRide suspension has been adjusted for extra performance and caters to those enjoying a sportier ride. It offers three different sporty choices: The standard mode provides its most comfortable ride, a Sport mode is stiffer and a new OPC setting brings optimal fun. Tough Track: 12 days, 27,000 gear shifts, 35,551 curves and 487 laps Before it hits the roads in the fall, the new Opel Insignia OPC Sports Tourer will take its turn against the Green Hell: 10,000 fast kilometers on the Nordschleife translates to around 180,000 kilometers on the road. Modified tuning accommodates the station wagon's shifted center of gravity, which is why the Sports Tourer suspension will be tested separately on the Ring. Even though the 20.8 kilometer, extremely demanding track is part of the standard OPC program, this extra validation is always something special for Volker Strycek and his team. The ex-German Car Championship driver and Manager of the Opel Performance Center sums up: Twelve drivers, Opel design engineers and Nordschleife connoisseurs trade off behind the wheel of a production Insignia OPC for 12 days, rain or shine. “It really can take a toll on a those 12 days add up to 27,000 gear shifts along 35,551 curves during a total of 487 laps.” Validation Coordinator Jens Hornischer, who drives a major part of the endurance test distance, says, “We push the car to give a constant 90 percent or so – and that is really a tough test for any car. And there is next to no preparation work.” An Arden Blue Insignia OPC sedan completed its rite of passage earlier in May, confirming the high quality standard that Opel customers expect. Opel's long tradition of sport station wagons offers best of both worlds The Insignia OPC Sports Tourer is the latest chapter in a long station wagon success story. As a pioneer in this segment, Opel brought the Olympia Rekord Car-A-van, a combination of car and van, to Europe in 1953. In 1970 Opel built the Ascona Voyage, the first lifestyle station wagon. The next innovation in this segment followed in 1991, when Opel presented the most powerful production station wagon in the world, the Omega Caravan 24V, a 3-liter, straight-six cylinder with 204 hp. The Vectra OPC continued the Opel tradition of powerful station wagons. It was available from 2005, ultimately as a high-performance front-wheel drive model with 280 hp. The new 325 hp Opel Insignia OPC takes a huge step forward in terms of driving dynamics with even more power and the Adaptive 4x4 system. And the dynamic Sports Tourer version is also bound to turn heads. OPC: At home on the Nordschleife Opel testing on Nürburgring's Nordschleife has a long tradition dating back to the 1960s and sealed when the German brand signed a partner contract with the legendary race track in 2006. It was then that the Rüsselsheim automaker opened its own test center directly at the Ring. The venue offers ideal testing conditions, particularly for Opel's OPC models. The current high-performance model portfolio includes the Corsa OPC, Astra OPC, Meriva OPC and Zafira OPC in addition to the Insignia OPC notchback, hatchback and Sports Tourer. While the special “Nürburgring Edition” model of the Astra OPC honors the demanding race track, the Astra “OPC Race Camp” pays tribute to the second season of a wildly successful race driver casting. The OPC Race Camp offer ambitious drivers with no motorsport experience the opportunity to discover their motor racing talents through a rigorous talent scouting process and numerous qualification stages. Those who have the necessary abilities then receive professional instruction to hone their skills and prepare them for competitive motor racing. Opel provides the professional training, cars and necessary organizational support for the Race Camp. Currently 750 candidates from a total of 22,000 applicants are undergoing the training and elimination process led by former race drivers and Opel brand ambassadors Manuel Reuter and Joachim Winkelhock. All hope to land one of the 10 coveted spots on the driver team for the two Astra racing cars that participate in the 24-hour race on the Nürburgring next year.

source : Opel Press

Opel Astra

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Opel Astra

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Opel Insignia Sports Tourer

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