- Three world premieres: Opel Grandland X, Opel Insignia GSi and Country Tourer
- Efficient propulsion: Grandland X to be Opel’s first plug-in hybrid
- Opel stand opened: Press conference with Opel boss Michael Lohscheller and Groupe PSA CEO Carlos Tavares
“Our new Grandland X as plug-in hybrid is the next big example of the opportunities that await us as a member of the PSA group,” said Lohscheller at the press conference. “We will follow this path closely.”
Elsewhere, the new top-of-the-line Opel Insignia models also took center stage. The dynamic GSi continues Opel’s long tradition of sporty limousines with that certain something while the all-wheel drive Country Tourer is the right choice for adventurers.
“We are continuing the biggest model offensive in Opel’s history with these three world premieres. We have made decisive additions to our portfolio this year with the electric range champion, the Ampera-e, the Crossland X crossover, the Vivaro Life recreational vehicle and the Grandland X SUV,” explained Lohscheller in Frankfurt. “We at Opel are proud to be part of the PSA Groupe now. Together we will create a European champion. We will do so by continuing to make technology ‘made in Germany’ available to as many customers as possible, thus staying true to our brand credo the future is everyone’s.”
The full press conference can be found here as well as on Facebook and YouTube. Video sequences with the key messages can also be found on Twitter under @OpelNewsroom.
Opel Grandland X: Dynamic compact SUV for booming market
Modern, dynamic lines, a cool off-road look and the elevated seating position with good all-round visibility typical of an SUV, along with a host of top technologies as well as plenty of space and comfort for up to five passengers – this is the new Opel Grandland X. The portfolio of ultra-modern assistance and comfort features for the Grandland X is first class: Automatic Cruise Control with pedestrian detection and Automatic Emergency Braking, Driver Drowsiness Alert, Advanced Park Assist and the 360° Camera are just some highlights. Opel again delivers on its commitment to leadership in lighting technology, equipping the Grandland X with bright driving light thanks to Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) LED headlamps. And the newcomer offers driving fun all year round and on every surface. This is also thanks to the optional electronic IntelliGrip traction that ensures best traction and stable handling regardless of whether the Grandland X is travelling on snow, mud, sand or wet surfaces.
AGR-certified ergonomic front seats (Campaign for Healthier Backs), heated steering wheel as well as seat heating front and rear ensure top comfort. The tailgate that opens and closes with a simple foot movement enables easy access from outside. In typical Opel fashion, Grandland X drivers and passengers enjoy top connectivity with the latest generation of Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatible IntelliLink systems as well as the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar including Wi-Fi Hotspot[1] and new services such as booking hotel rooms[2] and searching for parking[3].
Ideally equipped, the 4.48-meter long Grandland X and third member of the Opel X family is a true contender in the booming SUV class and will further revitalize the segment. In the compact class alone, the SUV share has increased from seven percent in 2010 to nearly 20 percent today. At the same time, the Grandland X expands the extensive Opel portfolio in the very popular compact car segment.
Opel Insignia GSi: Sharp sports machine for driving fun with foresight
Sharper, more precise, even more efficient. The new Opel Insignia GSi is a sports machine – as a limousine or in future as a station wagon – for those who like something special. A driver’s car for maximum fun on all kinds of roads. The standard FlexRide chassis with very dynamic set-up that adapts to prevailing driving style and road conditions in split seconds as well as the new optional Michelin Pilot Sport 4 S tires on 20-inch alloy wheels ensure an extremely high level of grip. The intelligent all-wheel drive with torque vectoring is unique in this segment – with this technology, the new Opel Insignia GSi responds even more directly and precisely to steering commands, offers top lateral grip for maximum stability and shines with exemplary traction. The new eight-speed automatic transmission can be operated via shift-paddles at the steering wheel for an even more active driving experience. Typical of the new Insignia generation is the combination of lightweight design, low center of gravity and 2.0-liter turbo power. This results in excellent balance and a very good power-to-weight ratio, virtues that are also reflected on the stop watch. “The new Insignia GSi is clearly quicker over one lap of the Nürburgring Nordschleife than the more powerful Insignia OPC of the previous generation,” concluded Director Performance Cars & Motorsport, Volker Strycek, during testing. One of the reasons is that the GSi limousine is 160 kilograms lighter than a comparable Insignia OPC 2.8 V6 Turbo. Just like a lean athlete.
Such internal values deserve a special exterior. With large chrome air-intakes at the front and its neat rear fascia with spoiler for the necessary downforce on the rear axle, the GSi’s looks perfectly match the performance. The AGR-certified, leather upholstered, integrated sports seats (specially developed for the GSi), the leather sports steering wheel and the aluminum pedals add the finishing touches.
Opel Insignia Country Tourer: Tough shell, comfortable interior
The new Opel Insignia Country Tourer rounds off the Insignia presence at the IAA. Another top variant in the Insignia family, it captivates with its own special, tough charm also thanks to its stylish appearance. The silver colored skid plate helps to pull the car down to underline the solid stance. Molded black protective cladding around the lower vehicle body and the wheel arches emphasize the rugged appearance. The rear end also delivers adventurous cues, such as a silver colored skid plate and dual exhaust bezels that reinforce the wider impression.
Those who wish to leave asphalt roads behind will welcome 20 millimeters of additional ground clearance along with the all-wheel drive with Twinster torque vectoring and the new five-link rear suspension. Powerful turbo engines ensure lively performance.
Matching the character of the rugged all-rounder, the new Insignia Country Tourer is above all extremely practical, also thanks to an optional sensor-controlled tailgate, standard roof rack as well as a wide portfolio of ultra-modern assistance systems, connectivity possibilities and comfort features.
[1] OnStar Services require activation and account with OnStar Europe Ltd. Wi-Fi Hotspot Services require account with nominated network operator. Charges apply after expiry of applicable trial periods. All services subject to mobile network coverage and availability. Check [LOCAL SITE] for service limitations and charges.
[2] Via Booking.com. E-Mail address and credit card required.
[3] Via Parkopedia
