Jalopnik: vauxhall

Opel Insignia OPC: First Drive

Ben Wojdyla — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:00:00 EST

The Opel Insignia OPC is based on the same platform as the new-for-the-US Buick Regal, but adds the torque-vectoring Haldex AWD system from the Saab 9-3 Turbo X and a 325 HP turbocharged V6. Can anyone say "GNX?"

If you read our review of the 2011 Buick Regal, it was pretty plain to see we liked the car a lot. It's probably the most fun, nicest-looking, sporty FWD mid-size sedan in the market. And we're saying that about a Buick, not an Acura TSX or Mazda6.

The Regal is more or less exactly the same as the Euro-spec Opel Insignia, which means by commutative property, since we like the Regal, we like the Opel Insignia. When GM takes that enjoyable, 220 HP front wheel drive car and puts a stonkin' 325 HP, 2.8-liter turbocharged V6 with a six speed manual and a Haldex all-wheel-drive system in it capable of rear-axle torque vectoring, it's a fair bet we'll be giddy with excitement. Then they add 14-inch (front) Brembo binders, Recaro bucket seats, 20 inch wheels and body work so aggressive it makes one's inner hoon squeal. GM brought one along during the Regal drive and let us have a crack at it.

It might not be the fastest, hardest cornering, most extreme factory tuner in the world, but God damn it looks good. This could have the three-cylinder wheeze-fest from an old Geo Metro and we'd still want to roll around naked on it. That's not to say it isn't fast, 0-60 MPH takes 5.8 seconds, which is impressive for a car that weighs 3,990 Lbs.

But lifting off the accelerator is a high crime. Maybe it's the super-grippy Recaro buckets, the Darth Vader meets Tron interior graphics or the knowledge that you're driving one of the only OPC's to ever grace these shores, but you can't help but drop the transmission down a couple cogs and obliterate the speed limit with dangerous regularity. It's easy to find oneself hunting for even the slightest bend in the road to exaggerate into a high speed corner. The car's good, but more importantly, it's involving.

The OPC bases much of its greasy bits on the Saab 9-3 Turbo X powertrain, though it's tuned to a higher level, it makes many of the same moves. That Saab had only 280 HP, but the torque vectoring AWD system is identical.

Compared to the Regal, the Insignia OPC is more of a boy racer, such things are obvious based on the obnoxious body work and giant wheels, but it lives at an interesting intersection of hooligan and grown up. The car is tighter in corners, but doesn't punish you over jarring bumps, turn-in is faster, but it isn't tiresome. Should you lose your mind and want a more sedate experience, you can turn the car down a couple notches with three different suspension settings, each progressively softer until its throttle response and damping rate is rather pedestrian.

The fact that GM brought this car to a Buick Regal media launch is not a signal lost on us. We aren't saying GM is preparing a version for the United States, but the shoulder shrugs and veiled smirks from GM engineers say they're at least thinking about it. Although there was much talk of the letters "G," "N," and "X" but none of it coming from anyone wearing a GM badge — and unfortunately, GM's CEO's already nixed the idea. Still, a car fan-boy can dream, can't we?

GM Board Recommends Selling Majority Stake in Opel and Vauxhall to Magna

Ray Wert — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 09:45:00 EDT

BREAKING: GM board recommends sale of majority stake in Opel, Vauxhall to Magna. [GM]

Vauxhall Victor, Ford Zodiac, Citroën DS

Murilee Martin — Sun, 09 Aug 2009 15:00:00 EDT

This is Down On The Street Bonus Edition, where we check out interesting street-parked cars located in places other than the Island That Rust Forgot. You never know what you'll find in Copenhagen!

I've been falling really, really behind on Down On The Street Bonus Edition photos, so I'm going to try to get back on track with the series today with this contribution from Kim Of Copenhagen.:

Encouraging to see both the International & the SAAB and the stuff I wrote on Jalopnik, so here's some more. I thought of sending pics of an Amazon as well, to complement the story below, but they appear on Jalopnik often enough.

In the mid-1960's the Danish police force used the Ford Zodiac's downscale sibling, the Zephyr. The latter shared the wide body of the former, which was taken advantage of by the so-called 'Volvo Robber', who more often than not would use a stolen Volvo Amazon as the getaway car after break-ins and bank robberies. Once he carefully planned his escape route through a tight spot where a Zephyr was just a bit too wide, and thus manged to evade The Law. He was hardly a Robin Hood type, but the press as well as the public loved the story.

This Zodiac is literally the first I've seen on the street for 30+ years. That goes for the Vauxhall Victor too. Note the cross stitch pillow in the rear window - a common home-made accessory of the early 60's.

The Citroên is not as rare a beast, because the few that didn't rust away before mandatory bi-annual inspections were introduced ten years ago, are usually well kept and keep their value. One could reasonably argue that this was the last beautiful Citroên design.

DOTS FAQ

British Postwar Car Ads

Murilee Martin — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 16:00:00 EDT

Not long ago, one of the 24 Hours Of LeMons perpetrators gave me a big box of Autocar magazines from the 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. Talk about your great British print car ads!

Autocar has been around forever- since 1895, in fact- and even has the distinction of having fired James May (for inserting a secret message in an issue reading "So you think it's really good yeah you should try making the bloody thing up it's a real pain in the arse"). I'm definitely looking forward to some enjoyable reading with this haul; just a quick flip through the stack produced this sextet of PCH Gold machines, including the 1951 Hillman Minx Magnificent, the 1950 Vauxhalls, the 1962 Triumph Herald, the 1951 Singer 1000, the 1957 Daimler One-O-Four, and the 1961 Wolseley Hornet. Whoa, it's a red-letter day for Wolseley Hornet aficionados! Enjoy:

New Vauxhall Astra Interior Is Definitely Not Saturn-Like

Ben Wojdyla — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 16:15:00 EDT

We've already seen the 2010 Opel Astra and its Volkswagen-y nose and a touch of Mazda3 hiney, but this is the first look at the Vauxhall re-badge and a first glimpse at what looks like a handsome Insignia-like interior.

This new Vauxhall, much like its Opel twin, evolves the current design to something much more mature for the times, borrowing heavily from Volkswagen's clean friendly designs of recent. Inside though it's very much Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, with common design elements abound. It looks to us like a great place to do some major driving. You'll be able to test out that new car smell in the latest Astra if you're in the neighborhood for its official unveiling at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, until then, here's the latest and greatest in press releases:

NEXT GENERATION ASTRA: THE INSIDE STORY
* Clever packaging means more occupant comfort and space
* Distinctive exterior design cues echoed in cabin
* Quality feel throughout cabin enhanced by extensive use of premium materials

Luton - These are the first interior pictures of the Vauxhall Astra, which will debut at this September's Frankfurt Motor Show and will reach UK dealers by late this year.

Echoing the flowing forms of its bodywork, the new Astra's interior marks a major shift towards premium design and quality in the UK's compact sector, and continues Vauxhall's design evolution which started five years ago with the current Astra, followed by a further step-change last year with the launch of the Insignia.

The Astra's interior employs the recurring wing and blade motifs that were first introduced in the Insignia and are now used in a fresh and innovative way. The blade theme is expressed in details like the gooseneck shape of the door grab handles and the trim for the gearshift moulding and steering wheel.

As you look at the Astra's wraparound instrument panel, which embraces both front seat occupants, the wing design is immediately visible as it arcs across the cabin into the door-top mouldings. The dashboard has a black, grained finish with a subtly different texture to other mouldings in the cabin.

Ambient lighting enhances the quality feel of the cabin, with lighting points framing the gearbox surround, and providing illumination from above the centre console and within the door handle recesses, depending on trim level.

The feeling of cabin space and depth is augmented by a centre panel mounted at a shallow 30-degree angle, which sweeps down from the top of the instrument panel to the centre console, creating a flowing surface that incorporates the gearshift. Like the Insignia, the Astra's main clocks and gauges are ringed with chrome, with the speedometer and tachometer pods angled inwards towards the driver.

Special emphasis has gone into the design and engineering of the Astra's seats, which now have industry-leading levels of adjustment. Their height can be raised by up to 65mm, while their fore and aft range extends to 280mm, allowing all drivers and passengers to find their ideal seating position. In addition, the Ergonomic Sports Seats (standard in all Elite models) have improved tilt adjustment, four-way power lumbar support, superior side support and supporting foam pads.

STORAGE AND PACKAGING
‘So do people actually put gloves in their gloveboxes?'

This was one of the many questions put to potential customers by Vauxhall's designers as they researched what people stored in their cars, and where they put various items in their cabins. As a result, the new generation Astra has a raft of clever storage solutions unparalleled in the compact sector, some of which have even been patented.

Using feedback from the survey, the interior team first compiled a list of the 20 most common items customers stored in the cars: pens, coins, a flashlight, a road atlas, a parking disc, sunglasses, a wallet, paper tissues, a mobile phone, CDs, MP3 players, cups, magazines, newspapers, fruit, a first aid kit, a jacket, a 1.5/1.0/0.5-litre drinks bottle. And, of course, gloves.

Next, they noted where owners wanted to keep the items and looked for practical solutions. They found that car companies tended to focus on storage size alone, and that led to irritating problems, such as CDs being stored in the centre console, preventing the arm rest from being fully dropped down.

Max Kuncl, the team's Performance Integration Manager likened the challenge to a puzzle: "It was important for the team not only to find places for the items to fit, but for the new Astra's interior to still look great, and maintain high quality standards throughout the cabin."

This painstaking attention to detail has resulted in a variety of simple, but effective storage solutions. A hard-shelled sunglass case has been inserted above the door opening on the driver's side; coin slots and pen holders are moulded into the inside edge of the glove box lid; and the glove box itself has two removable compartments, while a second mini-glove box has been added just below the light switch.

Further storage innovation is illustrated by the centre console, which can accommodate nine CD cases, as well as having a small storage area and an insert for two cup holders. There's also the option of an under-seat drawer beneath the passenger seat which is big enough to hold a pair of shoes. Rear passengers also benefit, with a 12-volt connection available for mp3 players, in addition to space for drinks bottles.

The new Astra's boot also came under close scrutiny. A recess was created in the side of the boot to accept either a first aid kit or warning triangle, while a patented Flex-Floor was devised to offer further under-floor storage, while the floor itself can be fixed at different heights.

And those gloves? According to the survey, most owners don't keep them in the glovebox at all. They usually get thrown in the door's side pocket, next to the ice scraper.

MATERIALS & QUALITY
"Our goal was to make the perceptual quality in the interior of the next generation Astra as great as that of the Vauxhall Insignia," says Peter Hasselbach, in charge of Design Appearance Quality. "This is in line with Vauxhall's mission to bring innovations and quality to the compact class."

The quality of the materials used in the new Astra can be seen in areas like the grained surfaces, the textured panels, the chrome trim elements and the feel and operation of the buttons and switches. In addition, all the Astra's main surfaces are textured with upscale materials and top grains to give a strong, premium feel.

Behold! The Pimped-Out Bedford Ice Cream Van

Peter Orosz — Wed, 17 Jun 2009 09:00:00 EDT

A mysterious British customizer proves even the lowliest of vehicles — a Bedford ice cream van — can transform into objects of desire.

The 1957 Cadillac Eldorado Brougham, the 2009 Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 and now this: a Bedford ice cream van. All vehicles which have sprung forth from the garnantuan corpus of General Motors over the decades. They all are awesome. The Caddy and the Vette by default—the Bedford by the copious application of vehicular art.

Bedford Vehicles used to make trucks as the commercial subsidiary of Vauxhall, GM’s British offshoot, before dying a slow, ugly death. Scratch that: it’s lorries, not trucks. Military lorries, ambulances, mobile cinema lorries and the ice cream vans which still dot the British landscape.

Except they generally don’t look like this one, bagged on Prince of Wales Road in Camden Town, around the edges of a council estate (that’s British for project housing). Bedford vans don’t usually come in rich slatherings of bianco fuji paint with a hint of pistachio. Nor did the British commercial vehicle industry ever harbor an especially wholesome relationship with huge-ass chrome dubs. Or screw-on dual exhaust tips.

This lovely van was parked behind thick metal bars, so unfortunately, this is as close as I could get. And no, I had nothing to do with that discarded cone of ice cream. Sometimes, circumstances simply conspire to create car art. I’m sorry, scratch that: it’s lorry art.

Magna To Buy Opel If German Government Gives OK

Wes Siler — Fri, 29 May 2009 11:00:00 EDT

Car parts manufacturer Magna has agreed to buy GM Europe, which includes the Opel and Vauxhall brands, according to BBC News. The German government still needs to approve the deal, but may choose insolvency instead.

Fiat, the other potential buyer, elected not to attend today's talks. GM is expected to declare Chapter 11 bankruptcy on Monday.

The German government will be meeting later today to discuss whether to approve the deal. The hesitation comes due to reports that it may be cheaper to allow GM Europe to enter insolvency before its purchase. Germany wants to keep GM Europe alive to protect manufacturing in that country, but doesn't want to spend anything like the tens of billions of dollars the US government has invested. Germany has already issued nearly $2 billion in loan guarantees to the company. [via BBC]

Vauxhall Insignia Sport Tourer VXR: A Spectacular 320 HP Wagon You Can't Have

Ben Wojdyla — Wed, 20 May 2009 11:00:00 EDT

We told you to expect a Vauxhall Insignia Sport Tourer VXR. Lo-and-behold, here it is, a 320 HP, 6.0 second 0-to-60 MPH all-wheel-drive sport wagon that you can't get in the US. Lust and anger.

Take all the benefits of GM's Insignia VXR, the turbocharged 2.8 liter V6 good for 320 HP, the all-wheel-drive, electronically controlled limited slip differential, Brembo brakes, tighter suspension, bigger wheels and tires, the aggressively handsome styling, gorgeous Recaro bucket seats and then open it up in wagon form for a total load area of a whopping 54 cubic feet and you've got a totally lustworthy automobile.Unfortunately the colonies will not be receiving this latest foreign-only masterpiece. General Motors, our patience with you is wearing very thin.

NEW INSIGNIA VXR SPORTS TOURER PACKS POWER, POISE AND ALL YOUR PARAPHERNALIA
* Fastest ever Vauxhall estate with 6-second 0-60 time
* 1530-litre load capability combined with Adaptive 4x4 chassis and 325 horsepower
* Third and final body style to be offered in Insignia VXR spec

Luton – With 10,000 kilometres of gruelling validation at the world's most fearsome and demanding test track now under their belt, the Vauxhall Insignia VXR hatch and saloon are set to raise the bar in their sector with a heady mix of high performance, practicality and sophisticated dynamics.

And now, adding even greater versatility to the range, Vauxhall can confirm that the Insignia VXR Sports Tourer will be the third body style to join the line up and will be available in UK dealerships this autumn, after enduring the same rigorous testing at the notorious Nürburgring Circuit.

Combining all the technical highlights of the VXR hatch and saloon with best in class-matching luggage capacity (rear seats up), the VXR Sports Tourer is not only the fastest estate car Vauxhall has ever produced, but also the first to incorporate Adaptive 4x4 and an electronic limited slip differential (eLSD).

Like its saloon and hatch siblings, the VXR Sports Tourer sits 10 millimetres lower than the regular Sports Tourer, and features the unique HiPerStrut system, which reduces torque-steer and maintains negative camber during cornering, thereby improving wet and dry grip levels.

Complementing these features are standard 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch lightweight forged alloys are a cost option) with bespoke tyres, revised bushing and damper settings on both axles, and Brembo brakes with colour-keyed callipers and vented/cross-drilled discs.

And with 325PS, the Brembos are a must. Using a modified version of the 2.8-litre turbocharged V6 engine that's standard in the Insignia Elite model, the Sports Tourer VXR will hit 60mph from zero in 6.0 seconds and a limited top speed of 155mph.

Inside, the Sports Tourer's performance credentials are laid bare, with its front Recaro seats, VXR steering wheel and gearknob, as well as different instrument graphics, VXR sill plates and black headlining.

But where the VXR Sports Tourer really scores is in its versatility. With 540-litres of load space with the 40:60 split rear seats up, the SportsTourer matches the best in class. Drop the 40:60 split rear seats and you have a maximum load volume of 1530-litres.

Accessing this area has never been easier, thanks to the Sports Tourer VXR's standard electronic tailgate, which can be operated off the driver's key fob, or via a rotary knob on the inside of the driver's door. Using these functions, not only can the opening height of the tailgate be restricted, but it can also be pre-set at a lower level if you frequently park in a garage with a low ceiling.

Deeper bumpers, front mesh grilles and dual matt chrome exhausts are among the Sports Tourer VXR's visual armoury, complemented by a colour palette comprising Arden Blue, Power Red, Carbon Flash Black (pictured), Silver Lake, Olympic White and Technical Grey.

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

Prices for the Insignia VXR range will be announced early summer.

Vauxhall Insignia Wagon To Become Euro-Cop's Best Friend

Ben Wojdyla — Tue, 19 May 2009 08:00:00 EDT

The Insignia doesn't sell in the US, either in Opel or Vauxhall form, because GM hates you. But police in Europe will be able to get the wagon version with cop brakes, cop suspension.

The new Insignia is a pretty sweet piece of kit, especially in Sports Tourer form, and especially when outfitted for police duty. There are three engine options for departments to choose from, a 2.0 liter diesel with 156 HP, a a 2.0 liter gas engine with 216 HP, or the top-line 2.8 liter gas engine with a stout 256 HP. The two higher power models come with all-wheel-drive and are considered the "high speed pursuit" models, which is pretty quaint by US standards, paved goat paths for roads will do that.

The cars also come with light bars, sirens, special liveries, a built in computer terminal, automatic number plate recognition system and various communications equipment. We're betting the sirens still sound silly, no matter how cool the car is.

WHY CROOKS SHOULD FEAR THE CAR OF THE YEAR…
* New Police-specification Insignia announced
* 160PS 2.0 CDTi diesel or 260PS 2.8-litre, or 2.0-litre 220PS turbo petrol engines
* Available to order as a ‘turnkey' vehicle, no conversion required

Following its crowning glory as 2009 European Car of the Year and the recent launch of the all-new Sports Tourer, it may seem there's no getting away from the Vauxhall Insignia.

And now, there really isn't! GM UK Special Vehicles has pulled the wraps off the all-new Police specification version of the car, which can be supplied to order to Police fleets throughout the UK.

Three versions are available. A high-speed pursuit car featuring either 2.0-litre 220PS turbo or a 2.8-litre 260PS petrol engine and all-wheel drive, or a 160PS 2.0 CDTi patrol car, with a choice of body styles – although it's the Sports Tourer that is expected to be the most popular among British forces thanks to its ability to swallow cones, signs and beacons, all part of the daily routine for a Police vehicle in the UK.

"We believe the Insignia gives us a great opportunity for the UK Police vehicle market," said Dick Ellam, GM UK Manager, Vehicle Conversions. "Already we've had a great response from professional police drivers, who have compared its performance and handling characteristics to those of more expensive premium-badged vehicles used by some forces. In these tough economic times, when Police forces are spending public money, this makes the Insignia an even more appealing option."

The Police Insignia is available to order direct from GM UK Special Vehicles and comes equipped from the production line with all of the necessary patrol car equipment, including Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) cameras, Automatic Numberplate Recognition (ANPR) system, roof lightbar with 360 blues, side alley lamps, sirens and full comms radio equipment.

The cars are based on standard models from the Insignia range and are converted in a special facility at GM's proving ground in Millbrook, Bedfordshire.

This ‘turnkey' solution is ideal for Police forces in the UK, as GM UK Special Vehicles can supply ready-made police vehicles to order at very short notice, for example if a patrol car is written off in a collision. As well as the new Insignia, Vauxhall supplies Police-prepared variants of all of its model ranges including commercial vehicles, along with applications for other emergency services such as ambulances, high-speed paramedic response vehicles and support vehicles for fire brigades.

[Source: GM]

Opel/Vauxhall Dealers OK Plan To Buy Stake In Automaker

Ray Wert — Fri, 15 May 2009 09:15:00 EDT

Opel/Vauxhall dealers OK plan to buy 10-20% stake in automaker for 500 million Euros. [AutoNews]

2010 Opel Astra: Cruze, Volt Get A German Brother

The Auto Insider — Tue, 12 May 2009 16:00:00 EDT

The 2010 Opel Astra sports a new set of 1.4- and 1.6-liter turbocharged engines and sits on the same Global Delta platform as the Cruze and Volt. But will we ever see this tri-Delta here?

The 2010 Opel Astra is scheduled to make its world premiere in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show, but we've got the full scoop on the new Insignia-inspired, compact, 5-door hatchback. Riding on the same Global Delta platform as the Chevy Cruze and Volt, the Astra will be propelled by either an entry level 1.4-liter four-cylinder engine with various power options, 120-horsepower to 140-horsepower, or an Insignia-derived 1.6-liter turbocharged gas engine with 180 horsepower. According to GM, the smaller 1.4-liter turbo engine is capable of an 8 percent gain in fuel economy over the replaced 1.6- and 1.8-liter engines from the current Astra. Also available at launch is a range of diesel engines delivering added fuel efficiency through an optional 1.3-, 1.7 or 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. Expect to also see an ecoFlex low CO2 model in 2010 with even more of an increase in fuel economy.

The 2010 Opel (and Vauxhall) Astra 5-door will go on sale in Europe shortly after its Frankfurt debut this fall with a sportier 3-door and a wagon version following in early 2011. With Saturn having been scraped off GM's collective brand plate, is there a chance for us on this side of the pond to ever get the new Astra? We'll be keeping our eyes and ears open for even the slightest possibility with our fingers and toes fully crossed. [via GM]

2010 Opel Astra Gets "Full Lutz" Skirt-Lift

Ray Wert — Mon, 11 May 2009 08:00:00 EDT

Opel's revealed a set of skirt-lifting-like-Lutz shots of the next-generation 2010 Opel Astra by head designer Marc van der Haegen and Laszlo Kreth, the engineering coordinator. As expected, that's not a Saturn.

We don't get to see much detail of the new Astra which will likely debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show this September.

Opel will be offering several body-style versions for the upcoming Astra, including a coupe-inspired 3-door hatch named the GTC, a 4-door sedan, a wagon, a coupe/convertible and, of course, the standard 5-door hatch.

The new Astra is based on the GM's Delta II architecture, the same as the Chevy Volt. But don't expect the Astra to come as a plug-in or standard hybrid, at least, not at first. Do expect to see a new 1.4-liter, turbocharged gasoline/petrol engine with various power outputs.

Opel will likely be reserving its 2.0-liter engine for an OPC version (or the Astra VRX for Vauxhall) to rival the Golf GTI and other hot hatches, with that engine currently available in a 240 HP turbo configuration.
[Opel via carscoop via WCF]

Fiat CEO in Berlin to Buy GM-Europe, Opel

Peter Orosz — Mon, 04 May 2009 08:30:00 EDT

Continuing his shopping spree after picking up a 20% stake in bankrupt Chrysler, Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is in talks with GM to acquire GM Europe and its subsidiary, Opel.

As we have posted earlier, Opel is in dire straits, needing $4 billion to survive the Carpocalypse. The German state has thus far avoided a bailout, offering instead state support for potential investors.

Here is where Fiat enters the fray. The Wall Street Journal’s Stacy Meichtry reports:

Fiat’s board of directors met Sunday and authorized Mr. Marchionne to seek a potential merger between Fiat and GM’s European operations, including Opel and its U.K. unit Vauxhall, according to a statement issued by Fiat on Sunday. If a deal is reached, Fiat will consider creating a new publicly traded company that combines the auto maker's car unit, Fiat Group Automobiles, with GM’s European operations, the statement said. The three-way alliance is expected to generate €80 billion ($105.84 billion) in revenue a year.
Fiat has been in talks with GM for months over the purchase of a majority stake in Opel, according to people familiar with the negotiations. Mr. Marchionne believes Fiat needs to sharply increase its current production of 2.2 million cars a year to gain economies of scale that could make Fiat viable in the future. Merging with Opel, in addition to Fiat’s alliance with Chrysler, would allow the Italian auto maker to reach Mr. Marchionne's goal of producing at least 5.5 million cars a year.

A deal with Opel isn't expected to alter the Chrysler partnership. Fiat sees the two deals as complementary—Chrysler forming the backbone of Fiat's reentry into the U.S. market, while a deal with Opel would make Fiat one the biggest auto makers in Europe.

Unlike with future Chrysler-Fiats, we won’t need Photoshop to imagine future Opel-Fiats. General Motors and Fiat were in a partnership between 2000 and 2005 and the fruits of their dissolved marriage include cars like the Alfa Romeo Brera. A coupé comically Italian on the surface, yet built on GM’s Premium platform and powered by GM’s High Feature engine.

Source: The Wall Street Journal, Photo Credit: DAMIEN MEYER/AFP/Getty Images

Opel Insignia SportTourer OPC: An Audi S4 Avant-Fighter

The Auto Insider — Fri, 01 May 2009 10:30:00 EDT

It's only a matter of time before the Europeans get to taunt us with the Opel Insignia OPC, but how long before they get the bad-ass 2010 Opel Insignia SportTourer OPC grocery hauler?

The European Car of the Year-winning Insignia officially got the OPC treatment earlier this month, but we're told a SportTourer version will soon follow. The Opel Insignia sedan already jockeys for position with Audi's S4 sedan, and the SportTourer OPC can expect similar competition from the Avant. Using the same 2.8-liter V6 turbo ECOTEC engine, the SportTourer OPC will pump at 325 HP and 295 lb-ft or torque, likely giving it a similar 0-to-60 MPH time of 5.8 seconds and 155 MPH top speed. What's that you say? We need milk? Okay, I suppose I'll go get some. Vrooom!

The chassis will also receive some performance tuning to go with its stiffer HiPerStrut suspension and 10mm lower ride height. The SportTourer OPC will also receive the Haldex IV all-wheel-drive system that debuted on the Saab 9-3 Turbo X last year along with an electronic limited slip differential (eLSD) in the rear with techy active torque vectoring to allow for a more stable and dynamic cornering profile.

Expect to see the same Brembo brake pacakge, with 320mm rotors on the front, and deep 19- or 20-inch forged alloy wheels wrapped in sandpaper like grippy rubber.

Around the same time as the Opel version, Vauxhall will also release their version; the 2010 Vauxhall Insignia SportTourer VXR. What about us in the States you ask? That's yet to be seen, but as we mentioned earlier in the month, China might receive a Regal GNX version pending how sales ride on the newly revealed 2.0 Turbo version. That doesn't exactly answer the question, but we have heard that GM is pondering whether or not to bring the Insignia over here as a Buick, but with the current financial situation being faced by the General, we won't believe anything until we see it. While we're asking questions — How about an Audi RS4 fighter, or is that asking waaaay too much? [illustration via KORSdesign]

Buick Regal GNX? It Could Be A Possiblity...In China

The Auto Insider — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 15:30:00 EDT

The recently announced 2010 Opel Insignia and Vauxhall VXR could spawn another variant we would love to own: the Buick Regal GNX.

With the Buick Regal proving to be a huge sales success here in China, and the Regal 2.0 Turbo planned for a reveal at the Shanghai Auto Show next week, the chances of a high-performance version being developed (or badge swapped) is entirely within the realm of possibility.

As strange as it may sound, Audi is Buick's biggest competitor here in the People's Republic of China and the A4 is the Regal's main foe. Audi also sells the high-performance S4 model here, which is also the Opel Insignia OPC and Vauxhall Insignia VXR's performance target. Why not slap a Buick waterfall grille and a GNX badge on this biatch and call it a day? We've seen stranger things happen.

2010 Opel Insignia OPC, Vauxhall VXR Gunning For Audi S4

The Auto Insider — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 08:00:00 EDT

GM's European divisions finally have an answer to that pesky AWD hot-rod Audi S4. Say hello to the new turbo, AWD, 325-HP 2010 Opel Insignia OPC and brother-from-another-mother, 2010 Vauxhall Insignia VXR. That's a Saturn?!

We're absolutely pleased to see this newest performance sedan from GM's European performance studios. Aiming, with no excuses, directly at the Audi S4, is a 2.8-liter V6 turbo ECOTEC engine. That engine's a derivative of the top-of-the-line Insignia model, producing a fairly stout 325 HP and 295 lb-ft of torque thanks to such features as a micro-alloy forged steel crank, die-cast alloy oil sump, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control. Enthusiasts will get to row through a six-speed manual gearbox helping the new performance Insignia reach 60 MPH in 5.8 seconds and with an electronically limited 155 MPH terminal velocity.

The Insignia OPC/VXR receives a performance-tuned chassis as well as a 10mm lower and stiffer suspension featuring new HiPerStruts, all-wheel-drive and a new electronic limited slip differential (eLSD). Helping to stop the new sport sedan is a set of color-matched Brembo calipers and vented/cross-drilled discs that sit behind a bespoke set of 19- or 20-inch lightweight, forged alloy wheels wrapped in sport rubbers...you know, to be safe.

Vauxhall's Marketing Director, Andy Gilson, had this to say about the Vauxhall Insignia VXR (same goes for the Opel):

'The Vauxhall Insignia VXR is not just about absolute power, but a combination of usable performance and chassis sophistication which is the match of premium rivals, such as the new Audi S4. In essence, it's an ultra-fast performance saloon that will appeal to buyers who appreciate subtle yet distinctive styling, but who need to know that there's real substance below the car's metal.'

Those of you lucky enough to live on the other side of the pond, will be able to check out the new 2010 Opel Insignia OPC and 2010 Vauxhall Insignia VXR on May 7th at the 2009 Barcelona Motor Show, which coincidentally is the ten year anniversary of the first OPC model.

GM Press Release:
The high performance version of the Opel Insignia, Car of the Year 2009, will be unveiled on May 7, when the Opel Insignia OPC premieres at the 2009 Barcelona Motor Show, ten years after the launch of the first OPC model (Opel Performance Center).

The heart of the Opel Insignia OPC is its 2.8 V6 Turbo engine. Derived from the powerful gasoline engine already available on the top-of-the-line Insignia, this version reaches an output of 239 kW/325 hp. The increase in power was obtained by a special engine development and by reworking the exhaust, significantly reducing the counter pressure. And because sound is so important in the appreciation of an engine, the acoustic specialists worked on the exhaust of the V6 by adopting specific center and rear mufflers.

The Opel Insignia OPC is available with a six-speed manual gearbox. The strong torque of 400 Nm ensures abundant pulling power even at lower engine speeds. With this engine performance, the Opel Insignia OPC reaches a top speed of 250 km/h (restricted) and sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in six seconds.

The already very well performing Insignia chassis was further fine tuned for the OPC variant which ride height has been reduced by 10 mm compared to the Insignia (AWD Sport version). The newly developed mechatronic chassis also receives a new front axle. The front suspension architecture of the Opel Insignia OPC retains a so called McPherson strut, however the engineers at the Opel Performance Center came up with an evolution called HiPerStrut (for high performance strut). Benefits are an improved steering feel, reduced steering disturbances due to the high torque and an enhanced feeling in the handling for the driver.

The Opel Insignia OPC also comes with the adaptive FlexRide suspension which not only adapts to driving situation and driving style but also to the driver's preferences. While on the Insignia the system offers the choice between a standard adaptive setting, a more comfortable mode and a sport mode, the OPC is definitely addressing those enjoying a sportier ride. OPC drivers can choose between three different sport modes: the standard mode as the high comfort setting, a special Sport mode and the OPC mode, for optimal performance.

For the first time also in the OPC portfolio, the Adaptive 4x4 system and its electronic rear limited slip differential (eLSD) are standard. The four-wheel drive management unit has been recalibrated to adapt torque distribution to the sporty philosophy of the OPC. Taking the higher performances of the OPC into consideration, significant development efforts were put into further improving the brake system. Connoisseurs will immediately spot the Brembo calipers and the perforated 355 mm disc on the front axle.

"I was personally involved in the development of the Opel Insignia OPC and I very much enjoyed extensive testing on the most demanding race track of the world, the Nürburgring Nordschleife. Our target was to rival the "best of the best"," said Hans Demant, Managing Director Adam Opel GmbH.

Distinctive looks are a clear statement on dynamic ambitions

The top-of-the-line body style dressed in an elegant sports outfit is inspired by the GTC concept car which starred in 2007, but still remains true to the Insignia's design philosophy of sculptural artistry meets German precision.

Compared to less powerful versions of the Insignia, the OPC shows a spectacular new front end with two large vertical intakes and a specific rear bumper with dual integrated exhausts. The 19-inch wheels (tires: 245/40) are standard and give the car the stance it deserves. New 20-inch lightweight forged wheels (with 255/35 tires) are available as an option.

The dynamic sportiness of the exterior is also mirrored in the cockpit. When opening the door, the OPC is immediately impressive, from unique Recaro seats to a flat-bottomed sporty steering wheel and specific gear knob. The OPC also presents distinctive instrument graphics.

"The Opel Insignia OPC marks the beginning of a new era for our OPC portfolio; still bold, but also more mature and refined, and more ambitious than ever. The OPC epitomizes the Insignia experience: dynamic and refined", says Alain Visser, GM Europe Vice President Opel.

Vauxhall Insignia VXR:
Packing 325 horsepower, a sophisticated four-wheel-drive chassis and a sub-six second 0-60 time, Vauxhall Insignia VXR is set to take the mid-size performance saloon market by storm when it goes on sale early this summer, with a level of dynamic prowess which aims to raise the bar in its class.

Based on the successful 2009 European Car of the Year, and available in hatch, saloon and Sports Tourer body styles, the high-performance Insignia will be Vauxhall's first VXR model to adopt 4X4 technology, using a bespoke chassis developed through an extensive test programme at the gruelling Nurburgring circuit in Germany.

Highlights are a 'HiPerStrut' (High Performance Strut) front suspension system, Adaptive 4X4 with electronic Limited Slip Differential (eLSD) and a 10 millimetre reduction in ride height over the Insignia SRi.

The HiPerStrut system is unique to the VXR and serves two primary functions: firstly, to reduce torque-steer, but also to maintain negative camber during cornering, thereby improving ultimate grip levels in wet or dry conditions.

Complementing these features are standard 19-inch alloy wheels (20-inch lightweight forged alloys are a cost option) with bespoke tyres, revised bushing and damper settings on both axles, and Brembo brakes with colour-keyed callipers and vented/cross-drilled discs.

'The Vauxhall Insignia VXR is not just about absolute power, but a combination of usable performance and chassis sophistication which is the match of premium rivals, such as the new Audi S4,' said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall's Marketing Director. ' In essence, it's an ultra-fast performance saloon that will appeal to buyers who appreciate subtle yet distinctive styling, but who need to know that there's real substance below the car's metal.'

And substance the VXR has a-plenty. At the heart of the Vauxhall Insignia VXR is a advanced 2.8-litre V6 Turbo ECOTEC engine, with its micro-alloy forged steel crank, classic 60-degree cylinder angle and die-cast alloy oil sump - all features found in many a race engine. Producing 325PS (65PS up on the Elite V6), the engine uses a single, twin-scroll turbocharger and variable valve control for quick throttle response, and accelerates from 0-60mph in 5.8 seconds, achieving an electronically limited top speed of 155mph.

With a design inspired by the Vauxhall/Opel GTC, many of the Insignia VXR's styling cues will be familiar to those who saw this groundbreaking concept at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show. A deeper bumper, incorporating bold, twin mesh grilles either side of the main grille, dominates the front of the car, and at the rear, hatch and saloon models gain a rear spoiler, while all VXRs have a bespoke bumper moulding incorporating dual matt chrome exhausts.

This sporting theme continues in the Vauxhall Insignia VXR's cabin. Recaro front seats, a new VXR steering wheel, VXR gearknob and unique mouldings are standard on all cars, along with different instrument graphics, VXR sill plates and a black headlining.

All VXRs are available with a colour palette comprising Arden Blue, Power Red, Carbon Flash Black, Silver Lake, Olympic White and Technical Grey.

Sitting at the top of the Insignia range, the new model will be an important addition to Vauxhall's performance-bred VXR family, which already includes the Corsa VXR, Astra VXR and 431 horsepower VXR8.

Since its launch in 2004, the VXR brand has been underpinned by the immensely successful VX Racing team, which currently holds all three British Touring Car Championship titles - Drivers', Manufacturers' and Team - for the 2008 season.

[via GM]

2010 Opel Ampera Spied

The Auto Insider — Fri, 20 Feb 2009 09:45:00 EST

Our friends over at World Car Fans managed to snag shots of the Opel Ampera Concept completely naked during a photo shoot prior to its official debut at the 2009 Geneva Motor Show.

We managed to get you some revealing European patent filing images earlier this week, but the always sly guys at World Car Fans did one better and got images of the actual Opel Ampera out in the open during a photo shoot for its European reveal next month. Follow the link below to see the images of the European Chevy Volt.

2010 Opel Ampera Spied Completely Uncovered!

[via world car fans]

Opel Ampera Concept Revealed In Patent Filings

The Auto Insider — Wed, 18 Feb 2009 12:30:00 EST

We saw an ultra-dark teaser of the Volt-based Opel Ampera and now, thanks to the leaky European Union Patent Office, we get the full picture of this very Voltastic electric Opel.

GM had hoped to keep the little plug-in electric under wraps until its official debut in March at the Geneva Motor Show, but thanks to these European patent images we can show you that the Opel Ampera is nothing more than a rebadged Chevy Volt. The Ampera does receive new front and rear fascias and a new set of alloys all inspired by the 2007 Opel Flextreme Concept, but that's about it as far as differentiation.

The Opel Ampera is on track to launch in Europe roughly one year after the Volt goes on sale in the U.S. in late 2010. There will likely be a Vauxhall variant as well, but changes for that model will only include a badge swap and nothing more. The European Opel Ampera will carry the same Voltec Electric Propulsion System as the Chevy Volt and will provide 40 miles of driving when powered by its 230v charged lithium-ion batteries or, for longer drives, it will continue use juice generated by the small internal combustion engine.

[via carscoop]

Jalopnik's Top 28 Vintage GM Car Commercials

Murilee Martin — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 11:00:00 EST

We've shown our favorite Vintage Chevrolet commercials, but what about GM's other car divisions? And we don't just mean Cadillac, Buick, Pontiac, and Oldsmobile; Vauxhall, Holden, and Opel did some great ads as well!

If these get you in a Classic Ad Watch sort of mood, you might enjoy checking out our favorite Super Bowl Car Ads, then keep going with our Top 20 Vintage Datsun ads, Top 20 Vintage Toyota ads, and Top 20 Vintage Chrysler ads. If that's still not enough, you can go to the Top Car Commercials Of The 1960s, 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. And now, our favorite (non-Chevrolet) vintage General Motors ads from North America, Europe, Australia, and South Africa:

1962 Oldsmobile Jetfire Turbo	1942 Oldsmobile B-44	1991 Oldsmobile Silhouette	1988 Pontiac Grand Am
1956 Oldsmobile 88	1973 Pontiac Grand Am	1968 Pontiac GTO	1970 Pontiac T37
1982 Pontiac 6000	1981 Vauxhall Cavalier	1969 Pontiacs	1985 Pontiac Fiero GT
1990 Geo Tracker	1979 Holdens	1973 Opels	1972 Holden Kingswood
1985 Pontiac Fiero	1971 Oldsmobile Delta 88	1985 Vauxhall Nova	1992 Opels (South Africa)
1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera	1970 Pontiac Firebird	1968 Opel GT	1982 Holden Station Wagons
2001 Pontiac Aztek	1986 Holden Astra	1960 Opel Kapitän	1974 Cadillacs

Opel Insignia OPC: Full Frontal Shot Slips Out From EVO Mag

The Auto Insider — Wed, 28 Jan 2009 16:00:00 EST

Well, hell's bells. Look what happens when you let an image slip out of the bag. Thanks to EVO and Autoblog.it, you're looking at the upcoming 2010 Opel Insignia OPC in all its naked glory.

It's still an unsure thing, but the Opel Insignia could still land on our shores as the next-gen Saturn Aura and if that's true then here's the first look at what the Redline variant could look like. We've already shown you shots of the 2010 Opel Insignia OPC running around the Nürburgring like the mad hatter, but this is the first time that we've seen the car without it's bra on and like our first time, we are delightfully surprised. The front bumper design appears to have taken a lot of cues from the Opel GTC Concept from 2007 and integrates them nicely with the Insignia headlamps.

The 2010 Opel Insignia OPC is suspected to by powered by a twin-turbo version of the 2.8 liter V6 that can be found lurking under the hood of the standard Opel Insignia, but with the added boost upping output to at least 300 horsepower. It's likely that the OPC will be badged the Vauxhall Insignia VXR in Britain and (if Saturn's still around) the Saturn Auro Redline here in the States. We'll get our first full glimpse of the production 2010 Opel Insignia OPC at the Geneva Motor Show in March.

[via autoblog.it]