Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com Autoblog Canada http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/www.autoblog.com/media/favicon-v5.png Autoblog Canada http://ca.autoblog.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/ Chris Shunk, Sam Abuelsamid and Dan RothThe podcast by the people who obsessively cover the auto industry. <![CDATA[Rally for youth with footage of the Opel Adam Rallye Cup Car]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/rally-for-youth-with-footage-of-the-opel-adam-rallye-cup-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/rally-for-youth-with-footage-of-the-opel-adam-rallye-cup-car/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/04/09/rally-for-youth-with-footage-of-the-opel-adam-rallye-cup-car/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



We checked out the Opel Adam R2 Rally concept and its 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque at the Geneva Motor Show. The one-make series the car was built for, the ADAC Opel Ralleye Cup, has kicked off with 24 teams in identically prepared cars lining up for eight races in this inaugural season.

Meant to help young drivers find a less expensive way into motorsports, the championship is part of the German ADAC Rally Masters series and will actually run 140-hp cars. We're not sure how much the Opel prepped by Holzer Motorsport for this series costs, but English company M-sport prepares an R2-spec Ford Fiesta with 170 hp for 43,000 pounds (about CAD$66,950). There's 100,000 euros in prize money up for grabs and the cup winner gets career help, a shot at the Adam R2 car in 2014 and a chance to hop into rally-prepped Opel Corsas.

The first video below has shots of the Adam Rallye Cup car on the move. For more footage and a closer look at the car, the second video has more rolling footage and an interview - in Danish with no subtitles, sadly - with the Danish rally team of 22-year-old Simon Lund Larsen and co-driver Ole R. Frederiksen.


Gallery: Opel Adam R2 Rally Car

Continue reading Rally for youth with footage of the Opel Adam Rallye Cup Car

Rally for youth with footage of the Opel Adam Rallye Cup Car originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> adacopelopel adamopel adam r2 rally carrallyvideovideosyoutube Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:58:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20535281/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/04/09/rally-for-youth-with-footage-of-the-opel-adam-rallye-cup-car/20535281/article-detail.xml 20535281 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/opel-adam-rallye-video_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/04/opel-adam-rallye-video.jpg <![CDATA[Geneva shows us a little bruiser of a Rally Racer, the Opel Adam R2 (w/video)]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/Geneva-opel-adam-r2-rally-car-geneva-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/Geneva-opel-adam-r2-rally-car-geneva-2013/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/03/07/Geneva-opel-adam-r2-rally-car-geneva-2013/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Opel Adam R2 Rally Car

If there's anything more entertaining than watching a B-segment car bash its way through the woods, we don't want to know about it. Good for us, then, that Opel revealed a competition version of its Adam at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show.

The Adam R2 Rally Concept is designed to conform to FIA R2 regulations and boasts a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine with 185 horsepower and 140 pound-feet of torque. While technically a concept, Opel says it will work to homologate the hatch. Once done, buyers will be able to compete in any number of international rally events.

So far, Opel has built 40 of the machines for competition in France in Germany, and the whole lot has been sold already. There's no word on how much the production models will cost buyers when they bow, but you can check out the full Opel press release and watch a video below.

Continue reading Geneva shows us a little bruiser of a Rally Racer, the Opel Adam R2 (w/video)

Geneva shows us a little bruiser of a Rally Racer, the Opel Adam R2 (w/video) originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 07 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> genevageneva 2013geneva motor showopel adamopel adam r2 rally carr2r2 rally carrally car Thu, 07 Mar 2013 10:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20492577/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/03/07/Geneva-opel-adam-r2-rally-car-geneva-2013/20492577/article-detail.xml 20492577 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/opel-adam-r2-rally-geneva_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/03/opel-adam-r2-rally-geneva.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Adam looking to get dirty with friends]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/opel-adam-looking-to-get-dirty-with-friends/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/opel-adam-looking-to-get-dirty-with-friends/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2013/02/07/opel-adam-looking-to-get-dirty-with-friends/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

Opel Adam Rally Car - jumping in the snow

If there's a single phrase in the automotive lexicon that makes us want to remove our ear canals with a pick axe, it's "lifestyle car." Opel has taken the unfortunate step of dropping the company's Adam into that phylum, which is a shame since the little runabout looks downright dashing in rally guise. Opel has just announced the company will show off its new FIA R2-spec Adam at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show next month. Expect to see the little competitor go through homologation and final development early this year, with privateer teams able to purchase their own shortly thereafter.

With a 1.6-litre four-cylinder engine that provides 185 horsepower and 140 pound feet of torque in rally spec, the Adam should be reasonably quick. A five-speed sequential transmission and limited slip differential put that muscle down, and four-piston Brembo front brakes help bring the party to a stop. The driver also gets the luxury of a hydraulic handbrake and the cabin is fitted with Sparco competition seats, an LCD gear indicator and a MONIT trip computer.

Check out the full press release and videos below for more information.

Continue reading Opel Adam looking to get dirty with friends

Opel Adam looking to get dirty with friends originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 07 Feb 2013 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 geneva motor showadamadam rally cargenevageneva 2013geneva motor showopelopel adam rally carrally car Thu, 07 Feb 2013 08:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20450848/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2013/02/07/opel-adam-looking-to-get-dirty-with-friends/20450848/article-detail.xml 20450848 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/opel-adam-rally-car-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2013/02/opel-adam-rally-car-628.jpg <![CDATA[Opel to close German plant in 2016, fears continued Euro slump]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/15/opel-to-close-german-plant-in-2016-fears-continued-euro-slump/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/15/opel-to-close-german-plant-in-2016-fears-continued-euro-slump/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/12/15/opel-to-close-german-plant-in-2016-fears-continued-euro-slump/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The European financial crisis has claimed another victim, as Opel has stated that it is going to close its Bochum, Germany facility. The closure is set to occur in 2016, when the current Opel Zafira minivan ends its production run. According to Automotive News Europe, parent company General Motors is looking to minimize the impact to the 3,300-strong workforce by adapting the plant to focus on component and distribution efforts.

According to the report, GM believes the economy in Europe will not recover until 2014, and that this move was unavoidable. GM expects losses of between US$1.5 billion to US$1.8 billion from its Opel and Vauxhall brands in Europe. To try and stem the hemorrhaging, Opel is forced to lay off 2,600 employees, resulting in a US$300 million spending cut. Another US$500 million in cost cutting is excepted between from to 2013, through 2015 as part of a plan called Drive Opel 2022. The decade-long plan is rooted in cost-cutting, reorganization, and re-focusing products and marketing. As part of this plan, Opel will launch 23 new models between now and 2016.

Still, the plant closure comes as a blow to many Opel employees, and the labour union has hopes to save the Bochum facility. Unions, as well as the German Government, expect General Motors to compensate those who lose their jobs in this closure with appropriate severance packages. GM Europe stated that it is trying to move component production to the Ruhr Valley region, where the Bochum factory is located. It will be able to save some jobs through this effort, though certainly not all 3,300.

Continue reading Opel to close German plant in 2016, fears continued Euro slump

Opel to close German plant in 2016, fears continued Euro slump originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 15 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> general motorsgermanygmgm europeopelopel zafiravauxhallzafira Sat, 15 Dec 2012 18:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20399061/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/12/15/opel-to-close-german-plant-in-2016-fears-continued-euro-slump/20399061/article-detail.xml 20399061 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/opel-bachum-germany-plant-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/12/opel-bachum-germany-plant-628.jpg <![CDATA[Opel plans return to motorsport]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/opel-plans-return-to-motorsport/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/opel-plans-return-to-motorsport/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/11/25/opel-plans-return-to-motorsport/#comments Filed under: , , , ,



With a financial crisis ravaging the European automotive industry, many automakers have tightened budgets, and motorsports programs have, in many cases, been among the first things to go. That's the case at Ford and Mini, but it's the opposite at Opel, which announced its return to motorsports in the form of spec series for two very fun-looking hatchbacks.

The first racer is the Opel Adam Cup, which will participate in the ADAC Rally Masters competition for the Opel Rally Cup Trophy. The series will closely match FIA R2 specifications, and will offer special coaching for younger drivers that place well in the "junior rally" system. There will also be cash prizes.

If hosing the dirt off your car after every race isn't your thing, there's the Astra OPC Cup. Featuring Opel Astra OPC, the highlight of the season will be a 24-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring. As with the Adam Cup, there will be cash prizes.

There's plenty of history here. Opel's rally exploits included a European Championship title in 1974, and again in 1979. This success was followed by campaigns in DTM in the 1990's, culminating in a constructor championship in 1998. Opel also found overall victory in the 24-hour endurance race at the Nürburgring in 2003. To read up more on Opel's and its new racecars, check out the press release below.

News Source: Opel via German Car Scene

Continue reading Opel plans return to motorsport

Opel plans return to motorsport originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 25 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> adam cupastraopelopel adamopel adam cupopel astrarally racing Sun, 25 Nov 2012 12:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20387724/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/11/25/opel-plans-return-to-motorsport/20387724/article-detail.xml 20387724 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/opel-racing_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/11/opel-racing.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Cascada is Europe's Buick convertible [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/opel-cascada-is-europes-buick-regal-convertible-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/opel-cascada-is-europes-buick-regal-convertible-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/17/opel-cascada-is-europes-buick-regal-convertible-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , ,



As we reported earlier, there has been much speculation regarding a Buick convertible of sorts. The most ringing endorsement of this conjecture comes today from General Motors Europe, as the new Opel Cascada has debuted on the interwebs. Opel calls the four-passenger Cascada an "athletic, glamorous midsize convertible." With a length of 4,697mm (185 in.), the Cascada is as long as an Audi A5, to which GM has said it would be slightly larger.

The Cascada, which is Spanish for waterfall, features a cloth convertible top that retracts in 17 seconds and at speeds up to 50 km/h (31 mph). The Cascada features a 1.4-litre turbo gas engine, 2.0-litre turbodiesel with 165 horsepower and a range-topping 1.6-litre turbocharged Ecotec engine that puts out 170 horsepower and 280 Nm (207 lb-ft). Power is sent through either a six-speed manual or six-speed automatic transmission.

According to GM, the Cascada will also come rife with luxury and tech features. In addition to adaptive forward lighting and ergonomic heated front seats, the convertible will feature Opel Eye, which is a front camera that can recognize traffic signs and incorporates lane departure warning and forward collision alert.

Given GM's propensity for re-badging Opels as Buicks, it's not far out of the realm of possibility that we could see this vehicle Stateside wearing a Buick badge. Though we've heard that the Cascada is loosely based on the Insignia sedan, which we know in North America as the Regal, the platform on which it rides is shared by the Verano, so what it would be called in North America is anyone's guess.

Click for press release.


News Source: General Motors

Continue reading Opel Cascada is Europe's Buick convertible [w/video]

Opel Cascada is Europe's Buick convertible [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 17 Oct 2012 18:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 opel cascadabuickcascadaconvertibledelta IIopelverano Wed, 17 Oct 2012 18:28:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20353168/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/17/opel-cascada-is-europes-buick-regal-convertible-w-video/20353168/article-detail.xml 20353168 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/02-opel-cascadia-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/02-opel-cascadia-opt.jpg <![CDATA[GM says it will not sell Opel, Fiat still ready to buy]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/gm-says-it-will-not-sell-opel-fiat-still-ready-to-buy/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/gm-says-it-will-not-sell-opel-fiat-still-ready-to-buy/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/10/05/gm-says-it-will-not-sell-opel-fiat-still-ready-to-buy/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

General MotorsAutomotive News reports General Motors has no interest in selling Opel. The statement comes after an Italian newspaper implied Fiat was ready to buy the brand should the alliance between GM and PSA/Peugeot Citroen fail. The publication reported that Fiat CEO Sergio Marchionne is already crafting a proposal to acquire the German brand in the event GM calls it quits, using a strategy similar to the one that saw Fiat win Chrysler.

Fiat has declined to comment on the situation, but GM Vice Chairman Stephen Grisky said in a statement that GM stands behind Opel and that the brand is "a fully integrated part of GM's global footprint."

Grisky also said the GM-PSA alliance is still strong.

This isn't the first time rumors have swirled around Fiat's lust for Opel. The Italian brand attempted to buy Opel once before in 2009 when GM was briefly in bankruptcy. The American manufacturer eventually settled on keeping Opel, however. Meanwhile, Marchionne has said the European auto industry will have to consolidate if it is to survive the region's economic downturn.

Click here for a video report on Opel in Europe.

News Source: Automotive News - sub. req.

Continue reading GM says it will not sell Opel, Fiat still ready to buy

GM says it will not sell Opel, Fiat still ready to buy originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Fri, 05 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> fiatgeneral motorsgmopelsergio marchionne Fri, 05 Oct 2012 16:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20343107/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/10/05/gm-says-it-will-not-sell-opel-fiat-still-ready-to-buy/20343107/article-detail.xml 20343107 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/gm-250-1349447036_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/10/gm-250-1349447036.jpg <![CDATA[GM designer Lyon bails just days before taking over Opel/Vauxhall]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/gm-designer-lyon-bails-just-days-before-taking-over-opel-vauxhal/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/gm-designer-lyon-bails-just-days-before-taking-over-opel-vauxhal/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/30/gm-designer-lyon-bails-just-days-before-taking-over-opel-vauxhal/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

Dave Lyon with the 2013 GMC Acadia

Dave Lyon won't be taking over as head of design for Opel and Vauxhall after all. The Detroit Free Press reports the designer abruptly left General Motors last week for unknown reasons, just days before he was supposed to step into his new role. The defection is the latest in a string of management upsets at the two marques. Earlier this month, Opel CEO Karl-Friedrich Stracke departed to assume other duties within GM, opening the door for Steve Girsky to step into the role for the time being.

Lyon joined GM in 1990 and worked as the executive director of GM Asia Pacific design before transitioning to his post as head of North American interior design. He was instrumental in penning the cabin of the 2013 Cadillac XTS and the Chevrolet Volt. He also helped steer Buick toward greater design consistency with Opel. The new position would have made him vice president of design for GM Europe.

News Source: The Detroit Free Press

GM designer Lyon bails just days before taking over Opel/Vauxhall originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 30 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> auto designcar designerdave lyondesigngeneral motorsgmgm designopelvauxhall Mon, 30 Jul 2012 11:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20288997/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/30/gm-designer-lyon-bails-just-days-before-taking-over-opel-vauxhal/20288997/article-detail.xml 20288997 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/dave-lyon-628_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/dave-lyon-628.jpg <![CDATA[Cadillac XTS to become Opel flagship sedan?]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



According to Auto-News.de, Opel is considering using Cadillac's all-new big sedan, the XTS, as the base for its new flagship car, which would likely carry the name Omega.

WorldCarFans.com speculates that Opel could use GM's 3.6-litre direct-injection V6 that generates 304 horsepower or, possibly, a 2.8-litre turbocharged six-cylinder engine that creates 321 horsepower to power the vehicle. The European automaker could even use a 195-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder engine in this application - fine, since many of Europe's largest sedans are powered by smaller, more efficient engines.

Regardless of power, the Omega could arrive at dealerships by the end of 2013.

News Source: Auto-News.de via WorldCarFans.com

Image Credit: Copyright 2012 Michael Harley / AOL

Cadillac XTS to become Opel flagship sedan? originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 24 Jul 2012 14:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> cadillaccadillac xtseuropeflagshipgeneral motorsgmluxuryluxury sedanopelopel omegasedan Tue, 24 Jul 2012 14:31:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20285147/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/24/cadillac-xts-to-become-opel-flagship-sedan/20285147/article-detail.xml 20285147 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-cadillac-xts-fd_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/01-2013-cadillac-xts-fd.jpg <![CDATA[Opel/Vauxhall Adam zooms into Europe's supermini fray [w/video]]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/opel-vauxhall-adam-zooms-into-europes-supermini-fray-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/opel-vauxhall-adam-zooms-into-europes-supermini-fray-w-video/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/12/opel-vauxhall-adam-zooms-into-europes-supermini-fray-w-video/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,

Opel Adam - red three-quarter view

We've done a triple-take with the Opel/Vauxhall Adam, and after two rounds of grainy spy shots, we can finally see the car in crisp, clear focus. From the looks of these videos, we like it a bit more than we thought we did initially. Yes, it's got plenty of Audi A1 going on in that greenhouse. Yes, there's a lot going on with sculpting outside and inside. Yes, customers might want to be very careful about how they choose their colors among the more than one million color and trim options - yes, your read that corectly: more than one million. But we'll say again, we like it (though in fairness the front end is likely to divide opinions).

The Adam is a challenger to other premium subcompact hatches like the Mini Cooper and the Fiat 500, and size-wise it's slightly shorter and wider than the Mini and has a slightly shorter wheelbase. To counter the fact that it has taken so long for General Motors to make it happen, the UK price of around £11,000 (CAD$13,700 including Value Added Tax) won't skimp on features: stop/start, ESP, Hill Start Assist, airbags all around and a city steering mode with additional power assistance.

To counter the increasing obsolescence of traditional infotainment and nav systems, the Adam's optional unit will feature a seven-inch screen that plugs into the owner's smartphone and replicates the interface. The owner then has control of his phone via the touchscreen. This mirroring process is becoming more common, but we'll wait for more adoption to see how well it works in places where there's no cell signal and no backup maps on an in-car hard drive.

The four-cylinder gasoline engines available at launch will be taken from the Corsa lineup and paired with a five-speed manual: a 1.2-litre with 69 horsepower and two 1.4-litres, one with 86 hp and one with 99 hp. It will be a year before we see the three-cylinder engines co-developed with SAIC.

And yes, Jam, Glam and Slam will be the trim names. We aren't sure which ones are pictured, but since the trim doesn't appear to be written anywhere on the car, no one has to know. We'll get a better look at it in a few months at the Paris Motor Show, and then on European streets beginning next January. Right now, though, we'd advise you scroll down to watch a couple of Adam videos and check out the official press release.

News Source: General Motors

Continue reading Opel/Vauxhall Adam zooms into Europe's supermini fray [w/video]

Opel/Vauxhall Adam zooms into Europe's supermini fray [w/video] originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 12 Jul 2012 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2013 opel adam2013 vauxhaull adamadammirroringopelparisparis 2012paris motor showvauxhallvideo Thu, 12 Jul 2012 14:15:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20277013/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/12/opel-vauxhall-adam-zooms-into-europes-supermini-fray-w-video/20277013/article-detail.xml 20277013 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/279646-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/279646-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/#comments Filed under: , ,

Opel Adam Spy Photos

Two weeks ago we brought you some of the worst spy shots ever, revealing the forthcoming Opel Adam minicar. Today we've got more. These are remarkably better - yet still low res - shots of Opel's long-gestating competitor to the Volkswagen Up!

But hey, they're better than nothing, and at least we've finally got an undisguised look at exactly what Europeans will be getting from the German GM subsidiary when the Adam is revealed at the Paris Motor Show in the fall. We like the overall proportions, the wheels and the contrasting roof. While the front fascia isn't nearly as cute as the Fiat 500, at least it's not scowling. The one thing that rubs us the wrong way, however, is how off the front overhang looks, like it belongs on a larger car.

Of course, the caveat here is that these are hardly beauty shots so we'll not prematurely judge the Adam before we see it out in the real world. Check out all the images in our gallery.

Continue reading Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo

Opel Adam hatch caught sans camo originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 09 Jul 2012 18:29:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> adamcity carsgmminicaropelspy photosspy shots Mon, 09 Jul 2012 18:29:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20274632/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/09/opel-adam-hatch-caught-sans-camo/20274632/article-detail.xml 20274632 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/opel-adam-spy-photos-01-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/07/opel-adam-spy-photos-01-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Opel board approves new turnaround plan]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/01/opel-board-approves-new-turnaround-plan/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/01/opel-board-approves-new-turnaround-plan/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/07/01/opel-board-approves-new-turnaround-plan/#comments Filed under: ,

Opel

Opel's supervisory board has approved changes in the company it hopes revitalizes the brand.

The most important element are "massive" investments in new products over a four year period. The division also plans to increase exports and cut materials and development costs. The Opel board said it expects to also see savings from GM's partnership with Peugeot-Citroen.

The board's press release was short on details about how the plan would work or how it would be implemented.

Stephen Girsky, Vice-Chairman, General Motors and Chairman, Opel Supervisory Board, said in the statement, "The plan we approved today paves the way for Opel's strong future. GM stands behind Opel, and encourages both its management and employee representatives to continue working together to better satisfy customers and return quickly to profitability."

Read the full press release after the break.

Continue reading Opel board approves new turnaround plan

Opel board approves new turnaround plan originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sun, 01 Jul 2012 12:03:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> FinanceOpelPSA Peugeot CitroënRüsselsheim Sun, 01 Jul 2012 12:03:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20269931/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/07/01/opel-board-approves-new-turnaround-plan/20269931/article-detail.xml 20269931 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/opel-badge-opt-1340897481_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/opel-badge-opt-1340897481.jpg <![CDATA[Opel Adam caught undisguised at a photo shoot]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/30/opel-adam-caught-undisguised-at-a-photo-shoot/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/30/opel-adam-caught-undisguised-at-a-photo-shoot/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/30/opel-adam-caught-undisguised-at-a-photo-shoot/#comments Filed under: ,

Opel Adam

The new and not-yet-revealed Opel Adam was taken to a Spanish technology park for a photo shoot, and there it was caught by an unofficial photo crew sent by our sister site Autoblog Spain. It was described as looking like a cross between an Opel Corsa and an Audi A1 in the metal. There appears to be some French inspiration as well, especially the front end. Unless the light deceives, in-house cribbing comes in the Insignia-like swage line along the door, and we do hope that those wheels are offered on the production version.

A reminder, the Adam is six inches longer than the Volkswagen Up! but still shorter than the Opel Agila. We'd read that the electric version of the hatch had been canceled, but according to Italian site CarPasion.it, the EV will be one of three trim lines: the electric Adam Jam, more elegant Adam Glam and the sporty Adam Slam. Eventually it will have three-cylinder engines co-developed with SAIC underhood, but there could be powerplants from the Corsa line offered at launch.

The Adam should be in showrooms next spring for less than €10,000 (CAD$13,200). Before that, we'll see it unveiled at the Paris Motor Show.

News Source: Autoblog Spanish via CarPassion.it

Opel Adam caught undisguised at a photo shoot originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Sat, 30 Jun 2012 16:04:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> adamopelopel adamparisparis 2012paris auto salonparis motor showspy photosspy shots Sat, 30 Jun 2012 16:04:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20269779/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/30/opel-adam-caught-undisguised-at-a-photo-shoot/20269779/article-detail.xml 20269779 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/opeladamcaught_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/opeladamcaught.jpg <![CDATA[Buick Verano goes to Europe, changes name to Opel Astra]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/buick-verano-goes-to-europe-changes-name-to-opel-astra/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/buick-verano-goes-to-europe-changes-name-to-opel-astra/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/06/11/buick-verano-goes-to-europe-changes-name-to-opel-astra/#comments Filed under: , , , ,

2012 Opel Astra sedan - shallow rear three-quarter view

The Opel Astra notchback sedan has completed its round-the-world trip. General Motors has based its latest compact on the Delta II platform. Designed by its studios in the U.S. and Asia, it was first sold as the Chinese-market Buick Excelle GT and then in North America as the Buick Verano. Now it joins the Astra five-door hatch, Astra wagon and three-door Astra GTC as the fourth member of the lineup, going on sale later this month in European markets.

Ultimately the compact sedan will get twice as many engine choices as it has doors: seven powerplants will be available at launch. Four gas engines range from 100 to 180 horspower, while three diesels swing from 95 to 130 hp and include two ecoFLEX motors with Start/Stop technology. Early 2013 will see another gas option added, the 1.6-litre turbochared, direct-injected SIDI Ecotec.

Even though it goes on sale this month, it will be 'officially' debuted during Russia's Moscow Auto Show at the end of August. You'll find a press release by scrolling down, and a few high-res photos above. Now we'll wait to see if the transfer goes the other direction, with Buick getting its own version of the Astra GTC.

Continue reading Buick Verano goes to Europe, changes name to Opel Astra

Buick Verano goes to Europe, changes name to Opel Astra originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 11 Jun 2012 13:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> astrabuickbuick veranoexcellegeneral motorsgmopelopel astraverano Mon, 11 Jun 2012 13:45:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20255799/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/06/11/buick-verano-goes-to-europe-changes-name-to-opel-astra/20255799/article-detail.xml 20255799 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/opelastranotchback_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/06/opelastranotchback.jpg <![CDATA[Union takes hard stance against German automakers]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/union-takes-hard-stance-against-german-automakers/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/union-takes-hard-stance-against-german-automakers/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/05/22/union-takes-hard-stance-against-german-automakers/#comments Filed under: , , , , , , ,



Anyone considering a German-built car might want to buy it now. It could be a long summer.

Europe's largest industrial union, IG Metall, is taking a tough stance against some job rules German carmakers want to enforce, potentially creating the possibility of a strike, according to TheDetroitBureau.com.

"Talks are resuming, but so far five rounds of negotiations have produced little movement and a round of warning strikes earlier this month at several companies, including Porsche, BMW and Daimler, suggest that the powerful union is gearing up for a confrontation," the Bureau reported earlier this week.

The union wants a 6.5-per cent pay raise for its workers and a limit in how many temporary workers the carmakers can use. Around the world, carmakers use temporary workers as way to increase production without increasing union membership and save money.

The union was offered a 3-per cent pay raise, but that offer was rejected. Currently, German auto workers are some of the highest paid in the automotive world. And while parts of Europe remain in economic turmoil, Germany has shown signs of slow growth, which might be one reason some government officials are backing IG Metall.

All of this doesn't bode well for General Motors' German-based Opel. GM was hoping to get some concessions from the unions representing its workers as part of its restructuring. But if other carmakers are paying more for its workers, it's unlikely the troubled Opel would be able to squeeze much of its people.

News Source: TheDetroitBureau.com

Image Credit: Sean Gallup / Getty

Union takes hard stance against German automakers originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 22 May 2012 18:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> daimlereuropefinancegermanyGMig metallopelporscheunions Tue, 22 May 2012 18:02:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20243042/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/22/union-takes-hard-stance-against-german-automakers/20243042/article-detail.xml 20243042 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/20120512-metall-ig-oppose-german-carmakers_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/20120512-metall-ig-oppose-german-carmakers.jpg <![CDATA[GM Europe headed for another restructuring after disappointing losses]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/gm-europe-headed-for-another-restructuring-after-disappointing-l/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/gm-europe-headed-for-another-restructuring-after-disappointing-l/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/05/03/gm-europe-headed-for-another-restructuring-after-disappointing-l/#comments Filed under: , , ,

Opel dealership

General Motors is having a hard time nailing down its European operations. The automaker reported its first-quarter earnings slid by US$1 billion, down from US$3.2 billion in the first quarter of last year. The drop was partially attributable to a one-time loss that included changes in accounting for the automaker's European pensions.

While GM earned US$1.69 billion in North American before taxes, Opel lost US$246 million in the first quarter. Surprisingly, that marks the second best quarter for the automaker in a year. Even so, GM CEO Dan Akerson said that the manufacturer's European operations are headed for substantial revision.

Akerson said the situation is a "four-alarm fire" while speaking during a public radio interview. The executive declined to elaborate on any plans to help stem Opel's losses beyond saying "We're going to have to restructure again."

In 2011, GM lost US$747 million on its European operations, and with the looming debt crisis continuing to undermine consumer confidence in the EU, the company is desperate to ward off a repeat performance. Analysts believe that yet another restructuring will be a lengthy, drawn-out process, but likely won't result in any actual plant closings.

News Source: Automotive News - Sub. Req'd., The Detroit News, The Detroit Bureau

Image Credit: Patrik Stollarz/AFP/Getty

GM Europe headed for another restructuring after disappointing losses originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Thu, 03 May 2012 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> dan akersonearningsgeneral motorsgmgm earningsgm europe restructuringopelopel restructuringrestructuring Thu, 03 May 2012 16:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20230406/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/05/03/gm-europe-headed-for-another-restructuring-after-disappointing-l/20230406/article-detail.xml 20230406 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/opel-dealership_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/05/opel-dealership.jpg <![CDATA[Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/#comments Filed under: , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

Most gearheads know the Opel Ampera is the European near-twin of the Chevy Volt. There are obvious exterior differences, such as the Ampera's "boomerang" headlights and Opel badging, but inside, the only noticeable difference is another Opel badge on the steering wheel.

Bradley Hasemeyer and the Translogic crew traveled to Germany to find out if the trans-Atlantic differences were more than skin deep. Surprisingly, he found one rather interesting revision.

In North American, Volts get three driver-selectable operating modes. We get Normal, Sport and Mountain modes. But German Amperas get a fourth mode: Halten mode. When cruising the Autobahn, drivers can restrict the use of the Ampera's battery and run only on the small, fuel-efficient engine. Once back on surface streets, they can turn loose the battery and bask in bank-account-boosting, ridiculously good, low-cost electric motor cruising.

Why don't we get Halten mode here? Well, the obvious reason is probably that most Canadians don't speak German. Beyond that, though, Hasemeyer can only guess that government regulations might hold back implementation here. The again, maybe General Motors just likes Germans more.

Watch the video after the jump.

Continue reading Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera

Translogic identifies differences of Opel Ampera originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> 2011 opel ampera2012 opel amperaamperaopeltranslogic Wed, 28 Mar 2012 11:00:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20202287/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/28/translogic-identifies-differences-of-opel-ampera/20202287/article-detail.xml 20202287 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-opel-ampera-video-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/2012-opel-ampera-video-opt.jpg <![CDATA[Peugeot suggests expansion of ties with GM into other segments and technology]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/peugeot-suggests-expansion-of-ties-with-gm-into-other-segments-a/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/peugeot-suggests-expansion-of-ties-with-gm-into-other-segments-a/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/28/peugeot-suggests-expansion-of-ties-with-gm-into-other-segments-a/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,

General Motors and PSA Peugeot Citroen CEOs

The ink is only just dry on the contract detailing the collaboration between General Motors and PSA Peugeot Citroën, and already there is talk of going further. GM purchased a seven-per cent stake in PSA to form an alliance that would work together on platforms, small and midsize cars, and MPVs and crossovers, the aim being to strengthen the positions of PSA and Opel. Plans include moving the Opel Corsa to a Peugeot platform, while the Citroën C5 and Peugeot 508 move to GM platform technology.

Peugeot had announced the €220-million development of a dual-clutch transmission that was to be built at its Valenciennes, France factory but just shuttered the project saying it might get them from GM instead. The company also spoke of developing a new small car with GM for the Latin American market.

Another development has been the rearrangement of factory closures. When the deal was announced analysts said that the real issue for Opel and PSA was surplus plant capacity, but one report in Reuters said that plant closures wouldn't be affected by the tie-up. Apparently that's not the case, with an unnamed source telling Reuters in a second story that plant closures were a piece of the deal from the beginning. Peugeot has announced that it wouldn't produce a new small car at its plant in Madrid, Spain, but it won't detail its plant closures until after the French presidential election later this year.

News Source: Reuters [1], [2]

Peugeot suggests expansion of ties with GM into other segments and technology originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> citroëncitroengeneral motorsglobal alliancegmpeugeotpsapsa peugeot citroen Wed, 28 Mar 2012 08:28:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20202653/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/28/peugeot-suggests-expansion-of-ties-with-gm-into-other-segments-a/20202653/article-detail.xml 20202653 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/gm-psa-ceos_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/gm-psa-ceos.jpg <![CDATA[Opel to debut engines developed with SAIC at the Paris Motor Show]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/#comments Filed under: , , , , ,



The resurrected Opel/Vauxhall Junior is expected to be unveiled at the Paris Motor Show later this year with a three-cylinder engine tucked in its engine bay. That motor will be a joint product of General Motors and its Chinese partner SAIC and the heart of Opel and Vauxhall's gas-powered, small-capacity engine family.

Both three- and four-cylinder engines are on the way ranging from 1.0 to 1.4 liters. The Junior is predicted to get a three-cylinder, but Opel hasn't confirmed that or even if the Junior will be the first car to get one of the co-developed motors. Automotive News reports that the engines have "direct injection and turbocharging capability," but with double-digit gains in fuel economy and torque out of the box, those features might not appear immediately.

Above that, there will be 1.6-liter diesel and gas engines to replace current units, perhaps like the 1.4-liter in the Opel Insignia. GM says those engines will come to the U.S. "within two years."

The three-door Junior will be smaller than the Opel Agila (pictured), a challenge to the Mini Cooper and Audi A1. An electric version is a possibility for 2015.

News Source: Automotive News - sub. req.

Opel to debut engines developed with SAIC at the Paris Motor Show originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Tue, 27 Mar 2012 08:27:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> enginegeneral motorsgmopel juniorparisparis 2012paris motor showsaicvauxhall junior Tue, 27 Mar 2012 08:27:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20201549/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/27/opel-to-debut-engines-developed-with-saic-at-the-paris-motor-sho/20201549/article-detail.xml 20201549 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/opeljuniorengine_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/opeljuniorengine.jpg <![CDATA[Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year]]> http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/ http://ca.autoblog.com/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/#comments Filed under: , , , , , ,

2012 Opel Ampera

The Chevrolet Volt may not be selling well, but it's one of the most lauded cars in history. Today the plug-in hybrid was named the 2012 European Car of the Year, an award it will share with its European fraternal twin, the Opel Ampera.

The Volt won North American Car of the Year in 2011, while also picking up car of the year accolades from Motor Trend, Automobile, and nabbing Green Car of the Year from Green Car Journal. Britain's What Car? awarded the Vauxhall Ampera - as the Opel model is called in the U.K. - its Green Car of the Year award, as well.

But the Volt has been at the center of one controversy after another, since even before it was launched. A National Highway Traffic Safety Administration investigation into a battery fire showed the car was not defective, but it led to the Ampera being delayed. Recent negative publicity among right-leaning political pundits has contributed to making the Volt something of an enigma for General Motors, which just announced it was suspending production of the slow-selling car.

While Europe was never envisioned as the prime market for the Volt/Ampera, GM says it already has 7,000 orders for the Ampera and that the company expects to hit its target of 10,000 sales this year. Certainly, winning this award, presented at the Geneva Motor Show for the first time this year, should help.

The Volt/Ampera finished significantly ahead of the Volkswagen Up! and Ford Focus in the European Car of the Year voting, which included a field of 35 vehicles.

To read the full press release, click past the jump.

Continue reading Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year

Chevy Volt and Opel Ampera named 2012 European Car of the Year originally appeared on Autoblog Canada on Mon, 05 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]> amperacar of the yearchevroleteuropean car of the yeareuropean car of the year 2012general motorsgenevageneva 2012gmopelvauxhallvolt Mon, 05 Mar 2012 18:30:00 EST http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/20186323/article-comments.xml http://ca.autoblog.com/feed/2012/03/05/chevy-volt-and-opel-ampera-named-2012-european-car-of-the-year/20186323/article-detail.xml 20186323 http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt_thumbnail.jpg http://www.blogcdn.com/www.autoblog.com/media/2012/03/01-opel-ampera-geneva-opt.jpg -1 2