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Opel has been going through quite a change the last few years, switching from General Motors ownership to Group PSA.
While under its former ownership things were a bit rocky and new vehicle launches very widespread, the brand looks to be on a good wicket under its new parent company.
So much so that Opel will launch four new models in 2020.
Needless to say, Opel’s local arm is quite excited about the prospect of these models coming to our shores, saying: “2020 promises to be an exciting year for Opel here in Southern Africa.”
Here are the vehicles Opel are planning to launch this year.
Opel Astra – Second quarter
The Opel Astra won the South African Car of the Year in 2017, and quickly elevated its status over its rivals. Sadly for the German automaker, the Astra could never overcome the strong reputation the Volkswagen Golf enjoys in our country.
This year, however, Opel is bringing a number of changes about that should see the Astra regain some lost ground in the market. The alterations include a new design and eco-friendly LED headlamps.
WATCH: Meet the understated Opel Astra
Opel Astra. Image: QuickPic
Opel Corsa – Third/fourth quarter
The Corsa is perhaps one of Opel’s cars that’s been pushed onto the back burner. While Opel updated virtually its entire range, the Corsa received little to no attention. But with Opel now under Group PSA, the Corsa is in line for an entirely new model to make its appearance.
Revealed at the recently concluded Frankfurt Motor Show, the sixth generation Corsa shares its underpinnings with the new Peugeot 208. Highlights on the forthcoming vehicle include assistance systems such as emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and adaptive cruise control. The new Corsa weighs 980kg, and the automaker says the driver sits 28mm than in the current model.
WATCH: The Opel Corsa GSi looks damn good in red
Opel Corsa. Image: QuickPic
Opel Zafira Life – Third quarter
Opel is ready to unleash the cat among the pigeons with the arrival of its nine-seater Zafira Life.
Tobias Gubitz, international marketing director, Opel/Vauxhall, said: “Our new Opel Zafira Life is the ideal family, leisure and business van with space for up to nine occupants. Here, every passenger enjoys comfort - never mind where they sit.”
According to Opel SA, the Zafira Life has a height of just under 1.9m, which should create fair amount of space and practicality. The Zafira was available to the South African market a few years ago but was pulled from the market. Now that it’s making a return, Opel is hoping it’ll hit a chord with prospective clients.
The Zafira Life will be powered by a turbocharged 2.0-litre diesel engine.
Opel Zafira Life. Image: QuickPic
Opel Vivaro Cargo Panel Van – Third quarter
Moving slightly away from passenger vehicles, Opel will also expand its commercial vehicle offering with the Vivaro Cargo Panel Van. Now in its third generation, the Vivaro CPV utilizes the same diesel engine as the Zafira Life, and is dubbed by Opel as an ‘office on wheels’ – underlining its utilitarian purpose.
Opel says the Vivaro CPV is safer, more comfortable and more practical.
Opel Vivaro Cargo Panel Van. Image: QuickPic
Compiled by: Charlen Raymond
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