Top design and technology: Opel presents new Vectra and new Signum


Opel has issued the following press release:

Highlights of the new Vectra and Signum include a completely new, striking face in the dynamic Opel design language, an extensively modified engine range with a brand new, top-of-the-line 230 hp 2.8-liter V6 turbo, as well as an array of class-leading technical features. The latest edition of Opel’s successful mid-size model range also features new chassis tuning with optimized steering precision for more distinctive driving dynamics, and improved comfort. The IDSPlus (Interactive Driving System) chassis with electronic CDC (Continuous Damping Control) is still unique in this class and is now available with even more engines. Also best-in-class: bi-xenon headlamps with curve and cornering light (AFL – Adaptive Forward Lighting), and the maintenance-free diesel particulate filter system fitted as standard with all diesel variants, including the new 100 hp 1.9 CDTI. The new Vectra and Signum models will be built in the state-of-the-art Rüsselsheim plant in Germany, sales start in September.

“The new front clearly reflects the excellent driving dynamics of the new Vectra models and the new Signum”, says Hans H. Demant, Vice President of Engineering, GM Europe, and Managing Director, Adam Opel AG. “Expressive design and a leading-edge technical concept are typical of successful cars.” Shortly after its launch in 2002, the Vectra became the best-selling mid-size sedan in Europe, and held on to the top spot last year with a market segment share of 9.2 percent. In total, around 600,000 third-generation Vectras have been sold worldwide to date. The Vectra also earned top marks in numerous tests carried out by German and European automotive media.

Dynamic front in new Opel design language and updated interior
The most distinctive feature of the new four and five-door Vectra sedan, Vectra station wagon and Opel Signum is the newly designed front end – a further development of the new Opel design language. Together with the characteristic shoulder line, the front expresses dynamics and sportiness. Further distinctive characteristics are the typical Opel crease in the engine hood, sharper tapering of the front bumper and, most notably, the new headlamps, which stretch into the newly-formed fender and hood. With their cylindrical, chrome-colored lamp units behind clear glass, the headlamps are the eye-catching highlight of the front of the Vectra and Signum. A wide chrome crossbar with large Opel emblem is the dominant feature of the grille. A black honeycomb structure and large side air-intakes with integrated fog lamps emphasize the wide appearance of the new Vectra´s front end.

The interior of the Signum and Vectra is more than ever defined by high quality look and feel. The top sections of the instrument panel and door trim have a new, leather-look grain. The cockpit makes a lighter, more elegant impression, thanks to the new contours of the instrument panel, the rounded corners of air vents and the chrome-colored controls. This is all complemented by newly designed, dual-color décor trim with large inlays in wood or aluminum-look and a sweeping dome over the instruments. All versions of the new Vectra and Signum feature a sporty, three-spoke steering wheel.

With its innovative body concept, which combines the spaciousness of a station wagon with the sporty lines of a coupé, and its unrivalled FlexSpace versatility, the Signum has a special place in the Opel mid-size model range. To visually underline this special position, the designers set additional accents in the front design of the new Signum. A central air-intake surrounded by a U-shaped chrome frame and chrome-ringed fog lamps emphasize the vertical lines and communicate a discreet elegance.

New top-of-the-line 2.8 V6 turbo engine, extended diesel range, DPF standard
A wide range of modern ECOTEC engines is available for the new Vectra and Signum – five gasoline engines (1.6 – 2.8 liter, 100 – 230 hp) and four CDTI common-rail diesels (1.9 – 3.0 liter, 100 – 184 hp), which are equipped with a maintenance-free diesel particulate filter as standard. All engines comply with the Euro 4 emissions standard.

The most powerful engine for all versions of the Vectra and the Signum is an all-new 2.8-liter aluminum gasoline six-cylinder unit with a twin-scroll turbocharger for plenty of power in all driving situations. The sixty-degree V6 with variable valve control delivers 90 percent of its maximum torque of 330 Nm at 1500 rpm. Peak torque is provided across a wide range from 1800 to 4500 rpm. Driving performance with this engine is equally impressive: only 7.4* seconds are required for the zero to 100 km/h sprint and top speed is around 250* km/h – a new record for the Vectra. The top-of-the-line diesel engine is the 3.0 V6 CDTI with 135 kW/184 hp and a maximum torque of 400 Nm available from 2000 rpm. A new 100 hp variant of the 1.9 CDTI rounds off the diesel range.

Depending on the engine, either a five or six-speed manual or automatic transmission is available for the front-wheel drive Vectra and Signum. Apart from the 1.6 and 1.8-liter entry-level gasoline units, all engines are equipped as standard with a six-speed manual gearbox, while a six-speed automatic with ActiveSelect is available for the 2.8 V6 Turbo, the 150 hp 1.9 CDTI and the 3.0 V6 CDTI.

Improved handling and more comfort
The enhanced IDS chassis (Interactive Driving System) provides even better vehicle control while offering a noticeable increase in comfort. New tuning of the front and rear suspension, as well as of the electro-hydraulic steering, improves straight-line stability and enables more sensitive steering response in the straight-ahead position. In addition to the chassis fine-tuning, optimized front and rear-axle bushings are primarily responsible for increased comfort.

Range of class-leading technical features further extended
The IDSPlus chassis with electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and networking of all driving dynamics systems is still unique in the mid-size segment, giving Opel a leading position in adaptive chassis systems. Further technical highlights in the Vectra and Signum include the AFL bi-xenon headlamps with dynamic curve light and static cornering light, and the climate-controlled, orthopedically recommended MultiContour driver’s seat. New options are the innovative Trailer Stability Assist, which prevents dangerous yawing of the car-trailer combination, the Quickheat heating system, and a cellular phone portal with Bluetooth interface and voice control.

Versatility in dynamic design
While the sedans already boast generous interior space, the Vectra station wagon continues to set the benchmark in the mid-size segment with a maximum load capacity of 1850 liters (VDA norm). In addition, the Vectra station wagon offers numerous clever and highly practical features, such as the versatile FlexOrganizer system for the luggage compartment, a remote controlled power tailgate and a pivoting tow hitch.

The Opel Signum has the same wheelbase (2830 mm) as the Vectra station wagon, which is 130 mm longer than the sedan´s. With its unique, innovative FlexSpace concept, the Signum provides optimum flexibility with a dynamic and elegant appearance. Just a few quick and easy adjustments are needed to turn the five-seater into a four-seater with exceptional comfort usually only found in luxury cars. Each outer rear seat slides 130 mm to provide maximum legroom or more luggage space. With all three rear seat backs folded forward, a completely flat cargo area is created. In this configuration, up to 1410 liters of luggage space is available. Its unrivalled versatility, exceptional interior space, innovative technology and unique body concept ensure the Signum a special place in the mid-size segment.