In North America, we know Opel in such vehicles as the Cadillac Catera, Saturn Aura, and Buick Regal. However, none of these products actually wear the Opel badge in their respective export markets. As such, it comes as a surprise that GM is looking to expand the Opel brand to international markets all over the world.
Currently, Opel is one of The General’s brands that has very little exposure outside of Europe. Earlier last year, GM tested Opel in the Chinese market by offering a limited range of Opel models, including the (old) Astra sedan and hatchback, Zafira, and Antara. The trial run moved 4,000 cars and contributed to GM’s decision to initiate a full-scale launch of Opel in China. The General hopes to position Opel as a premium European brand in the burgeoning country, joning the already-successful Buick brand.
Over the last few years, the Chinese auto market has been on a tremendous upswing, with a sizable amount of consumers attaining the ability to afford a premium vehicle. At this point, it is unclear how Opel will overlap with Buick in China and whether the two brands will offer the same vehicles with different badges (Opel Insignia and Buick Regal, Opel Astra and Buick Excelle). Needless to say, the GM Authority crew certainly hopes that GM isn’t up to its old tricks of badge engineering all over again.
In addition to China, GM is looking to bring Opel into Australia and various markets in the Asia-Pacific and South American regions. It’s currently unknown whether North America is a candidate for the European brand, but given GM’s decision to send Pontiac and Saturn to the automotive graveyard last year, we find it highly unlikely.
[Source: Left Lane News]The sweepstakes closes on December 22nd and the drawing will take place on December 28th.
At a time of year when luxury car ATP usually rises.
Sales decreased 5.6 percent to 16,670 units during the first ten months of 2024.
Specifically critical minerals supply chain development.
Scheduled for a Spring 2025 launch.