Opel Insignia to get ecoFLEX mods, will debut in Paris

Just as Volkswagen does with its BlueMotion label, Opel offers a unique model on each of its nameplates with the ecoFLEX moniker attached. As you might imagine, this badge signifies that the vehicle it is affixed to is the greenest variant of that particular model. Naturally, when the European brand unveiled its new Insignia, a replacement for the popular Vectra midsize sedan, it was only a matter of time before the world got a look at the ecoFLEX version, and that debut is scheduled to take place in Paris at the upcoming Motor Show. We'll be on hand at the event, and we'll surely get all the details then. We expect that some low rolling-resistance tires will be fitted along with revised gearing and maybe even some slight aerodynamic modifications. GM has been doing something similar in the States with its XFE badge, but we don't know if any of these same revisions will be included when the Insignia makes its way to the U.S. as a Saturn.

[Source: Opel]

PRESS RELEASE:

Opel Showcases Two World Premieres at Paris Motor Show

PARIS, September 18, 2008 – At the Paris Motor Show (Oct. 4 – 19), Opel arrives fully equipped with two world premieres - its dynamic new Insignia Sports Tourer with two new engines and the sleek Insignia ecoFLEX model that combines driving fun with fuel efficiency.

Opel's new station wagon wraps leading technologies in a sporty, premium body at an affordable price. The Insignia Sports Tourer boasts the same athletic, powerful and elegant design as its sedan counterpart. Yet, as Mark Adams, Vice-President of GM Europe Design points up, "this vehicle has is own very unique personality, while still remaining consistent to the new design language that we have developed for Opel." Sales of the Sports Tourer start in spring 2009.

Two new engines for the entire Insignia class also debut. The innovative 2.0-liter BiTurbo diesel with clean tech combustion system has 190 hp, and the downsized 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine reaches 180 hp. These two new additions complement the wide range of seven motors – all Euro 5-certified – already on offer for the Insignia.

In addition, Opel will give the world its first glimpse at the new Insignia ecoFLEX, which offers environmentally friendly driving without compromising on performance. In contrast to competitors, it is not a low-end model, but rather a sophisticated, powerful automobile that blends driving dynamics with high fuel efficiency.