Opel rolls out new cars at Frankfurt motor show

While some automakers had just one or two new cars to show off at the Frankfurt motor show, GM's Opel division flooded the show with seven new offerings that'll be revealed as the show progresses. While there were plenty of new production models to be seen, including the revised Opel Insignia lineup, it was perhaps the Opel Monza concept that was designed to grab the attention of showgoers.

We got a sneak peek at the Opel Monza concept a couple months ago, and even though a production version is not planned, the Monza is meant to showcase Opel's recent resurgence. The Monza concept is meant to demonstrate Opel's two main goals for the next ten years: efficiency and connectivity. The "Drive Opel 2022" strategy envisions 23 new Opel models in current and entirely new segments, as well as 13 new engines by the year 2016.

Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann said the following "The Monza Concept is our vision of connected and efficient mobility. It impressively shows that we at Opel have a very clear idea of the direction in which we are developing our technology and design. It is the model that will drive us forward. And it is also a symbol of our brand's regained strength!”

Opel
The Insignia Country Tourer pairs capable engines and all-wheel drive with the versatility of a wagon.

And when it comes to production cars, Opel didn't disappoint either. One of the most anticipated premieres for Opel at Frankfurt is the Opel Insignia Country Tourer, a station wagon that's been given some off road chops via a high-strength protective guard under the engine compartment, wider wheelarches, and body cladding. But it's not "all show and no go" -- the Insignia Country Tourer will offer all-wheel drive with FlexRide chassis technology and a range of powerful engines. The 250 horsepower 2.0-liter SIDI direct injection gas engine looks perfect for the job, though a torquey 2.0-liter BiTurbo CDTI engine is also available. With the latter offering 295 lb-ft of torque, we're not sure which one we'd go for, especially given the fact that both come with six-speed manual transmissions.

That's right, Opel has built a car targeted directly at American auto journalists, and we're pretty sure we can get this model in a nice shade of brown as well. We can't help but think that this model would be a success in America, just given the popularity of wagons on offer from Subaru. (Anyone who says that wagons just don't sell should see just how many wagons Subaru is selling every month.) The $36,990 price tag for the diesel version of the Opel Insignia Country Tourer with all-wheel drive would certainly translate into something very north of $40,000 for us, though when it comes to German all-wheel drive wagons that's probably a bargain.

Opel
A sporty new offering from the German marque is the Opel Insignia OPC, a quick new wagon with 325 horsepower on tap.

As if that wasn't enough, Opel also showed off a performance version of the Opel Insignia called the OPC, a sporty station wagon that offers 325 hp and 320 lb-ft of torque. Opel has tweaked the exterior accordingly, with distinctive detailing front and back, but it's the 2.8-liter V6 turbo underhood that makes all the difference, especially when coupled with a six-speed manual and all-wheel drive.

Opel
The Opel ADAM White Link does indeed remind us of a certain smartphone.

Opel also showed off a couple new versions of its popular ADAM hatches, which are also sold in the U.K. under Vauxhall badges. The new Opel ADAM Black Link and White Link versions come with IntelliLink infotainment systems, as well as with Siri Eyes Free voice control standard. Opel has sought to emulate the looks of smartphones in designing these two new versions of the ADAM, and as far as we're concerned they certainly do look like a pair of stylish smartphones. The ADAM White Link comes with a lacquer finish Opel calls Saturday White Fever, and offers 18-inch wheels, a roof spoiler, and LED daytime running lights.

About the show

The 2013 Frankfurt motor show will be held Sept. 10-22 in Germany. Premium automakers appear ready to try to outdo each other with eye-catching electric supercars. Green technology and fuel efficiency will take center stage on the stands of most automakers at the show. For news, reveals and photos straight from the floor in Frankfurt, check out our special Frankfurt motor show section here.

By Jay Ramey