The new Vectra models are on the starting grid: sales of the new versions of the successful Opel mid-size models will start September 17, shortly after they premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt

2006 Opel Vectra GTS

Specifications
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  • Model: 2006 Opel Vectra GTS

2007 Opel Vectra GTS

Specifications
  • [do not use] Vehicle Model: Array

Highlights include a completely new, striking face in dynamic Opel design language, an extensively modified engine range with a brand new, top-of-the-line 230 hp 2.8-liter V6 turbo unit, as well as an array of unique technical features. The new Vectra and Signum models also feature new chassis tuning including optimized steering precision for more distinctive driving dynamics with improved comfort. The IDSPlus (Interactive Driving System) chassis with electronic CDC (Continuous Damping Control) is still unique in this class and now also available with the 2.2 Direct engine. Also best-in-class: bi-xenon headlamps with curve and cornering light (AFL - Adaptive Forward Lighting), as well as the maintenance-free diesel particulate filter system fitted as standard with all diesel variants, including the new 100 hp 1.9 CDTI. Additional features include a state-of-the-art cellular phone console with Bluetooth technology, and the innovative Trailer Stability Assist, which prevents dangerous yawing of the car-trailer combination.

"The new front clearly expresses the superb driving dynamics of the new Vectra models and new Signum. Combined with numerous class-leading technical innovations, the course is set for continued success in the mid-size segment", says Hans H. Demant, Vice President Engineering, General Motors Europe. Like their predecessors, the new Vectra and Signum will be produced in the state-of-the-art Rüsselsheim plant.

Shortly after the launch in 2002, the Vectra already became one of Europe's most successful sedans in the classic mid-size segment, and held on to this position in the first half of 2005 with a segment share of over 10 percent in a highly competitive environment. In total, over 600,000 third-generation Vectras have been sold worldwide to date. This model range also played a major role in Opel's 30 top results in numerous tests carried out by German and European automotive press since 2004. The Signum also achieved excellent results in customer satisfaction in the latest J.D. Power Report in Germany: the Signum was named best German car in the survey, which also assesses reliability.

New Vectra and Signum buyers benefit not only from a fresh design, improved driving dynamics and many refined details, but also from the same competitive entry-level prices of their respective predecessors, with Vectra prices starting at 20,350 euros and Signum prices at 23,680 euros (recommended retail prices ex works in Germany including VAT).

Design

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 spottiness. 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 lattice structure and large side air-intakes with integrated fog lamps emphasize the dynamic appearance of the Vectra's front end. To visually underline the special position of the Signum as a prime example of dynamics and elegance combined with unique interior flexibility, the designers set additional accents in the front design of the new version. 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.

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 (from Edition). This is all complemented by newly designed décor trim with inlays in wood, aluminum, or carbon-look "Silver Line" (from Edition in dual-color) and a sweeping dome over the instruments. All versions of the new Vectra and Signum feature a sporty, three-spoke steering wheel.

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Engines

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 7.3 seconds are required for the zero to 100 km/h sprint and top speed (electronically limited) is 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 maximum torque of 400 Nm available from 1900 rpm. The Vectra sedan boasts fuel consumption of only 6.9 liters per 100 km with this engine. New to the diesel range is a 100 hp version - in addition to the 120 hp and 150 hp units - of the 1.9 CDTI engine. The 1.9-liter units feature newest-generation multiple direct injection and high torque values (260 to 320 Nm) with low MVEG average fuel consumption (5.7 to 5.9 liters per 100 km).

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 ex works with a six-speed manual gearbox, while an adaptive 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. With this transmission, it is also possible to change gear manually in a second shift gutter. In addition, the engine adapts to prevailing driving style and conditions.

Chassis

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 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.

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. As part of the new Vectra and Signum chassis modifications, specialists at the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) in Rüsselsheim also refined the CDC software, resulting in even more driving dynamics and increased comfort.

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Technical highlights

Highlights in technical innovations include IDSPlus with CDC and steering-linked AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting) headlamps. This adaptive bi-xenon system for the Vectra and Signum is the only application worldwide to offer dynamic curve light with static cornering light and adaptive highway light in one unit. Further highlights include the climate-controlled, orthopedically recommended MultiContour driver's seat, which can be precisely adjusted to perfectly match the individual needs of the driver, as well as three new innovative features: Trailer Stability Assist, which prevents dangerous yawing of the car-trailer combination, Quickheat heating system, and a cellular phone console with Bluetooth interface and voice control.

Variety

The four-door Vectra sedan is offered in the equipment lines Vectra, Edition and Cosmo. The five-door hatchback, station wagon and Signum are additionally available in the Sport variant, which can be recognized on the hatchback (from 1.8-liter ECOTEC) by the "GTS" badge. All models, including even entry-level versions, are equipped with the comprehensive comfort package as standard.

This includes air conditioning, remote control central locking for all doors and trunk, height-adjustable driver's seat, power windows in front, reach and height-adjustable steering wheel, as well as heated power exterior mirrors.

While the sedans already boast generous passenger and luggage space (four/five door models: 500 to 1050/1360 liters), 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 is available with numerous clever and highly practical extra features, such as the versatile FlexOrganizer system for the luggage compartment, a remote control power tailgate and a pivoting tow hitch.

Innovative

Its innovative body concept, which combines the spaciousness of a station wagon with the sporty lines of a coupé, and its unrivalled interior versatility ensure the Signum a special place in the model range and in the whole mid-size segment. 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.