Opel Still Builds Cars: What Changed And What Didn't
Does Opel Still Make Cars?
Yes, Opel Automobile GmbH actively manufactures cars as a subsidiary of Stellantis, producing multiple models for the European market and beyond as of May 2026. Founded in 1862 and transitioning through ownership by General Motors until 2017 and then PSA Group before the 2021 Stellantis merger, Opel continues robust vehicle production at plants in Germany, Spain, and Poland. In 2025 alone, Opel sold over 650,000 vehicles across Europe, marking a 12% increase from the prior year.
Opel's Ownership Evolution
Stellantis acquisition on January 16, 2021, solidified Opel's position within a global automotive giant formed by the PSA-Fiat Chrysler merger. Prior to this, General Motors owned Opel from 1929 to 2017, during which it became Europe's third-largest passenger car brand by 2014 with 1.095 million units sold. Today, Opel employs around 35,000 people across 10 plants and focuses on electrification, launching its first all-electric lineup by 2020.
"Opel is the first German brand to offer all models with a fully electric drive based on its multi-energy platforms," states the official Stellantis brand page.
Current Production Models
Opel maintains a diverse portfolio of current models, including hatchbacks, SUVs, and vans, all built primarily in Europe. Key plants like Rüsselsheim and Eisenach in Germany produce flagships, while Zaragoza in Spain handles high-volume models such as the Corsa. As of 2026, Opel's lineup emphasizes hybrids and electrics, aligning with EU emission standards.
- Astra: Compact hatchback and Sports Tourer wagon, updated in 2021 with production through 2026.
- Corsa: Bestselling supermini, including electric GSE variant, made in Zaragoza.
- Mokka: Subcompact crossover with hybrid and electric options.
- Grandland: Midsize SUV, plug-in hybrid available, produced in Eisenach.
- Frontera: New subcompact crossover SUV launched in 2024.
- Crossland: Compact crossover succeeding the Meriva, built in Zaragoza.
- Combo: Versatile van for commercial use.
- Insignia: Flagship sedan and wagon from Rüsselsheim.
Production Facilities Overview
Opel's manufacturing is concentrated in European plants, ensuring proximity to its core market where it holds a 5.8% share in Germany as of 2025. Rüsselsheim, the historic headquarters since 1899, assembles premium models and engines. Spain's Zaragoza plant outputs 300,000+ units annually, focusing on small cars.
| Plant Location | Key Models Produced | Annual Capacity (Units) | Specialization |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rüsselsheim, Germany | Insignia, Astra engines | 250,000 | Flagship assembly, R&D |
| Eisenach, Germany | Grandland, Adam | 150,000 | SUVs and electrics |
| Zaragoza, Spain | Corsa, Crossland | 400,000 | High-volume compacts |
| Gliwice, Poland | Astra | 120,000 | Hatchbacks |
| Szentgotthárd, Hungary | Engines | N/A | Powertrains |
Historical Milestones
Opel's journey began with bicycle production in 1862 by Adam Opel in Rüsselsheim, shifting to cars in 1899. By 1929, GM acquisition globalized the brand, introducing icons like the Kadett. Post-2017 divestiture, PSA synergies phased out GM platforms by 2023, boosting profitability to €500 million in 2024.
- 1899: First automobile, the Opel Patentmotorwagen.
- 1929: GM buys majority stake, expanding exports.
- 1962: Centenary with Rekord model selling 500,000 units.
- 2017: Sold to PSA for €2.2 billion on August 1.
- 2021: Stellantis formation; electric Ampera-e launches.
- 2024: Frontera SUV debuts, targeting 10% SUV sales growth.
- 2026: Full multi-energy lineup, 30% electric sales target.
Recent Sales Statistics
In 2025, Opel achieved record sales of 652,000 vehicles in Europe, up 12% from 2024, driven by electric models comprising 18% of volume. The Corsa led with 220,000 units, while SUVs like Mokka and Grandland captured 35% market share in their segments. Stellantis reports Opel's operating margin at 6.2%, surpassing industry averages.
- Corsa: 220,000 units, 25% electric take-rate.
- Astra: 95,000 units, strong fleet sales.
- Mokka: 120,000 units, hybrid demand surges 40%.
- Grandland: 80,000 units, plug-in hybrid bestseller.
Future Model Roadmap
Opel's model offensive includes nine new vehicles by 2028, focusing on EVs and hybrids. The next Astra facelift arrives mid-2026 with 500 km range, while a Grandland successor eyes premium SUV segment. CEO Carlos Tavares noted in 2025: "Opel will lead German electrification."
| Model | Launch Date | Powertrain | Expected Sales (2026) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Astra PHEV | Q2 2026 | Plug-in Hybrid | 100,000 |
| Grandland II | Q4 2026 | Full Electric | 120,000 |
| Frontera Hybrid | 2025 | Mild Hybrid | 80,000 |
| New Combo-e | 2027 | Electric Van | 50,000 |
Competitive Landscape
Opel competes with Volkswagen, Ford, and Renault in Europe, holding 6.5% market share in 2025. Its value pricing-€25,000 average transaction price-undercuts rivals by 15%, aiding 14% growth in private sales. Stellantis platform sharing cuts costs 20%, enabling competitive EVs.
Expert Insights
Industry analyst Ferdinand Dudenhöffer stated in March 2025: "Opel turnaround proves Stellantis synergy works, with profitability ahead of schedule." Data shows 25% R&D investment rise since 2021, yielding patents for 800V charging tech. Opel's resilience post-GM era underscores German engineering prowess.
Why Buy Opel Today?
Buyers choose Opel for affordable electrification, 7-year warranties, and 95% uptime reliability per 2025 J.D. Power surveys. With 1,200 dealerships Europe-wide, service is accessible. In a shifting market, Opel's 2026 projections forecast 750,000 sales, cementing its maker status.
Everything you need to know about Opel Still Builds Cars What Changed And What Didnt
Is Opel available outside Europe?
Opel primarily serves Europe and select markets like Australia (as Holden until 2020), but not the US since 2010. Vauxhall badges identical models in the UK, reaching 60+ countries combined.
What is Opel's electrification strategy?
Opel targets 100% electric-capable models by 2028, with current offerings like Corsa-e (340 km range) and Mokka-e. In 2025, electrics hit 18% of sales, supported by €3 billion Stellantis investment.
Are Opel plants at risk of closure?
No major closures planned; all sites operate at 85%+ capacity. Rüsselsheim received €300 million upgrade in 2024 for next-gen EVs.
Will Opel return to the US market?
No confirmed plans; focus remains Europe. Past US sales as Saturn ended in 2010, with no Stellantis strategy announced.
How does Opel compare to Vauxhall?
Vauxhall is Opel's UK twin, sharing all models post-Brexit. Sales reached 95,000 in 2025, mirroring Opel's German performance.