An Opel is a German automobile manufacturer with a long history, currently owned by the multinational automotive corporation Stellantis. For American drivers, the most direct point of reference is that Opel is closely related to Buick. For decades, many Buick models sold in the U.S. were essentially redesigned Opels. Today, while the Opel brand itself is not sold in new car dealerships stateside, its engineering and platform-sharing continue to influence vehicles across Stellantis brands, including those possibly destined for the North American market.
Opel was founded in Germany in 1862, originally producing sewing machines and bicycles before building its first car in 1899. It became a major force in the European automotive industry. A key moment in its history relevant to Americans was its acquisition by General Motors (GM) in 1929. For most of the 20th century, Opel served as GM's primary European subsidiary. This relationship led to the "badge-engineering" practice where Opel models were rebadged and sold in the U.S. under the Saturn and, most notably, the Buick brand. Cars like the Buick Regal were often based directly on Opel platforms.
In 2017, GM sold Opel and its British sister brand, Vauxhall, to the PSA Group, which later merged into Stellantis. This moved Opel into the same corporate family as Peugeot, Citroën, Fiat, and Chrysler. Opel is known for producing a wide range of vehicles, from compact cars like the Corsa and Astra to SUVs like the Mokka and Grandland. They have a strong reputation for practicality, efficient engines, and solid build quality that appeals to European family buyers.
Here is a look at some of Opel's core models and their key features:
| Model | Segment | Key Characteristics & Notable Data |
|---|
| Opel Corsa | Supermini / B-Segment | One of Europe's best-selling cars; available with fully electric powertrain (Corsa-e). |
| Opel Astra | Compact / C-Segment | Offered as a hatchback and wagon; features sleek design and intuitive infotainment. |
| Opel Mokka | Subcompact Crossover | Distinctive styling, particularly the "Vizor" front end; also available as all-electric Mokka-e. |
| Opel Grandland | Compact Crossover | Larger SUV offering, featuring plug-in hybrid options for improved fuel efficiency. |
| Opel Insignia | Midsize Car / D-Segment | Flagship sedan and wagon, known for a comfortable ride and spacious interior. |
While you can't walk into a dealer and buy a new Opel in the U.S., its legacy lives on. Understanding what an Opel is helps explain the European origins of several popular American cars from recent decades.
