The world premiere of the GTC Concept (Gran Turismo Coupe) at the 2007 Geneva Motor Show gives an insight into how dynamic and refreshing Opel’s new design language will look in the future. “This concept car demonstrates the new interpretation of the Opel brand,” explains Alain Visser, Executive Director, European Opel Marketing. “The GTC Concept embodies the confident, emotional direction we’re taking with Opel. Its exciting lines combined with its high driving dynamics and interior flexibility reflect what the Opel brand trademark characteristics will be in the future.” Even a new, more refined brand emblem, with the Opel name proudly embossed into the Blitz ring, is suggested.
Dynamic Design
Key elements of the silk grey-lacquered Coupe concept car begin with an aggressive front end performance face emphasized by large aluminum vertical intakes that intersect the headlamps. These vertical elements are mimicked in the rear exhaust elements, proposing an unmistakable down-the-road signature performance graphic, coming or going.
Another significant design cue of the two-door sport-coupe with its sleek silhouette is the sophisticated bodyside shapes and surfacing. The sheetmetal surfaces suggest athleticism coupled with elegance to provide tasteful distinction in a visually loud marketplace. The car features sculpted side lines that further progress the Opel profile shown on the Antara and Opel GT production vehicles.
In addition, large flares hug the aggressive wheel and tire package, visually suggesting road confidence to the customer. Thanks to the wide track, the Opel GTC Concept provides a commanding stance, planted by 20-inch rims with 245/40 R20 “red line” styled rubber. The wheels reference the motor sport aesthetic of black rims - however, elegantly finished with high- gloss black spokes contrasted with machine polished edges, alluding a signature performance wheel look.
Warmer and More Inviting Interior
The Opel GTC Concept significantly represents the next chapter of Opel’s interior brand identity. Echoing the exterior, the interior shapes and surfaces are sculpturally-crafted to visually articulate a dynamic driving experience. The dashboard’s top-pad wraps around from the instrument panel to the door, embracing the occupants. The sweeping decor dynamically stretches one’s eye from the surfaces of the door and instrument panel, creating a memorable environment. The horizontal theme is secured with a large integrated centerstack design floating above the decor surface, an appearance reminiscent of premium audio equipment.
Powerful Engine and Intelligent Four-wheel Drive System
The Opel GTC concept car is powered by a turbocharged, 300 bhp, 2.8-liter V6 gasoline engine with two variable camshafts, which is combined with a six-speed manual transmission. Maximum torque of 295 lb-ft is available from 1850 up to 4500 rpm, and accelerating from zero to 62 mph is calculated to take around six seconds. Top speed is limited to 155 mph.
The power from the high-tech turbo engine is channeled via an advanced, electronically-controlled four-wheel drive system, which is fully integrated into the car’s adaptive IDSPlus chassis management system. An electronically-regulated torque transfer device seamlessly distributes power between the front and rear axles for optimum traction and driving performance. The high-speed control allows more power to be provided to the rear axle before any traction loss can occur, for example during quick acceleration. This creates a driving feel similar to a sporty rear-wheel drive car. An electronically-controlled limited slip differential at the rear axle provides additional stability and traction thanks to torque distribution between the rear wheels.
Major benefits of the Opel GTC Concept’s intelligent four-wheel drive system are: optimum traction and stability in all driving conditions as well as excellent agility and an active driving feel.
