By Drew Johnson
Thursday, Sep 13th, 2007 @ 11:57 am

Opel officials have announced that the automaker is considering launching a new model in the premium segment. GM’s European boss Carl Peter Forster and Opel’s Chief Hans Demant have reportedly given the project the green light. The new model would be positioned above the current Vectra range topper. Opel proposed a flagship model back in 2000 with its Insignia concept.
In an effort to keep development costs down, Opel is considering basing the new model on an existing GM platform. In an interview with AutomobilWoche, Hans Demant admitted that the market for such a car is small but that using an existing platform would help Opel avoid any significant financial risk.

Officials have yet to name which models are being considered for the Opel treatment, although the new Cadillac CTS is believed to be the leading candidate. GM’s Australian arm, Holden, could also be used for the new model.

GM has brought several Opel vehicles to the U.S. under the Saturn brand, but don’t count on seeing a Saturn-badged CTS.

23 Comments