Opel has improved the efficiency of its 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX model, reducing the carbon footprint on the Zafira seven-seater compact van by nearly nine percent to 139 g/km.

This ultra-low emissions figure also means that it’s the most fuel efficient diesel seven-seat compact van on the market. Breaking the 140 g/km barrier also places the Zafira 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX below the tax bracket in many European states, such as France, the U.K. and the Nordic countries.

The 1.7 liter diesel with 81 kW/110 hp is fitted with a maintenance-free particulate filter and a six-speed manual transmission as standard. It now sips just 5.3 liters of diesel per 100 km. The reduced CO2 value of 139 g/km CO2 compares with 152 g/km on the previous model for a reduction of nearly nine percent.

The 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX with its 260 Nm of torque available from 2000 to 2300 rpm – the same engine as featured on the Astra ecoFLEX – reaches a top speed of 180 km/h and accelerates to 100 km/h in 13.5 sec.

Moreover, the price, starting at 22,555 euros in Germany, stays unchanged. It is available from April 6.

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OPEL new Insignia Sports Tourer with two new engines and the sleek Insignia ecoFLEX model that combines driving fun with fuel efficiency.

Opel’s new station wagon wraps leading technologies in a sporty, premium body at an affordable price. The Insignia Sports Tourer boasts the same athletic, powerful and elegant design as its sedan counterpart. Yet, as Mark Adams, Vice-President of GM Europe Design points up, “this vehicle has is own very unique personality, while still remaining consistent to the new design language that we have developed for Opel.” Sales of the Sports Tourer start in spring 2009.

Two new engines for the entire Insignia class also debut. The innovative 2.0-liter BiTurbo diesel with clean tech combustion system has 190 hp, and the downsized 1.6-liter gasoline turbo engine reaches 180 hp. These two new additions complement the wide range of seven motors – all Euro 5-certified – already on offer for the Insignia.

In addition, Opel will give the world its first glimpse at the new Insignia ecoFLEX, which offers environmentally friendly driving without compromising on performance. In contrast to competitors, it is not a low-end model, but rather a sophisticated, powerful automobile that blends driving dynamics with high fuel efficiency.

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