With a move that took most by surprise, Opel has pulled the wraps off the new GT Concept.
The study follows in the footsteps of the 1965 Opel Experimental GT, shown in Geneva that year, and it’s a descendant of the Opel GT and Monza concept, described as “dynamic driving machine” that is “symbolized by the red signature line that splits the vehicle body horizontally and proportions it“.
Being a concept, its looks are understandably much more outlandish the current design philosophy in Opel’s lineup, and if it previews a future coupe we wouldn’t be surprised if it gets watered down, though it would be a nice surprise if Russelsheim “did a Lexus” and made as little changes as possible.
The large doors with integrated side windows are a key innovation of the new GT Concept. Access to the cabin is provided by pressing a touchpad for the electric doors, integrated in the red signature line on the roof. Another distinctive feature is the dual-monitor setup on the left- and right-hand side of the cabin, which works together with two cameras mounted behind the wheel arches, enhancing visibility.
Instead of going after the “big boys”, the study carries a 1.0-liter three-pot turbo engine, based on the one used in Adam, Corsa and Astra rated at 145PS (143hp) and 205Nm (151lb-ft) of torque.
Power is sent to the rear wheels and, having kept the weight at less than 1,000kg (2,205lbs,) the two-seater gets to 100 km/h (62 mph)from a standstill in less than 8 seconds and has a top speed of 215 km/h (134 mph). Not that impressive on paper, still respectable compared to other compact coupes.
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