Opel

German mainstream carmaker from Rüsselsheim since 1862

Stellantis brand offering practical passenger cars, EVs and light commercial vehicles with German engineering roots and accessible pricing.

GermanyGermanyAutomotivePassenger carsEVsCommercial vansFounded 1862

About Opel

Opel was founded in 1862 in Rüsselsheim, Germany, initially as a sewing-machine and later bicycle maker before becoming a major automobile manufacturer. After decades under General Motors and a period with PSA, Opel is now part of Stellantis, building hatchbacks, SUVs, electric models and vans for European buyers seeking practical German-branded transport.

Why consider Opel

  • Long German industrial heritage centred on Rüsselsheim
  • Practical passenger cars and commercial vans at accessible prices
  • Growing electric lineup on Stellantis platforms
  • Dense European dealer and service coverage
  • European mainstream alternative to US and Japanese volume brands

Alternatives

Comparable non-European brands

Ford

United StatesUnited States

Mainstream cars and vans

Chevy

United StatesUnited States

American mainstream

Toyota

JapanJapan

Reliable mass-market cars

Jeep

United StatesUnited States

SUV lifestyle

Brand comparison

BrandCountryPositioningMain categoryPrice level
OpelGermanyGermanyGerman practical mainstreamCarsAccessible to mid-range
VolkswagenGermanyGermanyVolume German qualityCarsMid-range
PeugeotFranceFranceStylish French mainstreamCarsMid-range

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Brand details

Brand ownership

  1. Stellantis
  2. Opel

Market presence

  • Authorized Opel dealers across Europe
  • Commercial vehicle partner network
  • Official configurator and online tools
  • Certified pre-owned programmes
  • Fleet and business sales channels

Brand timeline

  1. 1862Adam Opel founds the company in Rüsselsheim
  2. 1899Opel begins automobile production
  3. 1929General Motors acquires Opel
  4. 2017Sold by GM to Groupe PSA
  5. TodayGerman Stellantis brand with expanding EV and van range