11 September 2014

Opel's newest, smallest, to be named 'Karl'

Opel is to name a new 5-door city car 'Karl' in honour of one of the two sons of Adam Opel, founder of the company that bears his name, writes Brian Byrne.

Marginally smaller than the Adam, itself smaller than the new upcoming Corsa, the Karl will be the entry car in the carmaker's portfolio.

Adam Opel founded the original bicycle company that his sons Carl and Friedrich turned into an automobile company.

Meanwhile, the Rocks version (above) of the Adam will arrive in Ireland in October at a starting price of €18,995.It will have an electrically folding swing top canvas roof, increased height and distinctive body cladding.

Power will be from an all-new 1.0 DI turbo petrol engine. This all-aluminium three-cylinder unit delivers 115hp and comes with a new compact and lightweight six-speed manual gearbox.