Opel planning Dacia-like range of low-cost models - report

2015 Vauxhall Corsa

Targeting customers who used to buy Chevrolet models

A new report indicates Opel is analyzing the prospects of launching a series of low-end models in Europe.

After Volkswagen, it now seems Opel wants to imitate Renault's success with its Dacia sub-brand of low-cost models as Automotive News is citing a source close to Rüsselsheim who says Opel is considering a range of entry-level cars. It is believed these vehicles will target customers who up until now used to buy Chevrolets, a brand which will be phased out from Europe by the end of 2015.

The decision has apparently been a long time in the making and now the management is looking for ways to expand Opel's lineup. It's only one of the plans part of a more extensive rethink of Opel's presence in Europe, turning responsibility of the brand to a newly established organizational entity called Opel Group GmbH which has approximately 100 employees. The Opel Group will also be responsible for Cadillac's European activity as well as Chevrolet's operations in Russia.

If the low-cost sub-range plan will eventually be green-lighted, expect the first models to come out before the end of the decade.