GM prepares two sub-compact cars

Vauxhall/Opel is creating two sub-compact cars that will join the forthcoming Corsa by 2015.

The first supermini is pitched as a Mini rival and within is considered ‘fun and fashion’. This will sit above the Corsa but below the Astra in the European line-up. The second car is a budget vehicle based on an entirely different platform. This may effectively replace the current Agila in Vauxhall/Opel’s Euro line-up.

The upmarket supermini, along with the next Corsa are being designed and engineered in South Korea, GM DAT CEO Mike Arcamone said. The new structure underpins the all-new Aveo and has the ability to appear as an SUV, MPV and sedan. South Korea is also where GM will obtain a cost-effective platform for the budget city car.

Arcamone confessed that the new Mini competitor is almost totally engineered in Asia, with a small amount of contribution from Opel’s German engineering team in Rüsselsheim. The 2014 Corsa is at an advanced stage of development. The premium supermini styling, due in 2013, has yet to be signed off.

The premium supermini is likely to be produced in Europe, even though the bulk of design and engineering is taking place in South Korea. Arcamone said the next Corsa could also be manufactured in South Korea, although a decision is yet to be made.