Opel targets executives

Signum ist ein Berliner. For a company playing strongly on its German roots and all that entails for build quality and solid motoring performance, Opel is keen to associate itself with the new radical architecture of the German capital which rests alongside strong historic foundations.

Hence the large Opel centre in the heart of the city, within walking distance from landmarks such as the Brandenburg gate, the Reichstag and Checkpoint Charlie.

So is the Signum a representative of the blend of tradition and modernity of the German city? Is it true to its strong lineage while moving with the needs of the times? Or is it a sugar doughnut?

It's yet another car claiming to invent its own segment. It targets those looking for a more spacious Vectra, with that little bit extra.

On the plus side, it feels strong and sturdy on the road, is remarkably quiet and the diesel 3-litre version we drove hummed along on the autobahns and secondary roads with remarkable responsiveness. Furthermore the ride was firm, which may prove "gripping" on Ireland's bumpy roads.

Our doubts focus on a potential market. Despite confident feedback from dealers, our general impression is that upper-end executives don't fancy hatchbacks. They look for saloons. If you have any doubt, think to how many Renault Vel Satis you've come across on your daily travels.

Yet there are some convincing words of wisdom coming from Opel's marketing maestros. They see trends, certainly on the continent if not on our own small island, towards greater flexibility in the upper end executive car.

They claim that company car drivers want traditional saloon luxury but with the space and carrying capacity of the likes of the SUVs. So the compromise is to blend the two, albeit without any hint of creating an off-roader.

So, with the hatchback format come the benefits: 550 litres with the seats unfolded and an impressive 1,100 litres with all the seats folded down.

The overall cabin is very similar to the Vectra, well finished and solid.

According to Gorazd Klopcic, Opel's marketing manager for Europe, the aim of the Signum is to "reawaken company car drivers in our brand". He is keen to stymie any suggestions that this is merely another Vectra bodystyle.

It has a longer wheelbase and shorter overhangs. In the rear, we have the by now customary Flexspace seating. The backbench can accommodate three, but it's really designed for two and the seats have the flexibility of the front passenger seat, moving back/forward/sideways and folding down if extra boot space is needed.

Standards in safety are high, with eight airbags. The Signum is also the first car to have active restraints as standard for rear seat passengers.

Prices will range from €33,120 for the 1.8-litre XE to €47,720 for the 3.2-litre SE.