Shanghai, June 18 (Gasgoo.com) Shanghai General Motors (GM) will put an Opel model into production in early 2009, sources from Shanghai GM said. It is predicted that the model, possibly the Opel Insignia which will come to the market in July, will carry a Buick label as the new generation model of Buick La Crosse.

Opel Insignia

Sources from Shanghai GM confirmed that Opel will be locally produced in China, but Shanghai GM will use Buick brand instead of Opel for the product. No detail about the model is disclosed. An international news agency reports Opel plans to make the global debut of the brand new Opel Insignia, the latest generation Opel Vectra, at the London auto show which is to be held on July 22. It is also reported that the model will be produced in the name of Buick La Crosse. The Opel Insignia is likely to be the first Opel model to be produced locally in China.

The European-style Insignia has both sedan and hatchback versions with seven engine options, of which four are petrol engines that generate an output ranging from 115hp to 260hp and three are direct-injection diesel engines generating a power from 110hp to 160hp. The model is also available in two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive options.

Both the sedan and hatchback Insignia will make their global debut at the upcoming London auto show.