2026 World Motor Show – Opel STX Concept: The station wagon isn’t dead

With the STX concept, Opel claims to showcase “its vision of tomorrow’s station wagon.” The design study also provides some clues about the next generation of the Astra.

While Opel already offers the Mokka, Frontera, and Grandland, it announced a few months ago the addition of another SUV to its lineup (based on China’s Leapmotor). Fortunately, for those who don’t want this type of vehicle (or are tired of them), the brand hasn’t forgotten traditional car designs.

With the STX (Sports Tourer eXperimental) concept unveiled at the World Motor Show, Opel reaffirms its commitment to the station wagon segment. The manufacturer emphasizes that it was a pioneer of this type of vehicle in Europe, claiming to have “significantly contributed to its popularity.” It launched the Olympia Rekord Caravan in 1953, followed by models such as the Kadett Caravan and many others, up to the current Astra Sports Tourer.

The STX seems to provide clues about the future Astra, which will likely still be available as a station wagon, alongside a compact version that might adopt a less conventional design. The brand continues to evolve its design language, particularly the “Vizor” — an element that combines headlights with the grille. Contrary to the trend toward thinner designs, the STX’s Vizor appears more robust facing the road. The new lighting signature features slats that gradually fade toward the center, with an illuminated logo integrated into the body. The concept of a luminous compass is retained.

A surprising vertical rear end

It is particularly highlighted at the rear, especially since the trunk features a vertical design. Is this a return to the wheel-mounted, Norman-style trunk? In any case, it helps maximize space in the cargo area. The windshield follows the contour of a body that narrows above broad shoulders. On the rear fender, strips extend from the side windows and continue into the tip of the tailgate.

The STX is electric, but Opel does not provide any technical details; we only know it has four-wheel drive and a top speed exceeding 200 km/h. The brand aims to show that “in the era of electric vehicles, efficiency, performance, and driving pleasure can go hand in hand.” To achieve efficiency, it relies on a carefully designed aerodynamics system, including movable elements such as blue diffusers or vertical components behind the wheels. The wheels’ rims (22 inches) have also been optimized.