Opel STX Concept previews EV wagon future
Opel’s STX Concept offers a glimpse of the next generation of aerodynamic electric wagonsThe News
One of the unforeseen outcomes of the shift to electrification has been the revival of the station wagon. Even here in SUV-loving Australia, the ranks of battery-powered, low-slung long roofs are swelling, but in Europe they are still big fans of the humble wagon – or Estate, or Tourer, depending on nationality – and are preparing for the next generation. Opel’s vision of the future five-door is the Sports Tourer eXperimental, or STX Concept for short, unveiled ahead of the 2026 Paris Motor Show.
The Key Details
- Opel STX Concept is the brand’s vision of the future wagon
- Key design elements will appear on next-generation Opel models
- Focus on aerodynamic efficiency to improve driving range
The Finer Details
Opel has a long history with the station wagon. In 1953, it introduced the Olympia Rekord Caravan, widely held to be the first European station wagon, and it has continued to champion the concept ever since, right up to today’s Astra Sports Tourer.
On the eve of the 2026 Paris Motor Show, it has now unveiled its vision of the wagon of the future, the Sports Tourer eXperimental, or STX for short. This will also influence the design of future Opel models, in particular the ‘Vizor’, or front end, with its bold new light signatures.
One of the STX’s most dramatic features is the reverse-sloping rear, more akin to a breadvan than a traditional wagon, but the design has the happy consequence of also increasing load capacity.
Aerodynamics were a key focus for the Opel design team, starting with the tri-section 22-inch wheels and including active elements at the rear.
At certain speeds, blue-coloured diffusers and vertical bumper elements behind the rear wheels extend to increase stability and reduce drag, allowing the STX to slip through the air at more than 200km/h.
The Road Ahead
While the eventual production iteration of the Opel STX Concept, whatever form it may take, will not reach Australia due to the brand’s lack of presence here, those after an electrified station wagon will soon have a reasonable amount of choice, depending on budget.
The BYD Seal 6 Premium Touring is a plug-in hybrid costing $39,990 plus on-road costs (ORCs), while the all-electric Zeekr 7GT is expected to start around $55,000.
New brand Avatr has confirmed its 06T wagon will launch in Australia in H2 2027, and luxury brand Denza will also introduce the Z9 GT with up to 850kW.
A key benefit of choosing an electric wagon over an equivalent SUV is the greater driving range thanks to the improved aerodynamics of the lower body.
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