Opel's investment in updating the Omega totaled some DM300 million, says GME. About a third of the MY1999 Omega's components (3000) have been replaced or redesigned. Exterior changes are subtle, with a new hood having prominent V-shaped contours and an integrated chromed grille. The sedan has a modified trunk lid. The interior redesign includes a new instrument panel with the navigation screen now sensibly placed alongside the instruments. In MY2000 form, the Omega has suspension improvements, and there is the option of a sports chassis with modified spring/damper settings and Michelin Sport tires. New to the range is a "Quick Power" brake booster for extra braking power in an emergency. Other safety systems include active head restraints, originally seen on Saab models.

The range includes a new entry-level 2.2-L 16-valve engine, with two counter-rotating balance shafts, developing 205 N•m (151 lb•ft) or torque at 4000 rpm. The car's top speed is more than 210 km/h (130 mph). The emissions-control system includes an additional, primary catalytic converter enabling the engine to meet Germany's D4 emissions standard. Other engines include gasoline 2.5- and 3.0-L V6s and two turbodiesels in four- and six-cylinder configurations.

Stuart Birch