- Opel has embedded sharks across nearly every model in its current lineup.
- Shark locations include the tailgate hinges and center console insert.
- Future Opel vehicles will continue carrying on the hidden shark tradition.
Automotive Easter eggs are becoming more common than they used to. After Fiat tucked hidden gems into the Grande Panda, Volkswagen did the same with the ID. Buzz, Opel has entered the hunt.
The German brand has confirmed that the recently facelifted Opel Astra hatchback and estate each hide no fewer than ten sharks. They are scattered throughout the cabin, challenging passengers to a scavenger hunt during a long road trip or a deep clean. Well, at least for the first time, because how many people are really going to keep track after they’ve found the third one and moved on with their lives?
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Opel is keeping the exact locations of every predator under wraps, but it has shared a few examples, including the tailgate hinges, the rubber insert inside the center console storage cubby, the glovebox, and the coat or bag hangers.
The design team has embedded these sharks into the grain of the vehicle’s plastics, continuing a tradition that dates back two decades.
How Did It Start?
Believe it or not, the idea did not come from a meeting in Opel’s marketing department, but from a small, personal moment.
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Back in 2004, Opel designer Dietmar Finger was working from home on a glovebox sketch for the Corsa D. His son noticed the ribs on the outer panel and asked, “Why don’t you just draw a shark?” The next day, the chief designer approved the idea, and the small shark made its way into production.
After the Corsa, the sea creatures gradually spread across other Opel models, including the Zafira, Adam, Astra, Crossland, Grandland, Frontera, and Mokka. The number varies by model, and the sharks can appear in both interior and exterior.
The Stellantis brand remains committed to the “shark story” and will continue adding mini predators on future vehicles. Speaking of which, Opel will soon unveil the new Corsa GSE, a fully electric hot hatchback for the subcompact segment.
