As families gear up for traditional Easter egg hunts, Opel offers a twist on the classic search for surprises. Rather than searching through gardens for chocolate bunnies, why not embark on a unique treasure hunt—one that takes place inside the brand-new Opel Grandland? Beyond its bold design and cutting-edge technology, Opel’s flagship SUV carries a delightful secret: a legacy of miniature sharks subtly integrated throughout the vehicle’s interior.
A Tradition Born from Creativity
What began nearly two decades ago as a spontaneous sketch has evolved into an iconic hallmark of Opel design. The story dates back to 2004, when Opel designer Dietmar Finger was drafting the ribbed structure of the Corsa D’s glove box. His son peered over his shoulder and innocently asked, “Why don’t you just draw a shark?” That moment of playful curiosity sparked a creative movement. The sketch was shown to Corsa Chief Designer Niels Loeb, who immediately approved the idea—and thus, the very first Opel shark swam into production.
Since then, sharks have become an Opel signature—hidden in plain sight, tucked inside various parts of the interior. The Zafira was next, followed by the ADAM, and soon the sharks were spotted across the Opel range, from the Astra to the new Grandland. Today, it’s tradition for Opel’s interior design leads to incorporate at least one shark into every new model—its location kept secret even from top executives.
Inside the New Grandland: Style, Tech—and Sharks
The new Opel Grandland isn’t just a family-friendly SUV—it’s a symbol of Opel’s “Greenovation” philosophy, offering electrified powertrains, premium comfort, and intelligent features. Highlights include:
Intelli-Lux® HD Matrix Headlights: Adaptive, glare-free lighting that adjusts to every road condition.
Intelli-Seat® Comfort: Ergonomically designed seats as standard, making long drives a pleasure.
Translucent Pixel Box: A clever touch in the center console, marrying function with futuristic design.
Drive Modes Galore: Whether it’s urban cruising, eco-efficiency or tackling sand and slippery terrain—there’s a drive mode for it.
And then there are the sharks. Hidden throughout the vehicle’s interior—perhaps under trays, near wireless charging compartments, or even beneath lids—these playful design elements turn every drive into an adventure. The Grandland takes the shark game to a new level, with several of the creatures scattered in creative and unexpected places.
A Design Detail That Inspires Joy
Karim Giordimaina, Opel’s Design Director, says it best:
“The sharks have become iconic among our community. They’re a testament to the meticulous attention our designers pay to even the smallest detail. Many customers now look forward to discovering them—it’s an emotional connection, large or small.”
Indeed, it’s this blend of utility and personality that sets the Grandland apart. The inclusion of sharks might be subtle, but it represents a broader philosophy: to inspire joy, curiosity, and a sense of discovery in every journey.
What’s Next: The Shark Story Continues
Opel isn’t done yet. The new Opel Frontera, set to hit the roads soon, will continue this beloved tradition, with new sharks ready to be discovered. And future Opel models will also carry forward the legacy—sometimes with more visibility, other times hidden in unexpected places, always keeping fans guessing.
Fun Facts: The Opel Sharks Story
The First Shark: Appeared in the Corsa D (2006), inspired by a designer’s son.
Sharks in Every Model: Since the Zafira, every Opel vehicle has included at least one shark.
Designer’s Ritual: It’s now tradition for Opel’s interior designers to include a shark in each new model—secretly!
Hunting for Fun: Shark placements are so subtle that even Opel management often don’t know where they’re hidden.
Family Bonding: The shark hunt has become a family activity for many Opel owners—especially during test drives.
Future Sightings: Look out for sharks in the upcoming Opel Frontera and other models down the line.
Whether you’re a long-time Opel enthusiast or discovering the brand for the first time, the Grandland promises more than just a drive it delivers a story, a smile, and a surprise around every corner. And if you look closely enough, you just might find a shark or two along the way.
