Opel VRT Calculator
Calculate VRT for your Opel — German engineering with competitive VRT rates across the range.
Opel Import Value
Opel offers solid value for Irish imports. Now part of the Stellantis group, Opel has modernised its range with efficient turbo petrol engines and full electric options that keep VRT manageable. The Corsa and Astra remain popular choices for Irish buyers looking for dependable German engineering at sensible prices. Opel's pricing structure means that even at higher VRT bands, the absolute euro amount stays competitive compared to premium German brands.
Opel VRT Sweet Spots
- Corsa 1.2 Turbo: Compact efficiency champion with low emissions
- Astra 1.2 Turbo: Family hatchback with strong VRT value
- Mokka 1.2 Turbo: Stylish compact SUV with reasonable VRT
- Comet-e Electric: Zero-emission driving with full VRT relief
Opel Corsa 1.2 Turbo (2021)
€16,000 OMSP | 110g CO₂
VRT: €2,240 (14% rate)
Opel Comet-e (2023)
€28,000 OMSP | 0g CO₂
VRT: €1,400 (With electric relief)
Opel Models and VRT Profiles
Opel imports to Ireland have shifted decisively toward the turbo petrol engines, and the numbers back that choice up. The 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo is a surprisingly refined engine that delivers competitive CO2 figures across the Corsa, Astra, and Mokka range. That translates directly into lower VRT bills compared to the older diesel Opel models.
VRT by Opel Model
- Corsa 1.2 Turbo (110g CO2): The 14% band applies. A 2021 Corsa at 16,000 OMSP costs about 2,240 in VRT, making it one of the cheapest imports in the supermini class.
- Astra 1.2 Turbo (125g CO2): Moves up to 16%. A 2021 Astra at 22,000 works out at roughly 3,520 in VRT. The Astra is the most imported Opel and this predictable VRT makes it easy to budget.
- Mokka 1.2 Turbo (130g CO2): Also in the 16% band. A 2021 Mokka at 24,000 OMSP gives a VRT of about 3,840. The sharp new styling makes it a popular compact SUV import.
- Grandland 1.2 Turbo (140g CO2): Hits the 16% band but sits close to the 20% threshold. A 2021 Grandland at 28,000 OMSP comes to roughly 4,480 in VRT.
- Comet-e (0g CO2): Electric relief drops VRT to around 5%. A 2023 Comet-e at 28,000 OMSP costs about 1,400 in VRT.
The Diesel Question
Older Opel diesel models, particularly the Astra 1.6 CDTi and Insignia 2.0 CDTi, were once staples of the Irish import market. But with diesel demand cooling and VRT rates climbing for higher CO2 bands, the 1.2 turbo petrol now offers better value across the board. That said, the Astra 1.5 Diesel in the 2019-plus range is still a solid motorway cruiser. If you do go for a diesel Opel, aim for a 2019 or newer model with a properly serviced DPF filter. The Insignia 2.0 CDTi was a favourite for high-mileage commuters, but factor in the NOx levy when calculating your total cost.
Opel Models and Their VRT Costs in Ireland
Not every Opel costs the same to import. The VRT bill depends on engine choice, fuel type, and how much CO2 the car produces. Some Opel models land in low VRT bands and cost very little to register. Others, particularly older diesels or the larger Insignia, will cost more. Here is what you are actually looking at with the most common Opel imports.
Corsa
The Corsa has been Ireland's favourite Opel for years and it remains a strong import choice. The 1.2 turbo petrol versions sit in the 14 to 16 percent VRT bands depending on the exact year and spec. A 2020 Corsa 1.2 Turbo with 110g/km CO2 at an OMSP of around 16,000 will cost roughly 2,240 in VRT. The diesel Corsa 1.5 CDTi does slightly worse on CO2, landing around 120g/km, which keeps it in the 14 percent band, but the NOx levy adds an extra 600 to 900. The Corsa-e electric version drops to zero CO2 and qualifies for the full EV relief. At 24,000 OMSP the Corsa-e costs about 1,200 in VRT, which is exceptionally low.
Astra
The Astra is the most imported Opel in Ireland and the range of engine options means you can tailor your VRT exposure. The 1.2 Turbo petrol with 125g/km CO2 sits in the 16 percent band. A 2021 Astra at 22,000 OMSP costs about 3,520 in VRT. The 1.5 Diesel Astra produces around 130g/km, also in the 16 percent band, but the NOx levy of 600 to 1,200 pushes the total tax higher. The Astra PHEV hybrid is worth a look because it drops CO2 to around 30g/km, putting it in the 14 percent band with additional hybrid relief. The Astra GSe performance hybrid is more expensive but offers strong performance with reasonable VRT.
Mokka
The Mokka was completely redesigned in 2021 and its sharp new look has made it a popular compact SUV import. The 1.2 Turbo petrol with 130g/km CO2 sits in the 16 percent band. A 2021 Mokka at 24,000 OMSP costs roughly 3,840 in VRT. The Mokka-e electric version with zero CO2 qualifies for the full EV relief, dropping the effective rate to 5 percent and the VRT to about 1,200 on a 24,000 car. The Mokka is one of the more stylish compact SUVs on Irish roads and the electric version makes strong financial sense for VRT-conscious buyers.
Grandland
The Grandland is Opel's family-sized SUV and it competes with the Nissan Qashqai and Ford Kuga. The 1.2 Turbo petrol produces around 140g/km CO2, putting it in the 16 percent band but very close to the 20 percent threshold. A 2021 Grandland at 28,000 OMSP costs about 4,480 in VRT. The 1.5 Diesel Grandland with 150g/km pushes into the 20 percent band, with VRT around 5,600 plus a NOx levy of 800 to 1,500. The Grandland Hybrid with its plug-in powertrain drops CO2 significantly to around 35g/km, which puts it in the 14 percent band with hybrid relief. A 2021 Grandland Hybrid at 32,000 OMSP would have a VRT of about 2,240 after relief.
Crossland
The Crossland is Opel's smaller SUV offering and sits below the Mokka in size and price. It is a practical city SUV with a focus on value. The 1.2 Turbo petrol Crossland produces around 115g/km CO2, putting it in the 14 percent band. A 2021 Crossland at 20,000 OMSP would cost roughly 2,800 in VRT. The Crossland is one of the more affordable Opel models to import, and its modest CO2 emissions mean a favourable VRT treatment. It is a good option for buyers who want an SUV-style car without the VRT penalty of larger models.
Insignia
The Insignia is Opel's large saloon and estate offering. It was popular with Irish buyers who needed a comfortable motorway cruiser, particularly the 2.0 CDTi diesel models. The Insignia 2.0 CDTi produces around 160g/km CO2, putting it in the 24 percent band. A 2019 Insignia at 25,000 OMSP would cost roughly 6,000 in VRT, plus a NOx levy of 1,000 to 1,800. The petrol Insignia 1.5 Turbo at 145g/km CO2 sits in the 20 percent band, with VRT around 5,000 on a 25,000 car. The Insignia has been discontinued in many markets, so supply is limited, but a good example can still offer strong value if the VRT maths works for you.
Opel's Transition to Electric
Opel has committed to becoming a fully electric brand in Europe by 2028, which puts it ahead of many competitors in terms of EV transition. That matters for VRT because every electric Opel you import gets the full 50 percent VRT relief, bringing the effective rate down to around 5 percent. The gap between the VRT on an electric Opel and a petrol Opel is substantial, and it is only going to widen as CO2-based bands get tighter.
Comet-e
The Comet-e is Opel's city car built on the same platform as the Citroen Ami. It is a compact two-seater quadricycle with a 5.5kWh battery and a range of about 75 kilometres. Its tiny size and zero CO2 emissions make it the absolute cheapest Opel to register for VRT. At an OMSP of around 12,000, the VRT at the 5 percent effective rate is just 600. The Comet-e is not a motorway car, but for urban use and as a second car, it is hard to beat on total running costs. The annual road tax is also minimal at 120 euros.
Corsa-e
The Corsa-e is the electric version of Ireland's favourite Opel. It uses a 50kWh battery with a range of around 350 kilometres, which is competitive for the supermini segment. With zero CO2 emissions, the Corsa-e qualifies for the full EV relief. A 2021 Corsa-e at 24,000 OMSP has a VRT of about 1,200. That is less than half what a petrol Corsa 1.2 Turbo costs in VRT. The Corsa-e is practical enough for daily commuting and occasional longer trips, and the VRT saving makes the higher purchase price easier to justify.
Mokka-e
The Mokka-e shares its powertrain with the Corsa-e but in a more stylish SUV body. The range is similar at about 340 kilometres and the zero CO2 means the same 5 percent effective VRT rate applies. A 2021 Mokka-e at 28,000 OMSP costs about 1,400 in VRT. The Mokka-e is one of the best-looking small electric SUVs on the market and the combination of sharp design, reasonable range, and low VRT makes it a compelling option for Irish importers who want an electric car with some personality.
Opel has announced that the Astra-e and Grandland-e are on the way as part of its electric push. These will use the Stellantis group's larger battery platform and offer ranges of 400 kilometres or more. When they become available in the UK used market, they will likely be popular Irish imports because of the favourable VRT treatment for electric vehicles. The Astra-e in particular could be a strong contender for families who want an electric estate or hatchback with reasonable VRT.
Importing an Opel from the UK
Opel imports from the UK are common in Ireland because both markets are right-hand drive and share similar specifications. The UK has a strong supply of used Opels, particularly Corsas and Astras, and prices can be lower than what you would pay in the Irish market. But post-Brexit costs mean you need to do the full financial calculation before committing.
The Process
You start by finding the car through a UK dealer or private seller. Opels sold in the UK were branded as Vauxhall, but they are mechanically identical to the Opel versions sold in Ireland. A Vauxhall Corsa is the same car as an Opel Corsa, and Revenue treats them identically for VRT purposes. Once you buy the car, you arrange shipping through a company operating between Holyhead and Dublin or Rosslare. Shipping typically costs between 300 and 800 euro.
After the car arrives, you have 30 days to register it with Revenue. Bring the UK V5C document, your proof of purchase, ID, proof of address, and insurance. Revenue will assess the OMSP based on their database of Vauxhall and Opel models. They do not use the price you paid, so if you got a bargain you will not save on VRT. The OMSP is adjusted for age using the standard depreciation scale: 10 percent per year up to 50 percent for cars over five years old.
Customs and VAT
Since Brexit, importing from the UK adds customs duty at 10 percent of the vehicle purchase price, plus VAT at 23 percent on the combined value of the car plus customs duty. On a 16,000 Corsa that works out at 1,600 in customs duty and roughly 4,048 in VAT. You also pay VRT on top of that. The total additional cost on a Corsa import is typically between 7,000 and 10,000 euro depending on the model and value.
For an Astra at 20,000 in the UK, the all-in cost including customs, VAT, shipping, and VRT could easily reach 32,000 or more. You need to compare that against what a similar Astra costs in the Irish market before you commit. The gap has narrowed significantly since Brexit, but for the right car at the right price, there is still money to be saved.
What to Watch For
Check the service history of the Opel carefully. Vauxhall service intervals in the UK can differ slightly from Opel recommendations in Ireland. Make sure the timing belt has been changed on any petrol engine at the correct interval. The 1.2 turbo petrol engines in the Corsa and Astra have a cambelt that needs replacing every six years or 100,000 kilometres. If the belt fails, the engine is often a write-off. Also check the DPF on any diesel model. A Vauxhall dealer in the UK can provide a full service record if the car has been dealer-serviced throughout its life.
Opel VRT Cost Examples
Here are three worked examples showing how VRT adds up on common Opel imports. These use the current CO2 bands and assume standard age depreciation rules. Your actual VRT may differ slightly based on Revenue's valuation of your specific car.
Example 1 - Corsa 1.2 Turbo (2021)
You find a 2021 Corsa 1.2 Turbo in the UK priced at 14,000. The car has 110g/km CO2, which puts it in the 14 percent VRT band. The OMSP as assessed by Revenue comes in at 16,000. The car is two years old, so a 10 percent age depreciation is applied, bringing the adjusted value to 14,400. The VRT at 14 percent is 2,016. Add customs duty of 1,400, VAT of about 3,542, shipping of 500, and the total additional costs come to roughly 7,458. The all-in cost is about 21,458 for a car that would sell for around 22,000 to 24,000 in the Irish market. A modest saving, but the UK car often has a higher spec or lower mileage that makes the import worthwhile.
Example 2 - Astra 1.2 Turbo (2021)
A 2021 Astra 1.2 Turbo GS Line at 18,000 from a UK dealer. The CO2 is 125g/km, which lands in the 16 percent band. Revenue's OMSP assessment comes in at 22,000. At two years old, the age depreciation is 10 percent, bringing the adjusted value to 19,800. The VRT at 16 percent is 3,168. Customs duty is 1,800, VAT is about 4,554, and shipping is 500. Total additional costs come to roughly 10,022. All-in cost is about 28,022. Compare that to a similar Astra in the Irish market at around 29,000 to 31,000, and you save roughly 1,000 to 3,000 by importing.
Example 3 - Mokka-e Electric (2022)
A 2022 Mokka-e in SRi trim at 24,000 from a UK dealer. The CO2 is 0g/km, so the EV relief applies, reducing the effective VRT rate to 5 percent. Revenue's OMSP is assessed at 28,000. At one year old the age depreciation is 10 percent, so the adjusted value is 25,200. The VRT at 5 percent is 1,260. Customs duty is 2,400, VAT is about 6,072, and shipping is 600. Total additional costs are around 10,332. The all-in price is 34,332. A Mokka-e in Ireland typically sells for 35,000 to 38,000, so you could save 2,000 to 4,000 by importing. The electric VRT relief is the key factor keeping the costs reasonable on this import.
These examples are estimates. Revenue's OMSP database is updated regularly and your specific car may be valued differently. Use our calculator above to get a more precise figure for your exact model and year.
Opel Diesel vs Petrol VRT Comparison
Opel has been shifting its engine lineup away from diesel and toward turbo petrol and electric. The 1.2 Turbo petrol is now the core engine across the Corsa, Astra, Mokka, and Grandland range. The diesel options have been progressively phased out, but plenty of used diesel Opels still come up for import from the UK. Understanding the VRT difference between the two fuel types helps you make the right choice.
An Opel Corsa 1.2 Turbo petrol produces around 110g/km CO2, putting it in the 14 percent VRT band. The Corsa 1.5 CDTi diesel produces about 120g/km, also in the 14 percent band. On a car valued at 16,000 OMSP, both have a VRT of roughly 2,240 before age relief. However, the diesel Corsa attracts a NOx levy of 600 to 900, while the petrol Corsa has none. That means the petrol Corsa saves you 600 to 900 on the total tax bill. The petrol also has lower annual road tax at 190 euros compared to the diesel's 270 euros.
The gap widens on larger models. The Opel Astra 1.2 Turbo petrol produces around 125g/km CO2, sitting in the 16 percent band. The Astra 1.5 CDTi diesel produces about 130g/km, also in the 16 percent band. On a car at 22,000 OMSP, the petrol Astra has a VRT of 3,520, while the diesel also costs 3,520. But the diesel NOx levy of 800 to 1,200 pushes the total to 4,320 to 4,720. That is 800 to 1,200 more than the petrol. Over a five-year ownership period, the diesel also costs more in annual road tax, roughly 400 extra total. The petrol Astra saves you about 1,200 to 1,600 in tax over the ownership period. Unless you are covering over 25,000 kilometres a year, the petrol Opel is the better financial choice.
Best Opel Models for VRT Value in 2026
The Opel range offers some strong VRT-efficient models, particularly the smaller 1.2 Turbo petrol engines and the growing electric lineup. Opel's competitive pricing in the used market means that even where the VRT percentage rate is moderate, the absolute cost in euros is manageable. Here are the Opel models that currently offer the best balance of purchase price, VRT cost, and long-term value.
The Opel Corsa 1.2 Turbo is the VRT value king in the Opel range. With CO2 emissions as low as 110g/km, it sits in the 14 percent VRT band. A 2021 Corsa 1.2 Turbo with an OMSP of 16,000 would cost roughly 2,240 in VRT before age relief. The Corsa is cheap to insure, fuel-efficient, and parts are widely available in Ireland through the Opel dealer network and breakers yards. For a first-time import or a budget-conscious buyer, the Corsa offers the lowest total cost of any Opel import.
The Opel Mokka 1.2 Turbo is the best compact SUV option for VRT efficiency. With CO2 around 130g/km, it sits in the 16 percent band. A 2021 Mokka 1.2 Turbo with an OMSP of 24,000 would cost roughly 3,840 in VRT before age relief. The Mokka's stylish redesign has made it popular in Ireland, and the 1.2 Turbo engine delivers adequate performance with reasonable fuel economy. The Mokka-e electric version is even better from a VRT perspective, with zero emissions and an effective rate of 5 percent, giving a VRT of about 1,200 on a 24,000 car.
The Opel Comet-e is the ultimate low-VRT Opel for urban use. As a light quadricycle with zero emissions, it attracts the minimum VRT. At 12,000 OMSP the VRT is just 600. The Comet-e is not for everyone - it is a two-seater with limited range and a top speed of 45 km/h - but for city dwellers who need a second car for short trips, it is the cheapest Opel to register and run. The annual road tax is only 120 euros and the electricity cost is negligible. If your driving is mostly urban and you rarely need to carry passengers, the Comet-e is the most VRT-efficient vehicle you can buy.
Opel VRT FAQs
How is VRT calculated on an Opel import?
VRT on an Opel is calculated using the standard Irish system based on CO2 emissions and the Open Market Selling Price as assessed by Revenue. Opel shares platforms with other Stellantis brands, so Revenue has good data on Opel pricing through comparison with Vauxhall models from the UK market. The OMSP is typically accurate and predictable for common models like the Corsa and Astra.
Revenue starts by setting the OMSP based on the car's make, model, engine, year, mileage, and condition. For Opel models, the OMSP is usually close to the actual market price because there are plenty of comparable cars in the Irish and UK markets. After setting the OMSP, Revenue applies age-related depreciation. The standard scale applies: under 1 year gets 0 percent, 1 to 2 years gets 10 percent, 2 to 3 years gets 20 percent, 3 to 4 years gets 30 percent, 4 to 5 years gets 40 percent, and over 5 years gets 50 percent. The adjusted value is then multiplied by the VRT rate based on CO2 emissions.
The VRT rate bands for Opel imports are:
- 0 to 120g/km: 14 percent (Corsa 1.2 Turbo, Corsa 1.5 CDTi, Crossland 1.2 Turbo)
- 121 to 140g/km: 16 percent (Astra 1.2 Turbo, Mokka 1.2 Turbo, Grandland 1.2 Turbo)
- 141 to 155g/km: 20 percent (Grandland 1.5 Diesel, Insignia 1.5 Turbo)
- 156 to 170g/km: 24 percent (Insignia 2.0 CDTi)
- 171 to 190g/km: 28 percent (Astra GSe performance)
- 191 to 225g/km: 32 percent (rare performance models)
- Over 225g/km: 37 percent (Opel VXR models)
Electric Opel models like the Corsa-e, Mokka-e, and Comet-e qualify for the 50 percent EV relief, bringing the effective rate down to around 5 percent. This is the single biggest VRT-saving option in the Opel range.
Which Opel model has the lowest VRT?
The Opel model with the lowest VRT is the Comet-e, which qualifies for the full EV relief and attracts an effective rate of around 5 percent. A 2023 Comet-e at 12,000 OMSP would cost roughly 600 in VRT. Among petrol models, the Corsa 1.2 Turbo has the lowest VRT, with CO2 around 110g/km putting it in the 14 percent band. A 2021 Corsa at 16,000 OMSP would cost about 2,240 in VRT before age relief.
The Corsa is the most VRT-efficient combustion Opel and one of the cheapest cars to import to Ireland overall. The combination of low OMSP, low CO2 emissions, and the 14 percent VRT rate means your total tax bill is minimal. The Corsa also has low annual road tax at about 190 euros per year. The 1.2 Turbo engine returns about 50 miles per gallon in real-world driving.
The Crossland 1.2 Turbo is another strong contender. With CO2 around 115g/km, it also qualifies for the 14 percent band. A 2021 Crossland at 20,000 OMSP would cost about 2,800 in VRT. The Crossland offers more interior space than the Corsa in a slightly larger body, making it a good option for buyers who need more practicality but want to keep VRT low.
Is the Opel Comet-e electric cheaper for VRT?
Yes, the Opel Comet-e is significantly cheaper for VRT than any petrol or diesel Opel. Because it produces zero CO2 emissions, it qualifies for the full 50 percent electric vehicle VRT relief, reducing the effective VRT rate to around 5 percent. The Comet-e is also classified as a light quadricycle in some cases, which can further reduce the OMSP assessment. At a typical OMSP of 12,000 euro, the VRT works out at roughly 600 euro. That is the lowest VRT of any Opel model.
The Comet-e is a compact two-seater designed primarily for urban use. It has a 5.5kWh battery and a range of about 75 kilometres, making it suitable for city commuting, school runs, and short shopping trips. The top speed is limited to 45 km/h, so it is not suitable for motorway driving. But within the city, it is incredibly cheap to run. The electricity cost is roughly 1 to 2 euro per full charge, and the annual road tax is only 120 euro. The insurance group is also very low, typically group 1 or 2.
Compared to a petrol Corsa at 2,240 in VRT, the Comet-e saves you about 1,640 in VRT alone. Over four years of ownership, the combined savings from VRT, road tax, fuel, and lower maintenance could total 4,000 to 5,000 euro. The Comet-e is a niche vehicle, but if your lifestyle fits its limitations, it is the cheapest Opel to own and operate.
What is the NOx levy on Opel diesel imports?
The NOx levy is an additional charge applied to diesel vehicles in Ireland, calculated based on the vehicle's nitrogen oxide emissions. It is separate from the CO2-based VRT and can add between 500 and 2,400 to your total bill depending on the age and emissions standard of your Opel diesel engine. This levy has become a significant factor in the decision to import diesel Opels, particularly older Astra and Insignia CDTi models.
Opel's CDTi diesel engines have evolved through several emissions standards. The older 1.6 and 2.0 CDTi engines found in pre-2015 Astra and Insignia models typically met Euro 5 standards and produce relatively high NOx emissions. These cars can attract a NOx levy of 1,500 to 2,400 depending on the exact engine and year. The 2015 to 2019 Euro 6 CDTi engines improved significantly but still produce enough NOx to attract a levy of 800 to 1,500. The latest 1.5 CDTi diesel engines, introduced from around 2019 onwards, produce the lowest NOx and attract a levy of 500 to 900.
The NOx levy is charged at the time of VRT payment and is non-negotiable. For a 2018 Astra 1.5 CDTi with a CO2-based VRT of 3,520 and a NOx levy of 1,200, your total tax payment is 4,720. That is an extra 34 percent on top of the standard VRT. When deciding between a diesel and petrol Opel, factor the NOx levy into the comparison. The petrol 1.2 Turbo Astra has no NOx levy and a similar VRT of 3,520. The total tax saving for the petrol is 1,200, which is significant on a car in this price range. Unless you do very high mileage, the petrol Opel is the more tax-efficient choice.
Can I challenge the OMSP on my Opel import?
Yes, you can challenge the OMSP that Revenue assigns to your Opel. Opel and Vauxhall models share a common OMSP database in Revenue's system because they are mechanically identical cars. The database is well-calibrated for common models like the Corsa and Astra, but challenges on these models are still worth attempting if you have strong evidence that the valuation is too high.
The most promising scenarios for a successful OMSP challenge on an Opel involve high-mileage cars or models with unusual specifications. Revenue's database uses average mileage assumptions, so an Astra with 100,000 kilometres at three years old should have a lower OMSP than the standard 60,000 kilometre valuation. Similarly, an Opel with a basic trim level and no optional extras may have a lower market value than the standard database figure. A Corsa with a manual gearbox and cloth seats is worth less than the average spec that Revenue assumes.
Collect Irish market listings from DoneDeal and Carzone showing similar Opel models at prices below Revenue's OMSP. Focus on cars with the same model, engine, year, and mileage range. At least five to eight listings give you a solid evidence base. Submit your evidence at the VRT appointment or through Revenue's online portal. For a Corsa at 16,000 OMSP and 14 percent VRT rate, a successful challenge reducing the OMSP by 1,500 saves you 210. For an Astra at 22,000 OMSP and 16 percent rate, a 2,000 reduction saves 320. The savings are not huge on Opel models, but the process is free and takes minimal effort, so it is always worth trying if you have evidence.
Is it cheaper to import an Opel or buy one in Ireland?
Importing an Opel from the UK used to offer noticeable savings compared to buying in Ireland, but the gap has narrowed since Brexit added customs duty and VAT. For most Opel models, the saving is now 1,500 to 3,500, which is worthwhile but not as dramatic as it once was. The saving varies by model, with higher-value models like the Grandland and Mokka offering larger savings than entry-level models like the Corsa.
A 2021 Opel Corsa 1.2 Turbo that costs 14,000 in the UK provides a realistic example. Revenue sets the OMSP at 16,000. The VRT at 14 percent with 20 percent age depreciation comes to 1,792. Customs duty at 10 percent is 1,400, and VAT at 23 percent on the duty-inclusive value is about 3,542. Shipping adds roughly 500. Your total additional costs are about 7,234, and the all-in price is 21,234. A similar Corsa from an Irish dealer would cost around 22,000 to 24,000. You save about 1,000 to 3,000 by importing.
A 2021 Opel Grandland 1.2 Turbo at 22,000 in the UK gives an all-in cost of about 33,500 after VRT, duty, VAT, and shipping. An Irish dealer would sell the same car for about 35,000 to 37,000. The saving of 1,500 to 3,500 is still worthwhile. The key is to check Irish prices before you commit, because special offers from Irish dealers can narrow the gap. Our calculator above will give you a precise VRT estimate for your specific Opel model and allow you to compare the total import cost against local market prices.
What documents do I need to import an Opel from the UK?
Importing an Opel from the UK requires the same standard set of documents as any other car import. Opel and Vauxhall models are common imports, so the process is well-established. Having your documents in order will make the VRT appointment quick and avoid unnecessary delays.
The essential documents are:
- UK V5C registration certificate: The UK logbook. Ensure the seller completes the relevant sections to confirm the sale. If the car was registered as a Vauxhall in the UK, which is the same brand as Opel, the V5C will show Vauxhall as the make, but Revenue treats them identically for VRT purposes.
- Proof of purchase: A receipt or invoice from the seller. Revenue does not use this to set the OMSP, but they need it for their records.
- Certificate of Conformity: Opel and Vauxhall share the same European type approval. You can request a duplicate CoC from any Opel dealer in Ireland or Vauxhall dealer in the UK if the car does not have one.
- Proof of identity: Your passport or Irish driving licence.
- Proof of address: A utility bill or bank statement showing your Irish address.
- Insurance certificate: Proof that the car is insured for the journey to Ireland and for the VRT appointment.
If the car is over four years old, you also need a valid NCT certificate. You have 30 days from registration to get the NCT done, but doing it beforehand avoids a second visit. Opel-specific extras that are useful include the service history booklet and any receipts for major work like timing belt changes on the 1.2 Turbo engines at six years or 100,000 kilometres. For diesel Opels, proof of DPF filter maintenance is valuable. The 1.5 CDTi engines need regular oil changes using the correct 0W-30 specification oil to prevent turbocharger issues.
How does Opel's electric vehicle VRT relief work?
All Opel electric vehicles qualify for Ireland's 50 percent VRT relief for zero-emission vehicles. This is the same relief that applies to all fully electric cars and it dramatically reduces the VRT you pay. The relief works by reducing the applicable VRT rate by 50 percent, with a minimum floor of 5 percent. For Opel EVs like the Corsa-e, Mokka-e, and Comet-e, the effective rate is almost always the 5 percent floor because they produce zero CO2 emissions.
The calculation is straightforward. An Opel Corsa-e with an OMSP of 24,000 would normally fall into the 14 percent VRT band based on zero CO2 emissions. The 50 percent relief reduces the 14 percent rate to 7 percent. Since the minimum floor is 5 percent, and 7 percent is above that floor, the effective rate is 7 percent. The VRT is 24,000 times 7 percent, which is 1,680. Without the relief, the same car would cost 3,360 in VRT. The relief saves you 1,680.
For the Comet-e at 12,000 OMSP and zero CO2, the effective rate drops to the 5 percent minimum floor. The VRT is just 600. Without the relief it would be approximately 1,680. The Comet-e benefits most from the relief because a larger proportion of its total cost would have been VRT if the relief did not exist.
The Opel VRT relief on electric vehicles is the single most important factor in the decision to import an electric Opel. The savings are immediate and significant. A petrol Corsa costs 2,240 in VRT at 16,000 OMSP, while a Corsa-e costs about 1,200 in VRT at 24,000 OMSP. The difference in VRT between the two is about 1,040 in favour of the electric Corsa-e. When you add the annual fuel savings of around 1,000 euro for electric versus petrol, the total saving over five years is about 6,000 euro in favour of the electric version. The higher purchase price of the Corsa-e is offset by these running cost savings within about three years of ownership.