Opel Astra is one of the most important models of the brand, both from a historical point of view (after all, it was presented 30 years ago) and from a strategic point of view. After all, it is one of the most popular cars of the C-segment in general (despite the growing popularity of SUVs and crossovers, “traditional” compact cars still have a large share in the European market) and a serious competitor to models such as the Volkswagen Golf or Ford Fox. The first information about the sixth generation of the Astra, previously revealed, revealed that we are dealing with an all-out revolution and a competitor who will be happy to fight for the platform in this category. During the world premiere in Rüsselsheim, we can see that there were strong arguments for this.
The new Opel Astra – a complete change of style
Yes, we’ve seen the pictures before, but live we have a stronger impression that it’s a completely different car. The design of the new Astra has nothing to do with its predecessor (except, perhaps, almost identical in length – 4374 mm) and could certainly be one of the model’s greatest strengths. The style is definitely more modern and emotional. Due to the lower roofline, shorter overhangs and a width of 5 cm, the silhouette turns out not only more plump, but also more dynamic and has something of an elegant attack.
This impression is reinforced by the black front panel – Opel Vizor. This is one of the hallmarks of the brand’s new design philosophy, which we already know from the new generation of Mokka or Crossland i Grandlanda after a face-liftAnd over time, as we said earlier, it will move to other Opel models. The Opel Vizor is crowned with LED headlights with a distinctive daytime running light pattern. In higher versions, this will be the latest Intelli-Lux LED Pixel that automatically adjusts the light beam depending on conditions and situations on the road. LED technology also uses thin taillights that cut through the tailgate. The name of the model is widely distributed over the latter, and the centrally mounted logo also serves as a button for opening the hatch. Another feature is a vertical third brake light built into the spoiler.
The new Opel Astra – modern comfort
We’ll start here with an assessment of spaciousness. The front seats are slightly lower than its predecessor, but the roof line is lower as well. However, there is a lot of space. The situation is somewhat different in the back seat, there is no shortage of space above the head and legs, but when the driver’s height is more than 190 cm and the seat is changed back, the passenger touches the backrest with his knees. In this respect, it is typical of the C-segment. Like other Opel cars, the Astra can also be equipped with impressive seats with a wide range of tuning, heating and ventilation, and with the approval of AGR (Drive for Healthy Return). A feature of the new generation is also that the luggage compartment is 52 liters larger. Its capacity is now 422 liters, and after opening the backrests of the sofa, up to 1250 liters (these values apply for combustion versions, the company has not yet disclosed this data for hybrid versions).
And of course, the driver-oriented Pure Panel digital cockpit with two 10-inch screens and covered by a single pane of glass makes the biggest impression of the sixth-generation Astra. It has beautiful modern graphics, and it is easy to use, like Moka or Grandland. Most importantly, Opel has not abandoned the physical buttons for regulating air conditioning or controlling specific on-board systems, which will certainly have a positive effect on ergonomics.
The new Opel Astra – also electric
On the occasion of the Astra premiere, Opel revealed more details about the available engine versions. So the scope will include:
- 1.2 Petrol engines with 110 hp (average WLTP fuel consumption 5.5-5.4 l/100 km) or 130 hp (average WLTP fuel consumption 5.6-5.4 l/100 km with gearbox) manual or 5.8- 5.5 l / 100 km with 8-speed automatic);
- diesel 1.5 / 130 hp (average fuel consumption 4.5-4.4 l / 100 km manual and 4.7-4.5 l / 100 km with “automatic”);
- 1.6 plug-in hybrids with 180 or 225 hp. The first will accelerate to “hundreds” in 7.9 seconds and is expected to consume only 1.4-1.1 l / 100 km in the combined WLTP cycle, and the second will accelerate to 100 km / h 7.7 seconds and be satisfied with the same amount of fuel. In both cases, the electric motors will be powered by a lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 12.4 kWh, which will make it possible to drive in electric mode for a distance of up to 100 km.
In 2023, a purely electric version will be added to the color palette, but we still have to wait for the technical details of this variety.
The new Opel Astra – in our opinion
Of course, in order to fully evaluate the new Astra, we will have to wait for the first engines and tests, but today, after the first meeting with it, we can say that it looks great, looks great inside and out, offers modern solutions and attention to detail. Opel will start selling the model in late fall, and the first cars ordered should be delivered to customers in early 2022. A few months later, the Sport Tourer, a station wagon, will be added to the lineup.
We do not know Polish prices yet, but in Germany, for example, they start at the same level as in the case of the predecessor – from 22,465 euros.
Echo Richards embodies a personality that is a delightful contradiction: a humble musicaholic who never brags about her expansive knowledge of both classic and contemporary tunes. Infuriatingly modest, one would never know from a mere conversation how deeply entrenched she is in the world of music. This passion seamlessly translates into her problem-solving skills, with Echo often drawing inspiration from melodies and rhythms. A voracious reader, she dives deep into literature, using stories to influence her own hardcore writing. Her spirited advocacy for alcohol isn’t about mere indulgence, but about celebrating life’s poignant moments.
