IAA 2019: First drive in the new Opel Astra
DETAIL CARE Alongside the Corsa and Grandland X Hybrid, the Astra is the third world premiere Opel is showing at the IAA Frankfurt (September 12-22). New engines and a better CO2 balance are the main focus. The Astra is the second major volume model from the Rüsselsheim-based company, which has been on the market for a total of 83 years (formerly as the Kadett). The current [...]
The Astra is the second important volume model from Rüsselsheim, which has been on the market for a total of 83 years (formerly as the Kadett). The current version of the German icon was introduced in 2015 and has now undergone an extensive update.
Up to 21 percent less CO2 emissions
Opel's engineers have focused primarily on aerodynamics and the powertrain. Thanks to a modified underbody and air flaps behind the upgraded front grille, the new Astra achieves a Cd value of 0.26, making it the best in its class. All five all-aluminum engines have been completely rebuilt and are made by Opel.
With these powertrains, the Astra emits up to 21 percent less CO2. With the exception of the more powerful diesel, all engines remain below 100 g/km. All meet the Euro 6d Temp standard, which will apply from 2021.
Gasoline engine only available as three-cylinder engine
Among the gasoline models, only three-cylinder engines with 110 hp/195 Nm (1.2 turbo/6-speed manual), 130 hp/225 Nm (1.2 turbo/6-speed manual) and 145 hp/225 Nm (1.4 turbo/stepless automatic) are offered. In addition, there is a 1.5-liter diesel in two power ratings (105 hp/260 Nm or 122 hp/300 Nm).
Comfortable driving with automatic CVT
After initial test drives, we chose the 145 hp gasoline engine with the 6-speed manual transmission and the 122 hp diesel with the 9-speed torque converter automatic as our favorites. In terms of fuel consumption, Opel quotes 4.4 liters/100 kilometers for the five-door with manual transmission (automatic 5.0 liters), while the diesels are said to get by on 3.8 liters/100 kilometers (automatic 4.6 liters).
We were pleasantly surprised by the continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) in the gasoline models, because Opel obviously has the dreaded rubber band effect under control better than most of its competitors.
High-end sound system creates mood
In the future, compatible smartphones can also be easily charged inductively via wireless charging in the compact class model. The new Astra becomes a concert hall with the Bose high-end sound system consisting of seven speakers including a RichBass subwoofer. It sets the mood.
Last but not least, the heated windshield is another comfort feature in the new Astra.
Ergonomic seats offer massage function
The assistance systems have also been upgraded. There is an optimized front and rear view camera, pedestrian detection, more economical LED headlights or adaptive IntelliLUX LED matrix light, a high-quality multimedia/navigation system including an eight-inch color touchscreen, real-time traffic information, a heated windshield or a sound system from BOSE. Adaptive cruise control, a front collision warning system with automatic emergency braking, and ergonomic seats with ventilation and massage function round out the package.
Swiss prices range from 23,850 francs (1.2/110 hp, 6-speed manual) to 39,100 francs (1.5 diesel/122 hp, 9-speed automatic), minus a flex premium of 2250 francs. The Sports Tourer (station wagon) costs 1000 francs more in each case.
