More comfort, less stress: Distance to vehicle ahead automatically maintained
Data fusion: Opel Astra ACC integrates radar and information from front camera
The future: ACC and driver assistance systems key components of automated driving
Data fusion: Opel Astra Adaptive Cruise Control integrates radar and information from front camera.
Opel is bringing the latest adaptive cruise control (ACC) technology to the compact market segment, introducing the new radar and camera-based ACC on the Astra hatchback and Sports Tourer with six-speed automatic transmission.
Compared with conventional cruise control, ACC brings additional comfort and a reduction in stress for the driver by maintaining a certain distance to the vehicle ahead. ACC automatically adjusts the speed to follow the vehicle in front according to the selected following distance. The system automatically decelerates the car when approaching a slower moving vehicle, if necessary by applying limited braking. If the vehicle ahead accelerates, ACC increases the car’s speed up to the selected set speed. ACC behaves like conventional cruise control if there is no vehicle in the driving lane ahead, but it will additionally apply the brakes to maintain the set speed when driving downhill.
The latest generation ACC from Opel uses not only the radar of conventional systems, but also the Astra’s front camera to locate a vehicle ahead in the Astra’s driving lane. The system operates at speeds between 30 and 180 km/h.
The Astra’s full speed range adaptive cruise control can even brake the car to a full stop behind a preceding vehicle and provide the driver with additional support, for example in traffic jams. When the car has come to a full stop, it can automatically resume following the vehicle ahead within three second[1]. Otherwise, the driver selects resume by pressing the “SET-/RES+” switch or the accelerator pedal when the vehicle in front starts moving again. If the vehicle in front starts moving and the driver does not respond, ACC gives a visual and an audible reminder to relaunch the car. The system then follows the vehicle again (up to the set speed).
“For us at Opel, driving is fun when it is neither boring nor over-demanding,” says William F. Bertagni, Vice President Vehicle Engineering Europe. “The Astra’s latest-generation adaptive cruise control technology perfectly matches our philosophy by taking more of the chore out of long distance driving or stop-and-go traffic, and helping the driver to stay fresh and concentrated.”
Opel Astra - Six-speed automatic transmission.
The driver controls ACC via switches on the steering wheel, selecting a “near”, “mid” or “far” gap for the preferred distance to the preceding vehicle. The “SET-/RES+” switch controls the speed while icons in the instrument cluster inform the driver about set speed, selected gap and if ACC has detected a vehicle ahead.
Cockpit display: icons in the instrument cluster inform Astra-driver about set speed, selected gap and if adaptive cruise control has detected a vehicle ahead.
Adaptive cruise control on the Opel Astra five-door hatchback and Opel Astra Sports Tourer is available as an option with the following engines:
Engine
Gasoline / Diesel
Fuel consumption l/100 km NEDC combined
CO2 emissions g/km NEDC combined
150 hp 1.4 liter ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo
G
5.6-5.4
128-124
200 hp 1.6 liter ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo
G
6.1-6.0
142-138
136 hp 1.6 liter CDTI
D
4.6-4.4
122-115
ACC and the Astra’s additional driver-assistance systems are key components of future intelligent cars and automated driving. Lane Keep Assist (LKA) applies a gentle nudge of corrective steering if the Astra is about to stray out of its lane, followed by a Lane Departure Warning (LDW) if it should leave its lane. Automated Emergency Braking (AEB), Integrated Brake Assist (IBA), Forward Collision Alert (FCA) and Following Distance Indication (FDI) help to avoid or mitigate frontal collisions. A row of red LED lights flashes on the windscreen in the driver’s field of vision if the Astra is closing too fast on the vehicle in front and a collision is imminent.
Forward Collision Alert: If the gap shrinks below a safe distance, it warns the driver with a loud audible alarm, a visual warning in the instrument cluster and an LED projection on the windscreen.
The Astra’s single (mono) camera, installed at the top of the windscreen, collects the data for these systems.
[1] The “auto resume” function is available on the Astra with the 1.6 CDTI and 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo engines.
Well-equipped convertible offers high levels of standard content, technology
2016 Buick Cascada convertible
The top-down driving experience of the 2016 Cascada – Buick’s first convertible offered in the United States in 25 years – is priced at $33,990.
When it goes on sale early next year, the Buick Cascada will offer more standard content, a more powerful standard engine and a lower starting price than the Audi A3 Cabriolet.
“Cascada expands Buick’s lineup with a uniquely fun and personal driving experience,” said Duncan Aldred, vice president of Buick. “With a lower price than key competitors, it also promises to shake up the segment – and look good doing it.”
The 2016 Cascada – designed from the ground up as a convertible – comes well-equipped in a 2+2 configuration, with room for four adults. Performance is rooted in a 200-horsepower (149 kW) turbo engine, backed by a six-speed automatic transmission, with Buick’s sophisticated HiPer Strut front suspension and a Watts Z-link rear suspension standard.
Additional standard features:
Acoustically and thermally insulated electro-hydraulic power roof that lowers in only 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph
High-intensity discharge, articulating headlamps and front LED daytime running lamps; and LED taillamps
Automated, spring-loaded and pyrotechnically activated rollover bars behind the rear seat that are linked to the air bag system
IntelliLink system with 7-inch-diagonal color touchscreen
Navigation radio and seven-speaker premium audio system
Rear Vision camera
Remote start
Dual-zone climate control
Front and rear 12-volt power outlets
Heat-reflective leather-appointed seating
Heated front seats with eight-way power adjustments
Twenty-inch wheels with “diamond graphic” bi-color finish
Front and rear air deflectors.
The Cascada also offers plenty of storage space, including 13.4 cubic feet of cargo room with the top up and 9.8 cubic feet with the top down, as well as a 22.4-inch x 12.6-inch (320 mm x 570 mm) pass-through from the trunk to the passenger compartment. When the 50/50-split rear seat is folded, longer items such as skis and wakeboards can be stowed inside.
More room, less weight: The clever lightweight construction
Comfortable, practical, smart: New seat architecture and tailgate opening via a kick
Athletic, elegant, well-conceived: The design of the future station wagon bestseller
Fast, powerful, efficient: Latest generation turbocharged engines with up to 200 hp
Ultramodern, connected, safe: Opel OnStar, new IntelliLink and IntelliLux Matrix LED
World premiere at the IAA: The new Opel Astra Sports Tourer will be one of the stars at the Opel booth – it can be admired in Frankfurt from September 17 to 27.
Opel will continue its success story in the compact class with no less than two new models that will be presented at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt (September 17 to 27). The hatchback version of the new generation Astra will make its first big appearance in front of an international audience and it will be accompanied by the Astra Sports Tourer that will celebrate its premiere at the world’s most important motor show. The youngest member of the compact class station wagon generation comes with the same trendsetting development features as its five-door sibling that has been available for order since June. The Astra Sports Tourer is based on a completely new lightweight vehicle architecture that will make it up to 200 kilograms lighter than the outgoing model. Given that the station wagon will also be combined with the latest generation engines, the Opel Astra Sports Tourer will be punchier, livelier and more fun to drive. Simultaneously, fuel consumption has been curbed giving it convincing attributes for company car and frequent drivers who often look to both practical and representative station wagons.
When the order books open in a few weeks’ time, the Astra Sports Tourer will be available with Opel OnStar and the new IntelliLink infotainment systems ensuring that it has an ultramodern and extensive connectivity offer. The same applies to the numerous safety and assistance systems along with the equipment features previously only known from cars from higher segments. And last but not least, the new Astra Sports Tourer will turn heads with its elegant, lean and athletic styling. The interior demonstrates perfectly just how intelligent the design and the entire packaging are: the newcomer has exactly the same dimensions as the outgoing model but is considerably more spacious inside, offering more comfort for the driver and passengers along with more loading space.
“Our new Astra Sports Tourer and our new Astra hatchback – they are two sides of the same coin. Both represent a quantum leap for Opel and for the compact class. Apart from offering ultramodern connectivity and evolutionary design, the station wagon version focuses even more on efficiency,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “Our Sports Tourer is the perfect combination of practicality and dynamism: more space, less weight and in addition clever, trendsetting equipment details and features such as the power tailgate that opens and closes automatically with a little kick of the foot. This is how compact class station wagons should be nowadays.”
Efficient packaging: Athletic design with amble space
The new Opel Astra Sports Tourer impresses with its athletic appearance. Just like its five-door sibling, it takes Opel’s design philosophy ‘Sculptural Artistry meets German Precision’ to the next level: efficient, light and dynamic. The newly designed double chrome bar on the grill carries the Blitz and the front headlamps melt into the radiator grill to form a graphic unity. The Sports Tourer further extends the dynamic lines of the 5-door. The slightly arched sloping roofline gives the station wagon a longer appearance – an effect that is further enhanced by the divided C-pillar. The rear view combines high functionality with sporting, elegant design. The Opel Astra Sports Tourer has a stable, robust and safe stance – the muscular rear-wheel arch contours and the divided rear light clusters add to this impression.
The latest generation Sports Tourer has the same dimensions as the outgoing model with a length of 4,702 millimeters, a width of 1,871 millimeters (with exterior mirrors folded in) and a height of 1,499 millimeters – however, it offers much more space for passengers and luggage. The driver can enjoy 26 millimeters of additional headroom, passengers in the rear have 28 millimeters more legroom – two convincing improvements for spatial perception and travelling comfort. Furthermore, the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer can now shoulder 1,630 liters of luggage thanks to the efficient packaging.
Clever and variable: Loading space improvements that help on a daily basis
Opel offers an extremely practical novelty for the new Astra Sports Tourer, which will help on a daily basis: for the first time, the tailgate can be opened without a touch or a remote control. In combination with “Keyless Open” a simple small kicking motion under the rear bumper is enough to open the tailgate. A further kicking motion under the bumper will close the tailgate. The clever system can detect any obstruction and stops the mechanism in case of emergency. Furthermore, the tailgate can still be opened by a switch on the driver’s side of the car, buttons in the luggage compartment or via the key’s remote control.
In order to increase loading space the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer comes with optional 40/20/40 foldable rear seats enabling even more flexible loading space configurations. Furthermore, the FlexOrganizer product range with side rails, dividing nets and various fastening options is available and an option so that all loaded materials can be stored safely and tidily.
Lightweight construction + new generation engines = great driving fun and economy
Each Sports Tourer component was looked at with practicality and efficiency in mind. This is not only visible when it comes to the efficient use of space but especially when it comes to the weight. Compact design on the in and outside and the lightweight bodyshell helped the station wagon shed up to 200 kilograms. High-strength and ultra-high-strength steels, modifications to the axles, to the front and rear along with new production process all played a part in the impressive result. The entry-level Opel Astra Sports Tourer weighs 1,263 kilograms (including driver) and is thus 130 kilograms lighter than the comparable outgoing model. This obviously has a positive effect on agility, ride comfort, consumption and costs.
The engine portfolio with outputs ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 147 kW/200 hp also adds to the aforementioned virtues. The Sports Tourer will only be powered by engines of the latest generation. The diesel and gasoline engines with a displacement range of 1.0 to 1.6 liters all combine highest efficiency with excellent responsiveness and running smoothness.
The new 1.6 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo that will celebrate its premiere at the IAA is the top-of the-range engine available for the Opel Astra Sports Tourer. The combustion chamber of the 147 kW/200 hp direct injection turbo unit can withstand peak pressure of 130 bar and mobilizes an impressive 300 Nm of torque (with overboost). This powerhouse also delivers outstanding smoothness over the full engine speed range. To achieve this, the engineers made numerous optimizations to the induction and exhaust systems including decoupling the cam cover from the cylinder head via specific fasteners and a dedicated sealing system. Despite direct injection and focused combustion, engineers were able to reduce noise levels substantially compared to the previous engine. Because of these ‘sound-engineering’ measures, the customer will appreciate quiet and smooth idling, with a pleasant sound quality even at high road speeds, engine speeds and loads.
Innovative technologies: Safety, comfort and connectivity taken to a new level
Apart from impressing with ultramodern, trendsetting engine, the new Astra Sports Tourer also sets new standards in safety, infotainment and comfort. The intelligent IntelliLux LED® Matrix light in the new Astra is another absolute novelty in the compact segment. It enables permanent extra-urban driving with glare-free high beams and automatically and continuously deactivates individual LED modules when oncoming traffic or a vehicle immediately ahead are detected. The area around the light source is simply masked out and the rest of the road remains brightly illuminated. The groundbreaking system thus increases the active safety of all road users while also bringing additional comfort to the Opel Astra Sports Tourer driver when driving at night. Numerous innovative assistance systems drawing on the latest generation Opel Eye front camera offer the driver further support – starting with the more extensive and precise Traffic Sign Assist over Lane Keep assist, that even offers active steering corrections in case of an emergency, right up to the Forward Collision Alert with Collision Imminent Braking that can even bring the car to a standstill at speeds under 40 km/h.
On the inside, another unique element for the compact segment can be found: Opel OnStar, the personal connectivity and service assistant, serves as a guardian angel for the driver and passengers. In addition, two new IntelliLink systems will be introduced. The latest generation of the infotainment system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Elsewhere, the new AGR-certified premium ergonomic seats add additional comfort with side bolster adjustment, massage and memory function along with ventilation. Passengers in the rear can also look forward to an additional optional comfort feature with seat heating being available for the two outer rear seats.
The Opel/Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer is traditionally responsible for around 30 percent of Opel/Vauxhall Astra sales in Europe. The main customers are company car drivers along with families who want to combine practical loading space solutions with high travelling comfort. The biggest markets for the versatile station wagon are Germany, the UK and Italy. In Germany, order books for the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer will open on October 10, 2015. The other countries will follow.
Most streamlined Astra ever: exemplary drag coefficient of 0.285
Clever design: more compact dimensions reduce drag
Attention to detail: rear spoiler, C-pillar and underbody optimized
Increased efficiency: great aerodynamics meet latest generation engines
Increase in efficiency: All-New Opel Astra K – great aerodynamics meet latest generation engines.
Lighter, more frugal and more agile – the new Opel Astra K represents a quantum leap in the development and targets maximum efficiency. Its design and vehicle architecture also set standards in aerodynamics and continue a traditional Opel strength – when the Kadett E GSi was introduced in 1984 it was the most streamlined hatchback in the world with a cd value of 0.30. Outstanding aerodynamics are closely linked to economical fuel consumption and climate-friendly CO2-emissions – another long-time Opel strength.
Most streamlined Astra ever: Exemplary drag coefficient of 0.285.
A decisive advantage of the new Astra is that it is much more compact than its predecessor is. It is around 2.5 centimeters lower and 0.5 centimeters slimmer, including the more slender wheels. But to make the vehicle as streamlined as possible, precision and attention to detail were also necessary. The engineers paid special attention to the roofline, the C-pillar and the construction of the underbody. The result speaks for itself: the new compact class Opel is amongst the elite of the most streamlined models in its class with a drag coefficient of 0.285.
In perfect shape: Opel engineers paid special attention to the roofline, the C-pillar and the construction of the underbody of the new Astra K.
“We have made the new Astra more aerodynamic than ever before. The drag coefficient values beat the best values achieved by its predecessor across the board. We gained some important knowledge from the tests we conducted in the ultra-modern wind tunnel of Stuttgart University who we have been working with for many years,” said Reiner Weidemann, Head of the Opel Aerodynamics department. “This helped us make the new Astra the most streamlined compact class car ever produced by Opel.”
Design and vehicle architecture: setting standards in aerodynamics
Clever design: The engineers decided to let the roof of the new Opel Astra K flow out gently to the rear to avoid any drag.
Leaner, smarter and more innovative than ever before – the new Astra epitomizes highest efficiency and demonstrates the next evolutionary stage of Opel’s design philosophy “Sculptural artistry meets German precision”. From an aerodynamics point of view, this means: the new Astra has a drag coefficient of 0.285 with its athletic and dynamic appearance along with the numerous measures taken above and under the outer shell. The new Astra has a total length of 4.37 meters and is roughly five centimeters shorter than its predecessor is. The height has been reduced by 2.5 centimeters to 1.48 meters and the width reduced by 0.5 centimeters to 1.81 meters. These dimensions also have a positive impact on the overall drag, with a cross sectional area of around 0.642 square meters (compared to 0.770 square meters for its predecessor), and thus on fuel efficiency.
In the wind tunnel: The delicate rear spoiler serves as an effective separation edge that cuts the airflow at the top without creating any disturbing wake turbulences.
However, the art of the exemplary aerodynamic performance is down to attention to detail. The engineers decided to let the roof flow out gently to the rear to avoid any drag. The delicate rear spoiler serves as an effective separation edge that cuts the airflow at the top without creating any disturbing wake turbulences. Even the C-pillar with its small edges was designed to split airflow more efficiently than was the case for the previous Astra, thus reducing drag.
Attention to detail: The Rear spoiler and the C-pillar of the new Opel Astra K have been optimized.
The engineers managed to achieve further improvements by overhauling the design of the underbody. Opposed to many competitors, Opel specifically decided not to look to a full underbody paneling. Instead, all parts were examined and reworked to ensure better airflow. The underside of the car now has airflow-optimized structures and battery attachment, the new rear axle now sits higher compared to the previous Astra, thus no longer providing an obstacle for the air flowing under the car. These measures all play a key part in the exemplary aerodynamics. Expressed in cold figures, the most eco-friendly version of the previous Opel Astra had a drag coefficient of 0.325. The basic version of the all-new Opel Astra has an outstanding drag coefficient of 0.285. Even the automatic diesel of the new generation with 18 inch wheels easily beats the most streamlined version of the predecessor with a drag coefficient of around 0.31. And that is not all – an even more aerodynamic and frugal ecoFlex version is planned for the future.
The conscious decision not to use a full underbody paneling also means less weight and consequently lower fuel consumption along with reduced production costs. Advantages that have a positive impact on the price – something that can be passed on to the customer.
Combined with the fact that every new Opel Astra will be propelled by an engine of the latest generation with outputs ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 147 kW/200 hp customers can look forward to a win-win-win situation. All of the new generation engines combine strong performance and economical fuel consumption with outstanding responsiveness while at the same time offering smoothness and low noise levels. For example, with the 1.0 liter turbo and Easytronic 3.0 the new Opel Astra is the most fuel-efficient and eco-friendly gasoline-engined car in its class (4.2 l/100 km in the combined cycle, 96 g CO2/km). That is efficiency à la Astra.
All-New Vauxhall Astra in showrooms in October priced from £15,295 OTR
Up to £2,200 less expensive than the outgoing model
Class-leading powertrains achieve up to 91.1mpg and as low as 82g/km
All-New Vauxhall Astra
Vauxhall’s all-new Astra will be in showrooms in October priced from £15,295 on-the-road.
The new model, built at Vauxhall’s manufacturing plant in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, is up to £2,200 less expensive than the outgoing model with a simplified range. The new Astra range includes Design, Tech Line, Energy, SRi and Elite, with Nav versions of the SRi and Elite trims also available.
Range highlights include the 1.0 litre three-cylinder Turbo Start/Stop ecoFLEX model priced from £15,995 on-the-road. With an Easytronic five-speed automatic transmission, the same model achieves a class-leading 96g/km CO2 emissions. The range-topping 1.6 litre (200PS) is available in SRi trim priced from £20,435 on-the-road. The diesel offering includes the 1.6 litre ‘Whisper Diesel’ (110PS) Start/Stop ecoFLEX model (prices start at £17,495 on-the-road) that achieves 91.1mpg and class-leading CO2 emissions of 82g/km (provisional).
Each trim level features a high level of standard spec:
Design
Prices start from £15,295 on-the-road, £150 less than outgoing model
16-inch alloy wheels
LED daytime running lights, 6 airbags
Air conditioning
R4.0 IntelliLink audio system with digital radio
7-inch colour touchscreen, USB & aux in
Bluetooth connectivity, multi-function trip computer
Cruise control and steering wheel controls
Electrically operated front and rear windows
Tech Line (over Design)
Prices start from £15,995 on-the-road, £775 less than outgoing model
Navi 900 satellite navigation system with 8 inch colour touchscreen and voice recognition
Leather steering wheel, adjustable front armrest
Energy (over Design)
Prices start from £17,295 on-the-road, £625 less than outgoing model
17-inch 10 spoke alloy wheels
Heated front seats and heated leather steering wheel
SRi (over Design)
Prices start from £17,895 on-the-road, £970 less than outgoing model
17-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels
Driving Assistance Pack (front camera system)
OnStar, Sight & Light Pack
Sports seats, sports switch
Leather steering wheel
Front foglamps
SRi Nav (over SRi)
Navi 900 satellite navigation system with 8 inch colour touchscreen and voice recognition
Elite (over Design)
Prices start from £19,315 on-the-road, £1,960 less than outgoing model
17-inch multi spoke alloy wheels
Leather ergonomic sports front seats with extendable seat cushions, tilt and four-way electrical lumbar adjustment
Heated front and rear outer seats
OnStar, Sight & Light Pack
Electronic climate control
Front foglamps
Electrically foldable door mirrors
Two USB chargers for rear seat passengers
Elite Nav (over Elite)
Navi 900 satellite navigation system with 8 inch colour touchscreen and voice recognition
The 2016 Buick Cascada convertible rolls into the sun early next year with a reinforced structure designed to complement its refined appearance and enhance its versatility, while bolstering the car’s strength, rigidity and chassis precession.
Special features include spring-loaded, pyrotechnically activated roll bars behind the front seats that are linked to the airbag system.
“Intelligent design is a hallmark of Buick’s renaissance and the all-new Cascada advances that legacy with seamless integration of great convertible design and safety,” said Holt Ware, Buick exterior design director. “It’s a design that fosters the Cascada’s clean, uninterrupted lines while helping enable confident, top-down driving enjoyment.”
The body structure allows the top, its folding mechanism and the roll bar apparatus to be stowed below the car’s “belt line” and under a hard tonneau cover, for a smooth, uninterrupted profile. It also enhances cargo space, with a 22.4-inch by 12.6-inch (320 mm by 570 mm) pass-through from the trunk to the passenger compartment. When the 50/50-split rear seat is folded, longer items such as skis and wakeboards can be stowed inside.
“There are no design compromises with the Cascada,” said Ware. “The structural elements enhance the driving experience, not intrude on it.”
The roll bar system, for example, enables the rear-seat cargo pass-through, because it is less obtrusive than some vehicles’ hoop-style pop-up protection systems. When deployed, the roll bars extend approximately 14 inches (358 mm) to match the height of the windshield.
It is also a lighter system than others, which enhances performance and agility.
The Cascada’s strategically reinforced body structure supports the roll bar system and is the foundation for the car’s strength and responsive driving experience. Elements include:
A-pillars featuring press-hardened steel in the inner structures and
reinforced with high-strength, hot-rolled and cold-bent tubes within
the pillars
Reinforced rocker panels with increased cross section
Underbody reinforcements including X-braces, V-braces and additional brackets
A reinforced “torsion box” bulkhead behind the rear seats that incorporates the pop-up roll bars
As a result of the structure’s rigidity, engineers were able to tune the suspension and steering systems with a high degree of precision, because they didn’t have to compensate for chassis flex.
“That stiffness is at the core of the Cascada’s precise, refined driving experience,” said Bernd Pohl, Cascada structural engineer. “It is exceptionally responsive, with great driver feedback.”
About the Buick Cascada
The Cascada goes on sale in early 2016. It will be the first Buick convertible offered in the United States in 25 years and the latest globally developed vehicle to join the brand’s growing portfolio.
The Cascada’s 2+2 configuration offers comfortable room for four adults. Its expressive driving experience is rooted in a rigid body structure, Buick’s sophisticated HiPer Strut front suspension and responsive Watts Z-link suspension in the rear – along with a 200-horsepower (149 kW) turbocharged engine.
When it comes to dropping the top on a whim, the electro-hydraulic power roof system lowers in only 17 seconds at speeds up to 31 mph. Multilayer construction offers superior thermal and acoustic insulation for driving comfort in all seasons.
Inside, a thoughtfully trimmed and comprehensively equipped cabin reflects Buick’s renaissance. The instrument panel is wrapped with soft-touch material featuring authentic stitching, while heated front seats and steering wheel offer comfort in colder weather conditions.
Advanced safety features include Lane Departure Warning, Rear Park Assist and a standard rearview camera.
The Cascada also offers plenty of storage space, including 13.4 cubic feet of cargo room with the top up and 9.8 cubic feet with the top down.
Holden launches European-sourced Astra GTC, Astra VXR and Cascada convertible
Astra available in performance focused 1.6L turbo and 2.0L turbo engines
Cascada convertible introduced with a Special Launch Edition
2015 Holden Astra GTC Sport
2015 Holden Astra VXR
Holden’s introduction of the stylish and sporty Astra alongside the elegant Cascada convertible marks the beginning of an exciting product onslaught by Holden, promising to deliver 24 major vehicle launches and 36 powertrain combinations in the next five years.
2015 Holden Cascada Convertible
The European manufactured Astra and Cascada are both designed and engineered in Germany, at Opel’s Russelsheim base, and exhibit the exceptional build quality and refinement synonymous with European cars.
Engineering integrity and the promise of outstanding road performance is ensured after long, demanding validation testing - 10,000kms of which for VXR was completed at the iconic mecca for all driving enthusiasts; the Nurburgring Nordschliefe track.
Holden’s Executive Director – Sales, Peter Keley, said Astra and Cascada would act as aspirational, halo vehicles to Holden, and Holden Dealers were excited to finally take delivery of the cars.
“Astra and Cascada exhibit all the hallmarks of premium European manufactured cars. Both are visually stunning with great road presence and exceptional build quality.” Mr Keley said.
“We are confident these are the right cars for Australia, giving buyers a vehicle to aspire to own and this is something echoed by our Dealers.
“Dealers nationwide have expressed interest and excitement in Astra and Cascada and are looking forward to getting their hands on them.”
ASTRA
The Holden Astra nameplate became a firm favourite with Australian drivers and resonated with those looking for European performance when it was first launched in 1996. The refreshed 2015 Holden Astra is introduced in GTC and GTC Sport trim levels in addition to the ultra-sporty VXR, exuding exceptional road presence and a stylish, unmistakably European design.
ASTRA GTC AND GTC SPORT
2015 Holden Astra GTC Sport
Astra GTC and GTC Sport are stylish, progressive looking sports hatches that effortlessly blend drive comfort with a sports look and feel. Both come equipped with a lively 1.6 litre turbocharged engine coupled with a responsive six-speed manual or automatic transmission.
The automatic transmission is accompanied by active select and when combined with the 1.6 litre turbo engine provides 125 kW power and 260 Nm torque, ensuring an exciting and engaging driving experience. In the even sportier, manual transmission, Astra offers an increased 147 kW power and 280 Nm torque, targeted at those wanting a more dynamic drive.
The European engineered Astra comes with a high-tech HiPerStrut front suspension to offer improved handling characteristics and direct steering response. With a shortened spindle length and reduced kingpin inclination, Astra’s HiPerStrut helps prevent the torque steer so often seen in powerful front-wheel-drive cars.
Sportec bolster sports seat (leather appointed in GTC Sport)
Inside Astra GTC and GTC Sport the European design and engineering excels with Sportec bolster sports seat (leather appointed in GTC Sport) and the award winning Holden MyLink infotainment system taking centre stage. The MyLink system comes with a seven-inch colour screen display, integrated Pandora®, Stitcher™ and TuneIn Radio apps as well as satellite navigation.
2015 Holden Astra GTC Sport - MyLink system comes with a seven-inch colour screen display, integrated Pandora®, Stitcher™ and TuneIn Radio apps as well as satellite navigation.
In addition to the impressive list of features already available on Astra GTC, GTC Sport adds 19-inch alloy wheels, alloy sports pedals, leather sports seats and a sports body kit to earn the ‘Sport’ name it proudly bares.
ASTRA VXR
2015 Holden Astra VXR
Sitting at the top of the Astra model range, Astra VXR is the ultimate ‘hot hatch’, boasting a 2.0 litre turbocharged engine which is able to unleash 206 kW of power and a staggering 400 Nm of torque. Brembo front brakes provide a security net to accompany the Astra VXR’s unbridled power, in addition to electro-hydraulic steering for a direct, engaging steering feel, allowing drivers to put the car precisely where they want it.
Astra VXR is a ‘no holds barred’ sports hatch that is as at home on track as in the city. Key to its versatility is the acclaimed FlexRide tuning system which allows drivers to choose from three pre-configured ride settings according to their environment:
Standard – all-round performance with comfort
Sport – stiffer chassis, improved agility and more direct steering
VXR – more direct steering, more responsive throttle, and tuned for maximum performance
Supporting Astra VXR’s impressive dynamic setup is its unmistakable appearance and superior road presence. VXR wears 20-inch alloy wheels, coupled with VXR sports body kit, alloy sports pedals and VXR steering wheel.
2015 Holden Astra VXR - Eight-way adjustable VXR leather appointed sports seats with power bolsters and lumbar support for both driver and passenger.
Like its calmer siblings, VXR is well equipped inside too. As well as offering the same MyLink infotainment system as GTC and GTC Sport, it also shows off eight-way adjustable VXR leather appointed sports seats with power bolsters and lumbar support for both driver and passenger.
CASCADA
2015 Holden Cascada Convertible
Setting a new benchmark in attainable luxury, Cascada is an elegant, yet responsive, full size four-seat convertible designed for beachside cruising and the open road.
Formally known as Astra Convertible, Cascada has established a name in its own right with its ability to appeal to a completely different type of buyer.
Cascada will be available in two guises from launch; Cascada and a special Cascada Launch Edition, of which only 50 units will be available.
CASCADA
Cascada comes with a versatile 1.6 litre turbo engine, which when coupled with its smooth six-speed automatic transmission, delivers an easy and enjoyable driving experience, on urban and regional roads.
Dynamically, Cascada has been engineered with strength and rigidity in mind, ensuring drivers get the perfect balance between solid cornering performance and the freedom associated with driving a convertible.
Stunning exterior design is complimented with 18-inch alloy wheels and a secure, triple-layered acoustic power hood able to be retracted in just 17 seconds whilst on the move at speeds of up to 50kph.
Cascada’s perforated leather appointed seats and intuitive MyLink infotainment system provide a luxurious touch on a flexible, four seat interior design.
2015 Holden Cascada Convertible - Perforated leather appointed seats and intuitive MyLink infotainment system
CASCADA LAUNCH EDITION
A limited number of just 50 special, Cascada Launch Edition vehicles will be available to celebrate the return of the convertible body style to the Holden range.
Cascada Launch Edition dials up the luxury even more by adding premium Nappa leather appointed and ventilated front seats and a leather sports steering wheel. There is also significant differentiation on the car’s exterior with 20-inch alloy wheels, Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) and Bi-Xenon headlamps with LED DRL’s (Daylight Running Lamps).
SERVICE
Holden’s commitment to delivering excellent customer value extends beyond the purchase of Astra and Cascada, with the recently launched and ground-breaking Holden Lifetime Capped Price Servicing (CPS) program.
And with Holden’s extensive dealer network offering Australia’s largest CPS program Astra and Cascada buyers get peace of mind with transparent service pricing for life.
Astra and Cascada will go on sale 4 May 2015 and are available in a wide range of exterior colour choices to suit a range of personalities.
