All-New Opel Astra Sports Tourer: Successful Estate with Long Tradition

• In 11th generation: Opel Kadett Caravan and Astra Sports Tourer define compact class
• Beginning of success story: First Opel compact estate Kadett A Caravan was bestseller
• Versatile allrounder: Lots of space, comfort and technologies for business and leisure
• Speaks for itself: Astra estates named Sports Tourer since 2010
• New era: Newest generation with Opel Vizor, Pure Panel and electrified for first time

Around 25 million Opel Kadett and Opel Astra cars sold – 5.8 million of them estates – is an impressive number and a strong performance. Lined up end to end, all Opel compact models built to date would break the magic 100,000-kilometre mark and form a line of vehicles that could reach two and a half times around the equator. Opel's compacts have made personal mobility possible for many, especially in economically difficult times. With each model generation, Opel also has made technologies from higher vehicle segments affordable for many car buyers – as every Opel product has done for 160 years, from sewing machines and bicycles to motorbikes and automobiles. At the same time, manufacturer continues to combine innovations from higher classes with dynamic design.

Introduction of the all-new Astra Sports Tourer in Opel’s jubilee year marks the beginning of a new era in the history of the brand’s compact class estates. All-new Astra Sports Tourer is the first Opel estate to feature the new Opel Vizor brand face and the digital Pure Panel cockpit, as well as a stylish two-tone paint finish as an option. In addition, it continues the Opel electric offensive. All-new Astra Sports Tourer is the first Opel estate to be electrified – already now as a plug-in hybrid and next year also as a battery-electric version.

But it all started with the Kadett A Caravan in 1963. Opel presented its first compact-class estate and quickly became the leader in the market segment. From then on, a car “like a van” was part of every new Kadett and Astra generation. Astra H (2004-2010) was the last Opel compact to bear the name Caravan until the end of production. In the meantime, estates had changed more and more from typical craftsmen's tools to lifestyle companions. Accordingly, every Astra estate has been called Sports Tourer since 2010.

Kadett A to Astra L – A success story over 11 generations

1963-1965: Opel Kadett A

As spacious as a bus: First CarAvan

Opel Kadett Caravan revolutionized the compact class in 1963. A large boot and plenty of room for six people thanks to a third row of seats plus a new, lively engine and low maintenance costs made up the recipe for success for the Kadett A. Opel built nearly 650,000 up until 1965. The contours were business-like and modern. Beltline was low down, the panoramic windows made for good visibility and a decorative strip running along the side accentuated the stretched form. Front fenders tapered off into the headlamps. Iinterior space deeply impressed owners of conventional small cars. The boot was a real baggage compartment, and the fuel tank cap was outside! “Opel Kadett, in brief: O.K.,” wrote Opel’s advertising team, unable to also resist a dig at their competitors in Wolfsburg. “You never have the smell of gasoline in the boot,” they said with a wink. With its modern, water-cooled front engine, the Kadett had another major design advantage over the Beetle. 993-cc four-cylinder unit developed a lively 40 hp.

1965-1973: Opel Kadett B Caravan

Strength in numbers: Kadett is an export success-story

B follows A, and a new series already replaced the first model in 1965. The new version was more than four meters long and thus a good deal bigger than its predecessor. The caravan with its 1.57-metre long loading area is available from start of sales with a choice of two or four doors. As for its fashionable figure – their colleagues overseas inspired the designers. Not only was the length increased – so, too, was the horsepower. Opel engineers enlarged the bore of the four-cylinder unit by 3 mm. The basic 1,078-cc unit developed 45 hp. Also available was a higher-compression 1.1 S engine with 55 hp. The Kadett quickly became a success, with over 2.6 million units produced from September 1965 to July 1973. And its success was certainly not limited to its country of birth. In 1966, the export quota reached 50 per cent as customers from 120 countries around the globe snatched up the Kadett.

1973-1979: Opel Kadett C Caravan

Solid as a rock: Quality in every shape

Kadett C family had many faces: a smart family car, a chic estate with a practical rear tailgate, or a competitive sports coupé (GT/E) in war paint. Caravan came first as a two-door, and then a four-door in 1976. A total of 1.7 million of them were built between 1973 and 1979. Rear-wheel drive Kadett C made its debut in August 1973 with a cleanly designed body and a new double-wishbone front axle. Most popular engine was the 1.2 with 60 hp and a modest 88 Nm of torque. Characteristic design features included a flat radiator grille, an engine hood with the brand’s signature crease, and a front apron in spoiler form. “Kadett not only drives exceptionally well, is also conscientiously designed and cleanly made. It requires little maintenance, is repair-friendly and economical to run,” praised the car-testing experts at “auto motor und sport” in the 20/73 edition.

1979-1984: Opel Kadett D Caravan

Remake/remodel: Space galore

Fourth generation of the post-war Kadett introduced a new compact class era at Opel. At the 1979 IAA, Opel’s first front-wheel drive model with transverse four-cylinder engine debuted as the modern-looking Kadett D. Packaging was truly convincing. 4.20-metre-long newcomer was only slightly longer its predecessor was, but offered significantly more space than many of its rivals. But it was not only the powertrain layout and the chassis with a torsion-beam axle at the rear that broke with tradition: the Kadett was given a new 1.3-liter OHC engine that generated 60 or 75 hp. In addition to the spacious estate with a load volume of up to 1,425 litres, Opel offered only fastback versions. For families there was a very plush Caravan “Voyage Berlina”. Other technical modifications included a tighter and lower chassis, new steering dampers and internally ventilated disk brakes at the front. A total of 2.1 million Kadett D units were produced from 1979 to 1984.

1984-1991: Opel Kadett E Caravan

Out of the wind-tunnel: Car of The Year

Second front-wheel drive Kadett, built from 1984 to 1991, was named “Car of the Year 1984” and was an absolute winner. Selling a grand total of 3,779,289 cars in its lifetime, it was the bestselling Opel so far and a real aerodynamics world champion. Based on the engineering of its predecessor, the Kadett E was set for a stellar career. With a drag coefficient of 0.39, the Kadett D was already best in its class, but this figure paled in comparison to its successor. After spending 1,200 hours of fine-tuning in the wind tunnel, the five-door variant achieved a sensational 0.32 (Caravan 0,35). Buyers took to the new form after only a few months, paving the way for a new success story that provided the Kadett E with 625,000 new registrations across Europe in 1987. By this time, the two and four-door estate versions had already climbed to the top of the class. In 1987, two 54 hp Caravan diesels set out on a 30,000-kilometre trip from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego – both of them safely reach the final destination. From April 1989 onwards, all gasoline-engined Kadetts are sold with catalytic converter in Germany.

1991-1997: Opel Astra F Caravan

Reborn: Kadett becomes Astra

Some 4.13 million Astra Fs were built between 1991 and 1997, making it the bestselling Opel model ever. Development work focused on combining modern design with more interior space, enhanced comfort and greater emphasis on environmental protection.

Successor to the Kadett assumed the name of its British sister model (the fourth generation of the Kadett had been sold in the UK as the Vauxhall Astra since 1980). The Caravan is a popular variant from the start. Opel also launched a safety offensive with its new star. All Astras offered an active belt system with tensioners on the front seats belts, height-adjustable belts and seat ramps as well as side protection including double steel tube reinforcements in all the doors. For the first time, all engines came with catalytic converters.

1998-2004: Opel Astra G Caravan

Fully galvanized: Into the new millennium

In spring 1998, the Astra was offered from the start as a three and five-door hatchback and as a estate. Progressive independent design, dynamic chassis and powertrain technology as well as nearly twice the torsional and flexural rigidity of its predecessor were just some of the characteristics of the completely new, second-generation Opel Astra. New model’s fully galvanized body played a key role in its high value retention. Boot volume rises to 1630 litres; private buyers prefer the highly equipped Caravan Club with up to 115 hp. Active safety was enhanced with a 30 per cent increase in the light output of the transparent H7 halogen headlamps and the completely redesigned Dynamic Safety (DSA) chassis. It combined comfort with agile and safe handling, even under full load. Wheelbase was around eleven centimetres longer, enabling more interior space, in particular more rear knee room in the rear and a larger boot volume of up to 1,500 litres. Fastest compact station ever – Astra OPC Caravan – hit the road in 2002; the modest family wagon caused many surprises as it hurtled along the Autobahn at speeds up to 240 km/h.

2004-2010: Opel Astra H Caravan

Adaptive headlights and suspension: A winning concept

With twelve engines ranging from 90 to 240 hp and seven body variants, the choice of models for the Astra H that sold over 2.7 million units was exceptional. When it was launched in March 2004, the third-generation Opel Astra boasted a progressive design, high driving dynamics and plenty of technical innovations, immediately winning numerous comparison tests in specialist automotive publications. The Astra’s technological highlights included the adaptive IDSPlus chassis system with electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC), otherwise only found in luxury class and exclusive sports cars, as well as the Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) headlamp system with dynamic curve light. Astra also boasted high levels of safety. Caravan offered passengers plenty of space.

2010 – 2015: Opel Astra J Sports Tourer

Beauties can be useful too: First Sports Tourer

Sculptural artistry combined with German precision – the dynamic estate is launched one year after its five-door sibling and for the first time carries the Sports Tourer nameplate. The Opel Astra J not only embodies the brand’s new design philosophy, it also retains the clever Flex-Fold system, up to 1500 litres of useful space, and assists drivers with a range of technologies that already made an important contribution to the success of the best-selling mid-size Insignia. The front camera recognizes traffic signs and informs the driver of speed limits or overtaking bans. It also warns drivers if they are in danger of veering out of lane. With the AFL+ headlamp system, the Astra can look around the corner and, if necessary, even automatically dim the lights or switch to high beam. With a chassis that can be enhanced by the FlexRide adaptive technology, the Astra Sports Tourer can play out its dynamic talents to the full. Astra drivers also benefit from a new generation of front seats developed according to the latest findings in safety ergonomics which have been awarded the seal of quality from the independent medical and back experts of the AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs) organization.

From 2016: Opel Astra K Sports Tourer

Pure efficiency: Lean but not mean

Up to 190 kg lighter, significantly more spacious inside despite almost identical dimensions, and more efficient thanks to exclusive use of new-generation engines – Opel Astra Sports Tourer was a quantum leap in development and immediately voted “European Car Of The Year 2016”.

Astra K continued the tradition of its predecessors. New Sports Tourer also stood out with its lighting technology. It was the first car to introduce the adaptive, full LED matrix technology IntelliLux LED – so far reserved for luxury and premium models from higher classes – into the compact segment. New-generation driver assistance systems also included Traffic Sign Assist, Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning along with Following Distance Indication and Forward Collision Alert with Collision Imminent Braking. In addition, the new Astra K once again delivered on wellness with newly engineered ergonomic front seats, also certified by the AGR organization. These new front seats could even be enhanced with a ventilation and massage function.

As of 2022: Opel Astra L Sports Tourer

Electrifying: Stylish estate with Opel Vizor and Pure Panel

With the world premiere of the all-new Astra in autumn 2021 the German carmaker opened the next chapter – the compact model is available for the first time electrified, as five-door and Sports Tourer. Opel will offer the Astra Sports Tourer as plug-in hybrid and as of 2023 also as battery-electric estate. Variants with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines combined with six-speed and eight-speed automatic transmissions complete the line-up.

All-new Opel Astra Sports Tourer is also a design statement for the brand. Dynamic as never before, with sheer, taut surfaces, detoxed of superfluous elements and with the new brand face – the Opel Vizor. In addition, the practical new Astra Sports Tourer also displays the brand’s typical talent for efficient packaging. While the overall length is 6.0 cm shorter than that of the previous model, the wheelbase is 7.0 cm longer – bonus points for comfort and luggage volume. Inside, the fully digital Pure Panel human-machine-interface (HMI) offers customers a pure, intuitive experience.

Diamond Jubilee: Vauxhall celebrates 60 years of manufacturing at Ellesmere Port

• Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant is celebrating 60 years of manufacturing
• Diamond jubilee comes as Ellesmere Port looks ahead to producing the next generation of battery electric LCV and passenger car models
• £100 million investment in Ellesmere Port by parent group Stellantis was announced last year to support its transformation to electric vehicle manufacturing
• Stellantis commitment to net zero globally by 2038 and to halve carbon impact by 2030

Celebrations coincide with final Vauxhall Astra rolling off the production line with more than 4 million built at Ellesmere Port across seven generations

Vauxhall is celebrating an incredible 60 years of manufacturing at its Ellesmere Port plant ahead of its £100 million transformation into the first Stellantis plant to produce solely battery-electric models by the end of the year.

Ellesmere Port opened in 1962 and began as a production plant for the Vauxhall Viva. Since then it has produced iconic models from the Vauxhall range including the Chevette and successive generations of the Vauxhall and Opel Astra. In total, more than 5.2 million vehicles have rolled off the production lines at Ellesmere Port over the past 60 years.

The diamond jubilee comes as Ellesmere Port readies itself for a £100 million upgrade to become the first Stellantis plant to produce solely battery-electric models, from early next year.

The popular Vauxhall Combo-e and its Opel equivalent will be some of the first electric vehicles to be produced at Ellesmere when the plant reopens, along with Peugeot e-Partner and Citroën e-Berlingo vans. Ellesmere Port will also produce a range of passenger vehicles across the Stellantis brands including the Vauxhall Combo-e Life, Opel Combo-e Life, Peugeot e-Rifter and Citroën ë-Berlingo MPVs.

These light commercial vehicles, and their passenger car variants, are all powered by a 100 kW (136 hp) motor with a 50 kWh lithium-ion battery.  They can be charged at up to 100 kW and take just 30 minutes to charge from 0% to 80%, capable of up to 174 miles of range under WLTP conditions.

Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall & Senior Vice-President, Stellantis, said: “Over the last 60 years, Ellesmere Port has become one of the great British car plants, producing some of the most popular cars on the roads across generations. With one era closing, we’re now looking forward to an all-new electric era at Ellesmere, with the site becoming the first Stellantis plant to produce solely electric vehicles. Vauxhall is fast moving towards an electric future and I’m pleased to see the next-generation of Vauxhall electric vehicles made in Britain.” 

Vauxhall has committed to selling only electric vehicles from 2028, seven years ahead of the Government deadline, and the transformation at Ellesmere Port will ensure the UK remains at the forefront of electric vehicle manufacturing. The plant upgrade also forms a part of Stellantis’ commitment to become a carbon neutral group, globally, by 2038 – and to halve its carbon footprint by 2030, based on 2021 data. 

As Vauxhall looks ahead to the future electric vehicle production at Ellesmere Port, the plant is marking the end of production there for one of the brand’s most iconic models – Vauxhall Astra. Having first produced the Vauxhall Astra from 16th November 1981, then in its first generation, more than 4 million Astra models have been built at Ellesmere Port.

Production of the seventh generation Astra model came to a close on 6th April 2022.  The final Vauxhall Astra model to roll off the production line was an Astra Sport Tourer SRi Nav 1.2 Turbo Manual in Hot Red and the occasion was celebrated with a gathering of the plant workforce as well as former employees.  

6th April 2022: Last Vauxhall Astra rolls off production line

Work will now be undertaken to transform Ellesmere Port into an electric vehicle manufacturing centre when it restarts production in early 2023. 

Eighth generation All-New Astra, and Astra Sport Tourer, are now available to order and deliveries to UK customers are starting imminently.  Available now with plug-in hybrid technology, a fully electric version of both cars will also arrive next year as part of Vauxhall’s commitment to only sell fully electric vehicles from 2028. 

With over 90 years of history of manufacturing in the UK, Vauxhall is currently the only mainstream automotive brand to produce vans in Britain. Alongside Stellantis’ Ellesmere Port plant, Vauxhall continues to make vans at its factory in Luton, which has been operating since 1907 and stands as Britain’s oldest car factory.

All-New Opel Astra with Class-Leading IntelliLux LED Pixel Light

• Adaptive and bright as day: Newest IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements
• Triple-row Matrix: For near area, the bright-dark border and glare-free long range vision
• Best in class: Opel Astra with light system from Insignia and Grandland Opel flagships

Newest IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements

All-new Opel Astra is not only electrified for the first time, it also continues to bring state-of-the-art technologies to the compact class that customers have previously only known from more expensive cars. A real highlight that combines emotionally charged design with the utmost practicality is the newest generation of the adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel Light.

System – which is adopted from the Insignia and Grandland Opel flagships – is unique in the compact class and features 168 continuously reacting LED elements (84 per headlamp) that ensure that the light output is precisely adapted to the prevailing driving conditions, without glare for other road users.

“Drivers of the new Opel Astra enjoy the best night vision of all with IntelliLux LED Pixel Light”, said head of light technology, Ingolf Schneider. “This is engineering of the highest precision, made in Germany and accessible to all.”

Premium light in compact class: IntelliLux LED Pixel Light with triple-row Matrix

New Astra’s slim headlamps comprise a triple-row matrix with seamlessly flowing functions:

• In the near-field area, a long row of pixels continuously adapts the focus of the light to every cornering situation.

• Another row of finely defined and similarly fast reacting pixels ensures optimum range in the area where brightness and darkness meet.

• Actual Matrix function precisely “cuts” preceding and oncoming traffic out of the middle and upper pixel rows within milliseconds. Remaining areas continue to be fully illuminated. This means that Opel Astra driver always has “bright-as-day” light at his disposal, but without glare for other traffic. This enables the driver to identify objects such as signs or animals at the roadside at a distance that previously lay in darkness. Drivers can therefore react faster and sooner.

Design and technology in one: Opel Vizor as technology platform

New Astra’s IntelliLux LED Pixel Light headlamps, together with the LED daylight driving lamps and the indicators, are integrated in the Opel Vizor. Unique brand face thus becomes a technology platform as well as a powerful design element.

In its newest generation the best-selling Opel Astra continues its long standing role of making innovations affordable to many customers, both as five-door hatchback and as Opel Astra Sports Tourer estate. Previous Opel Astra generation (“2016 European Car Of The Year”) already brought the pioneering IntelliLux LED Matrix Light to the compact class in 2015.

2015: Opel Astra with IntelliLux LED Matrix Light

Opel and TU Darmstadt Start Close Cooperation in Light Technology

• OpenLabs: Stellantis operates global research network with universities
• Strategic partnership: TU Darmstadt is first OpenLab in Germany
• Five main areas of development: Communication and assistance systems, adaptive headlamps, rear lights, interior lighting, light sources

Objective: Scientific insights for use in future generations of automotive lighting

Opel and the Technical University of Darmstadt (TU Darmstadt) have begun joint research into new lighting technologies. Cooperation is part of the global Stellantis research network with respected universities. In currently 15 so-called “OpenLabs”, scientific knowledge is gained for use in technology systems of future vehicle generations. Strategic partnership with TU Darmstadt, the first Stellantis OpenLab in Germany, will enable a new era of lighting technologies. In addition, Stellantis is funding three doctoral students at the university’s Department of Electrical Engineering and Information Technology, initially for the next four years.

“Advanced adaptive light systems do so much more than just illuminate the road according to the prevailing conditions,” said Opel CEO Uwe Hochgeschurtz. “They are linked to numerous assistance systems and make driving safer and more comfortable. Together with TU Darmstadt, we want to develop all-new lighting systems and bring them to the market. We are pleased to be working with the science and research experts from TU Darmstadt.”

Out of the lab and into the car

Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD: Pixel-Vizor

Pixel-Vizor front end of the Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD already demonstrates how safety in road traffic can be increased via innovative lighting systems. “We take a holistic view of the subject of light. Light has a great relevance in many areas of the automobile, which goes far beyond the headlamps," explained Philipp Röckl, Lead Innovation Engineer Exterior Lighting. Research in the OpenLab at TU Darmstadt therefore focusses on the further development of communication and driver assistance systems, adaptive headlamps systems, rear lights, interior lighting and light sources in general.

Funded research will include an intelligent, self-adapting headlamp and tail-lamp system that optimally adapts to the environment and traffic situation as well as other influencing factors. Initial tests with a prototype are already planned for the end of the year. “We want to revolutionise automotive lighting with this technology, and accompany the development through all stages, from research to prototypes and testing to the finished product,” said Professor Tran Quoc Khanh, Head of the Department of Adaptive Lighting Systems and Visual Processing at the TU Darmstadt.

Cooperation accelerates safety gains on the road

For both cooperation partners, the new Open Lab means a win-win situation on the way to future light generations: Stellantis can draw on the expertise of the renowned TU Darmstadt to transfer research findings into vehicle systems and the TU's doctoral students can use the automotive company's technical infrastructure to test their developments in the field.

"We have been working with the experts in Professor Khanh's field for many years. This cooperation in the field of lighting technology will be intensified and strengthened in the long term by the OpenLab," adds Philipp Röckl. Current research project is initially scheduled for four years. However, the aim is to establish a strategic cooperation for the next ten years and beyond.

“If everything goes as planned, the first vehicles with the lighting technologies developed with Stellantis will be seen on the roads by 2028”, said Professor Khanh. “They will have one of the most intelligent lighting technologies in the world.”

IntelliLux LED Pixel Light already in today’s Opel Insignia, Grandland and Astra

Making innovative lighting technologies affordable for a broad range of buyers is a tradition at Opel, as the all-new Astra is currently demonstrating. In 2015, previous generation (“European Car of the Year 2016”) brought ground-breaking IntelliLux LED Matrix light to the compact class. 

2015: First in class - Opel Astra with IntelliLux LED Matrix light

Now the next stage of development has begun: IntelliLux LED Pixel light familiar from the Opel flagships Insignia and new SUV Grandland is celebrating its Astra premiere. 

2021: High-resolution premium lighting - All-New Opel Astra with IntelliLux LED Pixel light 

With a total of 168 LED elements – 84 per headlamp – compact class newcomer ensures a precise and seamless light pattern at all times, adapted to the situation and without dazzling other road users. LEDs are integrated in ultra-slim headlights. Main headlamp “cuts out” oncoming vehicles within milliseconds. Remaining areas continue to be illuminated with full high beam, for optimum visibility and safety at all times.

All-New Opel Astra with IntelliLux LED Pixel light: Glare-free high beams

All-New Opel Astra Launches with Premium LED Light from ZKW

All-New Opel Astra: IntelliLux LED Pixel Light

Intelligent, high-resolution Pixel Lite ensures better road safety and comfort ZKW installed the first version of the pioneering LED Matrix light in the Opel Astra in 2015. Now, the next stage of development is ready to launch: With a total of 168 LED elements (84 per headlamp), IntelliLux Pixel Lite developed by the Wieselburg lighting specialists delivers a precise and fluid lighting gradient tailored to the specific situation at hand, without creating glare for other road users. Light module and electronic components are integrated into the extra-slim front headlamps. IntelliLux precisely cuts out oncoming vehicles in just milliseconds. Other areas continue to be illuminated with full high beams. “Intelligent Pixel Lite used in the new Opel Astra is setting new standards in the compact class. It provides adaptive support to the driver, ensures driving comfort, and delivers more road safety” explains Oliver Schubert, CEO of the ZKW Group.

With a total of 168 LED elements (84 per headlamp) the compact class challenger ensures a precise and fluid light pattern at all times, without dazzling other road users

High-resolution premium lighting

IntelliLux LED Pixel Lite, which is already popular on the Opel models Insignia and Grandland, is now celebrating its debut on the all-new Opel Astra. ZKW has significantly improved and further developed the previous Matrix light. New IntelliLux has more, smaller segments, allowing it to achieve higher resolution and lighting quality: Compared to the previous Matrix system, new Pixel Light has not only vertical, but also horizontal segments for both high and low beams. Technology makes it possible to illuminate the gap created when masking the oncoming vehicle or vehicles traveling in front of the reference car. Other road users are recorded by a front camera, the signals from which control the LED module in the headlamp.

IntelliLux precisely cuts out oncoming vehicles in just milliseconds

Elegant design, Made in Austria

The “wing” design is a striking feature on the daytime running lights of the all-new Opel Astra – it uses specially developed micro-optics to deliver a homogeneous appearance, appearing evenly white when switched off. Exterior chrome plated designer panel underscores the side line of the Opel Astra, which travels over the main headlamp and the grill, and throughout the entire front of the vehicle. IntelliLux was developed at ZKW’s headquarters in Wieselburg. Pixel Lite controller was created through close collaboration between the Wieselburg engineers and the ZKW electronics plant in Wiener Neustadt, where the control modules are also produced.  IntelliLux LED Pixel Lite is manufactured at ZKW’s Slovakian location in Krusovce. in addition to the IntelliLux for the Opel Astra, ZKW also delivers the Opel Insignia headlamps.

Extra Stylish, Extra Safe: New Opel Astra Design & Tech

• New equipment line: Opel Astra Design & Tech with many extras
• Top design: Light-alloy wheels in Technical Grey, seats in fabric/premium leather look
• Top technology as standard: Front camera systems, dual-zone automatic climate control and automatic LED lighting system

Opel Astra Design & Tech 

Opel is making the versatile, highly efficient Astra even safer and even more stylish. The German carmaker has now extended the line-up of its best-selling model with the new “Design & Tech” trim level, which is available for prices starting at €23,780 (all prices RRP including VAT in Germany). Customers can personalise their Opel Astra five-door hatchback and estate still further with assistance and technology packs tailored exactly to the Design & Tech model variants.

All-inclusive: Top look, plus many safety and comfort features

Opel Astra Design & Tech – the name says it all. From the outside, the hatchback and estate shine with 16-inch 5 x twin-spoke alloy wheels in Technical Grey; the Sports Tourer also comes with silver-coloured roof rails. Design & Tech emblem identifies the Astra at first glance as a stylish new addition to the family. In the interior, the driver and front passenger can make themselves comfortable on multi-adjustable seats in black fabric/premium leather look. Decorative trim in piano black and ambient lighting for the front doors underline the high-quality appearance.

But the Opel Astra Design & Tech not only offers a lot for the eye, it also has numerous technology features on board that make driving even safer, more relaxed and more comfortable. Standard Eco LED headlights with high beam assist and tunnel detection, as well as equipment such as rain sensor and automatic dimming rear-view mirror, ensure optimum vision even in the dark. Front camera-supported assistance systems such as Forward Collision Alert with Automatic Emergency Braking and Lane Keep Assist prevent the risk of collisions.

In the “Design & Tech” models, the interior temperature can be regulated individually for the driver and front passenger as standard via the dual-zone automatic climate control. Daily necessities can be stored within easy reach in the sliding centre armrest, which in this equipment line is combined with practical cup holders and a space-saving electric parking brake.

How the compact class drives today: New assistance and technology packs

In addition, Opel Astra five-door and Sports Tourer can be further upgraded with the assistance and technology packs available exclusively for the Design & Tech variants. Assistance Pack offers safety features such as automatic parking assistant including park pilot for front and rear at a price of €940.

Another practical feature for manoeuvring in city traffic is the rear view camera, which makes parking easier with steering guidance lines. In the Digital Assistance Pack, available for €1,540, a digital reversing camera comes in combination with the top infotainment system Multimedia Navi Pro.

With the adaptive glare-free IntelliLux LED Matrix light, Technology Pack, which can be ordered for €1,950, has another real highlight in this vehicle class. Technology Pack also offers high-tech in the interior with the Multimedia Navi Pro infotainment system. Smartphones can be easily and conveniently charged during the journey via wireless charging.

Smooth Operator: Opel Astra with Efficient Stepless Transmission

• Almost infinite: variety of gear ratios optimises efficiency at all engine speeds
• High comfort: Astra’s stepless transmission delivers imperceptible gear shifts
• Perfect match: optimum balance of refinement and responsiveness
• Up to 21 per cent lower CO2: most efficient Opel Astra of all time

With the launch of the new Astra, Opel took the car industry by surprise by introducing a state-of-the-art stepless transmission on the Astra hatchback and estate. The typical smooth power delivery and high efficiency of the stepless transmission is a perfect match for the new generation of the award-winning Opel Astra (European Car Of The Year 2016). In combination with the 107 kW (145 hp) 1.4-litre, Direct Injection Turbo petrol engine (NEDC fuel consumption1: 6.3 l/100km urban, 4.3-4.2 l/100km extra-urban, 5.1-5.0 l/100km and 116-114 g/km CO2 combined), the stepless transmission (aka Continuously Variable Transmission or CVT) brings a refined, frugal and lively power unit to the brand’s powertrain portfolio. With a completely new generation of engines and transmissions, the Opel Astra sets standards for low emissions, putting it at the top of the compact class. This new Astra is the most efficient ever with up to 21 per cent lower CO2 emissions than the predecessor. Five of the seven powertrain combinations on offer even undercut the magical 100 gram mark for CO2 emissions per kilometre driven (NEDC 1).

Smart operating principle: Two pulleys and chain belt instead of gears and clutches

Peter Naumann, Global Program Manager and acting Chief Engineer Automatic Transmissions in Rüsselsheim, explains how stepless transmissions work: “Operating principle is smart and simple. In contrast to a traditional torque converter automatic transmission that has planetary gears, clutches and fixed gear ratios, a stepless transmission has two pulleys connected by a chain belt under tension. Between the outsides of the pulleys, there is a conical shaft, which the chain belt sits on. By continuously adapting the space between the pulleys, you get a variable gear ratio, because the change of the contact surface alters the diameter. This is comparable to transmitting torque from small to big gears and vice versa. Finally, one planetary gear set on the input shaft is still required in order to select forward or reverse driving.”

Due to the almost infinite availability of gear ratios, powertrains with a stepless transmission operate at the most efficient point across all engine speed bandwidths. Peter Naumann: “For each operation point, the transmission enables the powertrain to find the optimum balance of fuel efficiency, attenuation of noise and vibrations, and accelerator pedal responsiveness.”

“Cars with low weight and powertrains producing maximum torque of 230-300 Nm are most suitable for stepless transmissions”, says Naumann. “With 236 Nm of torque and a kerb weight of 1,350kg, the new Astra 1.4 is therefore ideal.”

Great idea: Stepless transmissions in automotive development

Idea of a stepless or shiftless transmission is not new. American engineer Milton Reeves invented a variable speed transmission for saw milling way back in 1879, which he then applied to his first automobile in 1896.

Numerous variations on the stepless-theme followed in the 1920s, on motorcycles as well as automobiles. George Constantinesco, an engineer and inventor from Romania, created one of the most interesting in 1926. The “Constantinesco Car” featured a 5hp engine with an integrated torque converter. According to advertisements, it was the car with “No clutch, no gears, only one control – the accelerator”!

It took until 1958 for the stepless concept to become more widely known. At the Amsterdam Motor Show, DAF presented the 600 small family car with its innovative Variomatic transmission. Designed by Dutchman Hub van Doorne, the Variomatic made the little DAF sedan famous, among other things, for driving backwards as fast as forwards! Thereafter, stepless transmissions appeared on all sorts of machines, from tractors and snowmobiles to motorbikes and all-terrain vehicles, as well as automobiles.

Opel offered its first example in the Vectra C, which made its debut in 2002. However, the career of the “CVTronic” was short-lived, with production at the Szentgotthard factory in Hungary ending in 2005.

Suitable for a variety of vehicles: From small cars and SUVs to vans and hybrids

Today, “stepless” is making a comeback, aided by the increasingly strict global targets for fuel consumption and CO2 emissions. Because stepless transmissions adjust gear ratios continuously, the engine can always run at its most efficient speed, which saves fuel, especially in city driving.

As a result, they are available on a variety of automobiles, such as small cars and limousines, SUVs, minivans and hybrids. However, modern stepless transmissions are notable for more than just their high efficiency. They are also popular with drivers and passengers who appreciate the imperceptible shifting of gears.

Stepless transmissions are already common in Asian markets, where their smooth and quiet performance makes them very popular. New Opel Astra with 1.4 engine and stepless transmission is perfect for customers looking for a compact hatchback or estate car with an automatic transmission that offers not only lower noise and vibrations but also moderate fuel consumption and good responsiveness.

[1] Fuel consumption and CO2-emission data given have been determined according to WLTP test procedure methodology, and the relevant values are translated back into NEDC to allow the comparability with other vehicles, according to regulations R (EC) No. 715/2007, R (EU) No. 2017/1153 and R (EU) No. 2017/1151.

Investments in the Rüsselsheim plant for the production of a third model

• Model of the brand DS Automobiles comes in addition to Opel Insignia and Astra successor
• Transformation of the plant into a future-proof location for the production of electrified vehicles thanks to the next generation of ultra-modern platform

Groupe PSA is investing in the future of the Rüsselsheim plant: A new model from the premium brand DS Automobiles will be produced in Hesse from summer 2021. Plant will therefore be producing three models from the end of next year: Because in addition to the Opel Insignia, which is already manufactured in Rüsselsheim, the next generation of the Opel Astra will follow at the end of 2021. Investments allow the Rüsselsheim plant to become a sustainable location for vehicle production, including electrified models - thanks to the localization of the Group's EMP2 platform.

“This strategic decision by Groupe PSA is a great sign of confidence in our main plant and our highly qualified employees. Investment will strengthen vehicle production at the Rüsselsheim location in the long term with an expanded product range. I am very happy to have this great news for our Rüsselsheim employees who deserve the addition of a third model, ”said Groupe PSA board member and Opel boss Michael Lohscheller.

Management and social partners will now be discussing the plan to develop the Rüsselsheim plant into a manufacturing facility for an expanded portfolio of electrified vehicles. This includes the intention to phase out the decline in production of the M1X transmission in the course of 2021. The transmission is currently being installed in the current Opel Astra, which will be launched in the next generation in Rüsselsheim next year.

“Plant in Rüsselsheim has demonstrated the ability to improve its competitiveness with a focus on performance and quality. It is a clear cornerstone of Groupe PSA's global vehicle manufacturing network. I trust that the management in Rüsselsheim will also face the future challenges facing the automotive industry, ”said Yann Vincent, Executive Vice President Manufacturing & Supply Chain at Groupe PSA.

Take a Deep Breath – Thanks to Pollen Filters in Every New Opel

• Hay fever relief: activated carbon filters in Opel models
• Top quality: filters meet the highest requirements
• Something in the air: alder, hazel, ash and birch approaching
• Survival tips: correct behaviour in the pollen season

As the temperature rises, people with hay fever start to suffer. Those traveling in an Opel automobile can count themselves lucky. Since 2000, all Opel cars are equipped as standard with various filter systems – either original Opel particle or activated carbon filters. Tradition-rich German carmaker installs mainly activated carbon combination filters. These consist of two layers and can therefore not only keep particles out the interior, but also filter out gases such as ozone and odours, thanks to the activated carbon. Best of all, pollen is almost 100 per cent eliminated, so that buyers of both new and used Opel cars can breathe deeply while driving.

"Quality of the activated carbon combination filter surpasses the market standards in numerous areas and in some cases even meets requirements for fine particulate filters," says Product Manager, Sandra Schmickler. Filter material is water-repellent, which prevents it from freezing in winter or becoming home to bacteria. Despite the high filter performance, a good air permeability is ensured. The filter should be changed once a year.

In many cases, the activated carbon combination filter can also be retrofitted – even to older Opel models such as the Calibra or the Vectra C. Retrofitting can be a bit tricky and is therefore best carried out by an Opel dealer.

Correct behaviour in the pollen season

"In general, with high pollen concentration, you should only drive a car with the windows closed," recommends Opel’s chief medical officer, Dr. Anne-Marie Albuszies. This also benefits road safety – if drivers have to sneeze more often, risk of accidents increases. It is best to get advice beforehand about the current pollen forecast, for example, from the local weather service. "In the coming weeks, the hazel allergies will start, as well as ash and birch," explains Dr. Albuszies. Over the summer, grass becomes the problem. Hay fever can plague allergy sufferers March through October.

Motorists should also definitely refrain from medication, because the so-called antihistamines make you drowsy. Clothes should be taken off in the bathroom, not in the bedroom, adds the physician, and hair washed in the evening so that pollen does not get on the pillow. A rinse with sodium chloride in the morning and evening calms an irritated nose and a damp cloth over the eyes soothes the itching.

Dealer premiere for all-new Opel Corsa and new Opel Astra

• Approachable: Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller visits car dealership Günther & Schmitt
• Enthusiastic: First test rides with all-new Opel Corsa and new Astra
• Successful: Opel Bestellers now even more efficient and dynamic

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller visits car dealership Günther & Schmitt

After the world premiere of the all-new Opel Corsa and the new Opel Astra at the IAA in Frankfurt, customers could now for the first time experience the two newcomers to the Opel partners on site themselves. Numerous visitors took the opportunity for a trip to the dealership and took the new Opel models under the microscope. Which technologies are under the hood ? How do the assistance systems work ? And how economical are the engines of the two Opel bestsellers ? These and many other questions answered the Opel employees knowledgeable in the car dealerships. At the same time many guests did not miss the opportunity to test the models themselves or to arrange appointments for the next days.

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller with New Opel Astra

"All-new Opel Corsa with its numerous top technologies shows what we make possible for our customers in the small car segment. And with the new Opel Astra, we have the most efficient Astra ever. We are all the more pleased with the great response from our customers and guests, who want to get to know our two new models on the first day, "says Michael Lohscheller. CEO attended the dealer premiere of all-new Opel Corsa and new Astra at the Opel partner Günther & Schmitt in Kriftel.

Opel CEO Michael Lohscheller with All-new Opel Corsa 

In addition to the two novelties lured treats from the grill. For this, the Opel partners had come up with additional program points throughout Germany to make the premiere day at the dealership an experience for young and old alike.

Car dealership Günther & Schmitt

Corsa and Astra: Opel customers now even more efficient and dynamic

Sixth generation of the Corsa and the new Astra impress with their best efficiency, high driving dynamics, great comfort and state-of-the-art assistance systems. For example, the all-new Opel Corsa already shines in the entry-level version available from 13,990 euros (UPE incl. VAT) with electronic helpers such as the front collision warning system with automatic emergency braking and pedestrian recognition. Also in demand at the dealership premiere were the new equipment lines offered for the first time: Comfort lovers appreciate the "Elegance" trim, the "GS Line" is aimed at customers who like it sporty in terms of design, equipment and driving experience.

One vehicle class higher, the new Opel Astra at the starting price of 19,990 euros (UPE incl. VAT) at the dealers before: the most efficient Astra of all time with up to 21 percent less CO2 emissions than the previous model. Five of the seven offered drive combinations even undercut the 100 gram mark in terms of CO2 emissions per kilometer driven. With a completely new generation of engines and newly developed transmissions, the new Opel Astra sets standards in terms of low emissions.

High Efficiency: New Opel Corsa and New Opel Astra with Energy-Saving LED Headlights

• Each headlight consumes only 13 Watt on dipped beam
• Savings of up to 1.3 grams CO2 per kilometre in New European Driving Cycle (NEDC)
• Special reflector technology ensures optimum brightness

New Opel Astra Sports Tourer with Energy-Saving LED Headlights

Optimum light output, minimum energy consumption. In order to further reduce CO2 emissions, Opel is offering highly efficient LED headlights on the new Astra and the new Corsa. The newest generations of these bestselling models made their debut a few days ago at the IAA Frankfurt International Motor Show.

New Opel Corsa with Energy-Saving LED Headlights

Emissions of the new Opel Corsa are very low – not only because the sixth generation of the best-selling small car is powered by highly efficient engines. New Opel Corsa is also optionally available with especially efficient LED lighting. Each headlight consumes only 13 Watt. That is an energy saving of 81 per cent compared with halogen, which gobbles up around 70 Watt per headlight. But this does not mean that customers must accept compromises in light output; on the contrary, thanks to a special reflector technology, LED headlights turn night into day.

New Opel Corsa is also optionally available with especially efficient LED lighting.

“New Corsa and Astra continue the Opel tradition of leadership in innovation”, said Ingolf Schneider, head of lighting technology at Opel. “Our development objective was to bring optimum light with minimum consumption to our cars. In future we want to use energy-saving LED lighting throughout the vehicle.”

On average, the LED headlights on the entry-level Corsa alone save 1.3 grams of CO2 per kilometre (according to NEDC). With the petrol turbo engine it is 1.38 g/km and 1.23 g/km with the diesel (fuel consumption NEDC1: urban 5.5-3.7 l/100km, extra-urban 4.2-2.9 l/100km, combined 4.7-3.2 l/100km, 106-85g/km CO2; fuel consumption WLTP2 combined: 6.2-4.0 l/100km, 140-105g/km CO2).

Opel Astra five-door saves 1.26 g/km CO2 (according to NEDC). The petrol turbo scores with 1.34 g/km CO2, the diesel with 1.19 (fuel consumption NEDC1: urban 6.3-3.9 l/100 km, extra-urban 4.3-3.1 l/100 km, combined 5.1-3.4 l/100 km, 116-90 g/km CO2; fuel consumption WLTP2 combined: 6.1-4.3, 141-112 g/km CO2; preliminary figures).

Instead of measuring emissions on a dynamometer, Opel’s engineers obtain the possible CO2 savings of a light source versus halogen more efficiently with the help of a mathematical formula. Calculation considers, among other things, how much wattage each light source actually saves in comparison to halogen, as well as the fact that drivers usually only use dipped beam in darkness, which accounts for just one third of all driving. Accordingly, only one third of the total drive-duration is included in the calculation.

One question remaining concerns the optimum light output at reduced wattage. Opel compensates for the lower electrical power of the LEDs with special reflector technology. Reflector of each headlight is shaped like a shovel so that the maximum amount of light from each LED is projected onto the road. New LED headlights from Opel are therefore extremely efficient, not only in energy consumption but also in terms of form and light-output.

New Opel Astra: Reflector of each headlight is shaped like a shovel so that the maximum amount of light from each LED is projected onto the road.