!NEW! “We want to be the emotional German brand.”

Vice President Design for Opel/Vauxhall Mark Adams about what the future holds for Opel design

Vice President Design for Opel/Vauxhall Mark Adams with Opel Monza concept

Mark Adams knows a thing or two about car design. As the man behind Opel’s looks, the Vice President Design for Opel/Vauxhall has managed to seamlessly forge sculptured design with German engineering. It’s not merely about functionality, though, but bringing out the emotional aspect. Adams, speaking on the occasion of the World Graphic Design Day on Sunday April 27, reveals his design philosophy and gives a sneak preview of the shape of things to come in the future.

Mark, good design must be ahead of its time for people to appreciate it for years to come. How does this affect your work ?

Mark Adams: I definitely agree. And I can think of some good examples among our cars, for example the latest Corsa. When we launched it on the market, it was a breath of fresh air compared to the competition. Even now after several years, its looks have endured. To achieve this, it takes a strong design statement that goes beyond the customer’s expectations. The Calibra and the Corsa B already followed this line of thinking. Right now, the Insignia is an excellent case in point. It looks as good now as it did back when it was launched.

Opel Calibra (1990)

What was your first project when you joined the company in 2002 ?

Opel Insignia concept car, which actually didn’t have a name back then. We started working on it two months after I arrived. It was to be presented at the IAA 2003. I wanted to do something with it that would be more sculpted, more emotional, but that would also carry the technical quality found in our brand. While working on the Opel Insignia concept, we sowed the seeds for what was to become our new design philosophy. I came up with the motto ‘sculpted design meets German engineering’ in 2005. I remember saying to my team, “You know what? That’s it, that’s what we’ll call it!”

Opel Insignia concept car (2003)

And so the Opel design language was given a name…

Not the design language, but rather the design philosophy. There is a difference. A lot of competitors back then had their own design language. But they never lasted. We wanted to create consistency. A design philosophy, as I understand it, is something sustainable and enduring. It can be valid for a hundred years. That’s what I wanted to get across to my team. So I took specific models from Opel’s history. I asked my team, “Could the Opel GT from the 60s be described as ‘sculpted design meets German engineering’?” The answer was yes, it could. So we pursued it. The Opel Insignia was our first modern-day production car that carried these values. But it is also easy to imagine how cars could continue to follow this philosophy in 2060 and still be contemporary.

Opel Insignia (2014)

The good thing is that our philosophy doesn’t limit us, but gives us a lot of creative freedom instead. It provides a frame within which we can work, yet it doesn’t restrict us. We have a very broad range of customers, which is why we need different cars each with its own individual personality. This frame allows us to design these kinds of cars. We have carried this philosophy with every new vehicle since the Insignia. It is currently reflected in our entire model range: The Astra, Meriva, and Zafira Tourer all embody it. So do the cars that have expanded our portfolio – the Ampera, Mokka, ADAM, and Cascada. For example, the ADAM is clearly an Opel, but it has a totally different personality than the Insignia.

And is this what you want to carry on into the future generations of vehicles ?

Exactly. Now comes the next phase: The seed for Opel Design 2.0 has been planted in the Opel Monza concept, which will define the design of our production vehicles for the next eight to 10 years. It takes some of the well-known features, gives them a fresh, new interpretation, and executes them in a contemporary way.

Opel Monza concept

How do you plan on transferring the character of a concept with gull-wing doors into a five-seat production vehicle with a roomy trunk ?

The Opel Monza may be a vision, but it’s not that far removed. It’s important for it to remain accessible to everyone, which is why we like to think in eight to 10-year cycles. The next cycle will take us to Opel Design 3.0, which will integrate new trends and technologies while remaining consistent with our philosophy. If you compare the Insignia concept and the Monza concept, you can see the connection, the DNA link.

Opel Monza concept

What else does the Opel Monza concept stand for ?

It is inspiring and visionary. It stands for outstanding efficiency and connectivity. I’m certain that LED projection technology and human-machine interfaces will have been perfected in a few years. Today, drivers use a touchscreen to communicate, but voice recognition will soon take over. This also contributes significantly to safety since it allows drivers to keep their hands on the wheel. And Opel intends to be the leader in this field with our next generation of cars. Our focus is on making vehicles simple to use. The new central console of the Insignia is a step in this direction. The infotainment system of the ADAM is already very good. Our high-speed mobile communications connection OnStar is a harbinger of things to come. Connectivity is a very important field for us. Broadly speaking, the interior will take on a greater importance. OK, the exterior design is what everyone sees. But 99 percent of the time, you’re inside the car.

 Opel Monza concept - Interior with LED projection technology

Does Opel offer added value through design in comparison to its competitors ?

Yes. Our design philosophy also plays an important role in the purchase decision. The head and the heart are both involved. We try to combine the two. The sculpted design speaks to the heart, the emotional side. On the other side we have German engineering with values like technology, precision, structure and quality. When you look at our cars, you get an instant emotional reaction. You think, “Wow, what a great design!” Look again and you then get a sense of the solid technological foundation – that’s our unique selling point. We want to be the emotional German brand.

Vice President Design for Opel/Vauxhall Mark Adams: “ When you look at our cars, you get an instant emotional reaction. You think, ‘Wow, what a great design!’ 

Mark Adams was born in London (England) in 1961. He studied engineering and design, completing his bachelor degree in Mechanical and Automotive Engineering and reading a Master’s degree in Automotive Design at the Royal College of Art in London. He held various executive positions in design at Ford before taking the role of head of Exterior Design for GM Europe in 2002. He was instrumental in the design of the Antara, Astra TwinTop, Corsa, Zafira Tourer and Astra GTC. In 2007, he was appointed Vice President Design for Opel/Vauxhall and has continued leaving his unique mark on the current sculptured look that has become synonymous with Opel.

!NEW! Opel Astra now with new 1.6 CDTI Euro 6 Turbo-Diesel engine and IntelliLink technology

• Super economic: New 1.6 CDTI with 100 kW/136 hp consumes only 3.9 liters per 100 km
• Ultra-modern infotainment system: IntelliLink with seven inch color monitor
• Attractive offer: Active-Package with top quality seats and infotainment

Opel Astra hatchback 1.6 CDTI  consumes just 3.9 liters diesel per 100 kilometers

The Opel Astra enters the new model year fiercely with the new generation 1.6 liter CDTI diesel engine and IntelliLink infotainment system with Bluetooth interface. Just one year on from when the entire restyled Astra family entered the market.

Opel Astra Sports Tourer 1.6 CDTI  (100 kW/136 hp)

The complete new 1.6 CDTI engine represents the next step in Opel’s powertrain offensive and may be characterized by an exceptionally quiet running performance. In addition, the engine is Euro 6 compliant and consumes just 3.9 liters diesel per 100 kilometers – a stunning 7 percent less than its 1.7 liter 130 hp predecessor with Start/Stop. High-tech is also very much present in the Astra’s interior: The new IntelliLink infotainment system brings the world of smartphones into the car – easily controllable and clearly arranged on a seven inch color display.

Opel Astra Sports Tourer with new 1.6 CDTI  Euro 6 engine

“Opel stands for the democratization of high-tech technologies and high quality features. Traditionally, we make innovations from premium vehicle classes available to a wider customer base and are dedicated to continuing to do so, says Opel CEO Dr Karl Thomas Neumann. We have just demonstrated this with our revolutionary IntelliLink technology in our new Insignia and the same is true for our Astra family. More Opel models will follow, true to the motto: ‚more car for a highly attractive price.’

Smooth diesel: Brand new 1.6 CDTI with just 3.9l/100km and 104g/km CO2

Opel Astra limousine 1.6 CDTI 

The Opel Astra has been classified the most reliable German compact car according to leading German car magazine auto motor und sport (Edition 12/2013) and offers also a wide  portfolio of petrol- LPG and diesel power trains. The Model Year highlight in the Astra five-door model, the limousine and Sports Tourer is the entirely new 1.6 CDTI. This extremely efficient whisper diesel by Opel is already today compliant with the Euro-6 emissions regulation. And it creates a stir with 100 kW/136 hp and 320 Newton meters of maximum torque – seven percent more than its 1.7 liter predecessor. It also consumes less fuel, emits fewer CO2 emissions and is quieter than its 1.7 liter predecessor. The Astra accelerates from 0 – 100 in 10.3 seconds; in fifth gear the engines goes from 80 to 120 km/h in just 9.2 seconds. The maximum speed is 200 km/h. The Astra 1.6 CDTI shows it combines high performance, impressive torque and highest efficiency through low fuel consumption. In combined cycle Opel Astra 1.6 CDTI needs an exemplary 3.9 liters per 100 kilometers, adding up to CO2 emissions of only 104 grams per kilometer. A strong statement in terms of environmental friendliness and cost of ownership!

New 1.6 CDTI  Euro 6 engine with 100 kW/136 hp

Furthermore, the new 1.6 CDTI is first in class for noise and vibration thanks to an efficient combustion process with multiple injection, the optimized design of its components and the use of acoustic covers. The result for drivers and passengers alike is quiet and convincing. The new 1.6 CDTI by Opel can truly be called a whisper diesel.

Optimally linked up: IntelliLink technology now also in the Opel Astra

Not just under the hood but also in the field of Infotainment, the Opel Astra is one hundred percent up-to-date. The ultra-modern IntelliLink system integrates smartphone functions into the car and impresses with a seven inch high-resolution color monitor that guarantees simple operation and ease of reading. As a new feature with the CD 600 IntelliLink Infotainment system, telephone calls via Bluetooth and audio streaming are possible. The system also features a USB connection.

Opel Astra now comes with  IntelliLink system which integrates smartphone functions into the car via 7 inch high-resolution color monitor 

The very rapid and precisely reacting navigation system comes as standard with the Navi 650 IntelliLink and Navi 950 IntelliLink. The top variant Navi 950 IntelliLink covers the whole of Europe with its maps and destinations can be entered without a problem via voice control. Furthermore, the radio automatically recognizes music titles, albums and artists through audio devices with a USB connection Via USB and Aux-In Astra drivers and passengers can be shown pictures on the color display. In addition, incoming text messages can be read out.

Attractive appearance: Active-package with IntelliLink, LED Daytime Running Lights and comfort seats

Opel not only offers groundbreaking technologies as well as numerous safety and comfort details in the Astra, the car manufacturer also packages these for customers in particularly advantageous option packs. The new Active- option pack has special features such as energy-saving LED daytime running lights, the CD 600 IntelliLink system including color display, Aux-In, USB and hands-free equipment via Bluetooth interface, as well as Piano Black Décor Moldings in the cockpit. As a back-friendly eye-catcher with feel-good warranty, there are additionally comfort seats in classy, sporty-looking fabric-leather style.

Downloads: Opel Astra MY 14.5 Price list (GER)

New Opel Astra J BiTurbo – Most powerful Diesel Astra Ever

• Astra line-up now with new 195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI, 400 Nm torque
• Top speed of up to 226 km/h, fuel consumption as low as 4.9 l/100 km
• Available as five door, GTC coupé and Sports Tourer station wagon
• Sporty, sharpened design underscores dynamic performance
• Sophisticated sequential BiTurbo technology with Twin Intercooler system
  
  
  
  
  The Opel Astra line-up is being enhanced with a new diesel spearhead of power: the four cylinder 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI engine with 143 kW/195 hp and 400 Nm maximum torque. It is available in three body styles: the five door hatchback, the GTC coupé and the Sports Tourer station wagon. No other brand offers this broad choice of high performance diesel models in the compact segment. The five door Astra BiTurbo CDTI achieves a top speed of 226 km/h, making it the fastest Astra diesel ever (Sports Tourer 222 km/h, GTC 223 km/h). While providing powerful performance and driving fun, the BiTurbo engine is also highly efficient. In combination with fuel saving Start/Stop technology which is standard across all Astra BiTurbo models, the GTC only uses 4.9l/100 km (Sports Tourer and five door 5.1 l/100km) Emissions for the GTC are 129 g/km (134 g/m for the hatchback and station wagon).
  Launched early 2012 in the Opel flagship Insignia, the 195 hp powerhouse engine introduces sophisticated sequential BiTurbo technology to the Astra family which comes with a twin intercooler system. The new Astra high performance diesel  variants can be ordered starting in the fall and are scheduled to be available at dealerships by the end of this year.
  
  
  Smooth acceleration without turbo lag
  Depending on the load range in the Astra BiTurbo four cylinder diesel engine, two turbochargers of different sizes work either separately or together. The smaller turbocharger accelerates especially quickly at low engine speeds. This means the accelerator pedal responds well and the undesired “turbo lag” effect is prevented. Starting at 1,250 rpm, the driver can already draw on 320 Nm – this is 80 percent of the maximum torque of 400 Nm which is available between 1,750 and 2,500 rpm.
  
  
  

  In the mid range of rpm, both turbochargers operate together, with the larger turbocharger pre compressing the intake air, before it is fully compressed in the smaller one. A bypass valve is controlled continuously to pass on part of the exhaust gases to the larger turbo. As a result, the driver still enjoys smooth acceleration. At higher rpm (from around 3,000 rpm) all the gases flow directly to the larger turbocharger, maintaining the fluid power delivery at higher speeds.
  
  
  

  The main focus in the development of the 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI engine was to ensure a rapid build up of charge air pressure in the low rpm range, while giving the accelerator responsiveness in the mid rpm range. The engine air is ideally adjusted according to the rpm range and the needs of the two turbochargers of different size. At low rpms an additional cooler that is exclusively linked to the small turbocharger ensures that the small volume of air passes in a direct path to the combustion chamber. In the mid rpm range, the bigger and more powerful turbocharger becomes increasingly involved. Its larger stream of air is cooled by a bigger cooler.
  
  
  

  As the layout of the Astra engine compartment is different to the Insignia, engineers went for a clever packaging solution by splitting the intercooler module internally into the smaller and larger cooler. This differs from the Insignia BiTurbo engine where the coolers are in separate locations. Both coolers in Astra BiTurbo engine are air cooled.
  
  
  Sporty and sharp design inside and out underscores high performance
  
  
  

  The new BiTurbo high performance diesel variants of the five door, Sports Tourer and GTC have been given an even a sharper and more aggressive exterior appearance varying from body style to body style and adapted to each specific model. The front fascias of the BiTurbo Astra body versions (GTC, Sports Tourer and five-door) underscore the cars’ high performance and more aggressive nature. The upper grille has a similar shape as the one used on the Astra GTC, however the front bar is always in body color and the five door hatchback and Sports Tourer BiTurbo models feature the new wing shaped bar across the grille. The lower air intake area has also been given a sporty design treatment: the area where the central grille merges into the outer grille has been sculpted in a shark fin like shape, making the car appear more aggressive.  The entire side window surround of the five door and Sports Tourer models is in chrome, while in the case of the GTC Biturbo the lower window insert is black. In all variants, there are  two exhaust tail pipes at the rear as well as a pronounced rear bumper shape that is specifically adapted to the model. These features give the car an added muscular stance.
  
  
  

  Inside the cabin of the Astra BiTurbo variants, JetBlack colored fabrics or leather are combined with Magic Red in the edge of the seats. Magic red stitching and seams in the seats, door inserts and the gear shifter boot add to the sporty atmosphere of the interior. A new flat bottom leather steering wheel and special floor mats with red surrounds are other sporty components of the Astra BiTurbo cabin.
  
  
  BiTurbo versions benefit from broad Astra technology offer
  The now most powerful diesel, the Opel Astra BiTurbo, also benefits from many of the safety and comfort increasing premium features available in the new Astra line-up. They include the second generation Opel Eye front camera with the enhanced Traffic Dign Assistant (TSA II), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Following Distance Indication (FDI) and Forward Collision Alert (FCA). A rear view camera is available in the Sports Tourer and five door BiTurbo models.
  
  
  The new systems complement the already existing broad Astra offer of innovative technologies, some of which are unique in the compact segment, while others are rarely found among competitors. One of these is the latest generation intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) with Bi-Xenon headlamps and a host of sophisticated lighting functions, including high beam assist, dynamic curve light, cornering light, and variable light distribution that automatically adjusts according to prevailing conditions, including even the weather.
  

  
  

  FlexRide for top driving dynamics – GTC with HiPerStruts

  The drive dynamics of the BiTurbo variant of the Astra were further improved by modifying bushings, reducing trim height with stiffer springs and including a new rear axle with higher roll rate.

  
  

  

  On top of the already dynamic driving characteristics of the Astra, customers can opt for Opel’s intelligent mechatronic FlexRide system which adjusts automatically to the prevailing driving conditions and offers three modes: Standard, the comfort oriented “Tour” mode and the more active “Sport” mode. The FlexRide system was especially adapted for the BiTurbo to guarantee good ride performance together with the higher level of vehicle responsiveness.

  Like all Astra GTC and OPC models, the Astra GTC BiTurbo variant features HiPerStruts (High Performance Struts) as standard on the front wheel suspensions for an even sportier ride and handling. The HiPerStruts improve grip, increase cornering power and significantly reduce torque steer allowing drivers to get the most out of the performance capabilities.

  For extra comfort, ergonomic front seats are offered across all Astra models including the BiTurbo versions. The AGR certified seats (Aktion Gesunder Rücken) are easy on the backs of the driver and front passenger.

  
  

  

  Another optional feature that adds an extra premium note to the cabin of the GTC models including the BiTurbo and OPC variants is the Panoramic windscreen. The exclusive windscreen patented by Opel reaches all the way to the middle of the car roof, giving the driver and all passengers an extraordinary visual, space and driving experience. 
  
  30. August 2012 UPDATE: Autoexpress UK wrote: For a clever mix of performance, practicality and low running costs, the Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo makes a strong case for itself. It’s fun to drive, very quick and great value compared to its fiercest rival, the VW Golf GTD.
  
  

  Read more at: http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/vauxhall/astra/59962/vauxhall-astra-biturbo

  
  

New Opel Astra J range: More Variety, Engines and High-Tech Features

·         New powerful engines: 195 hp 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI and 280 hp 2.0 SIDI Turbo unit

·         Full spectrum: From 99g/km CO₂ ecoFLEX to high performance OPC version

·         New assistance systems extend broad offer of innovative technology

·         Sharper design underscores sporty style and high technical standards

·         New sedan completes Astra J line-up

     

With the new sedan, the five door variant, the Sports Tourer station wagon and the three door GTC coupé as well as its high performance OPC version, the diverse Astra line up is now complete.

New engines that as of now and during the next six months will expand the already diverse performance spectrum of the Astra powertrain offer. The new Astra OPC which can already be ordered with its 2.0 turbocharged direct injection gasoline engine promises lots of fun behind the wheel. With an output of 206 kW/280 hp and maximum torque of 400 Newtonmeters, the Astra OPC is not only the most powerful Astra ever but also the fastest: the top speed of this powerhouse coupé is 250 km/h and it can sprint from standstill to 100 km/h in just 6.0 seconds.

The fastest diesel Astra ever can be ordered starting in the fall: The new 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI with 143 kW/195 hp output and an impressive 400 Nm of torque is already known from the Insignia, but now for the first time introduces the sophisticated sequential BiTurbo engine technology to the mass production compact segment. Powered by two turbochargers that work together, this engine enables excellent performance combined with low fuel consumption in the Astra five door, the Sports Tourer and the GTC. These three different body styles provide a choice of a high performance diesel models that is unparalleled in the compact segment.

Opel can also announce enhancements to its already existing 1.4 liter turbocharged gasoline unit with 103 kW/140 hp. This engine is now equipped with an overboost function that temporarily gives the vehicle an extra 10 percent burst of torque from 200 to 220 Nm which is very useful when overtaking for example.

Full spectrum – from 99 g/km CO₂ ecoFLEX to high performance OPC variant

On the powertrain side, the new Astra line-up is able to satisfy an extraordinary array of customer wishes, from the most fuel efficient Astra ever, the 1.7 CDTI ecoFLEX (81 kW/110 hp and 96 kW/130 hp) with only 99 g/km CO₂ (3.7 l/100 km) to the strongest diesel-powered Astra with its new 195 hp BiTurbo CDTI engine and the most powerful Astra in history, the new Astra OPC with 280 hp. Not forgetting the recent launch of the 1.4 turbocharged LPG versions (103 kW/140 hp) at the start of 2012, the powertrain offer of the Astra line-up is one of the most diverse in the compact segment. Furthermore, early next year the range will benefit from the introduction of the new SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) ECOTEC gasoline engine generation with a 1.6 liter displacement and turbocharging, providing not just ultra-efficient fuel consumption but also a very comfortable drive in the upper output level of up to 200 hp.

New assistance systems expand broad offer of innovative technologies

Further highlights which help to elevate the technical standards to an even more advanced level are also to be found in the field of driver assistance systems. Many premium technologies that have had their debut in the Insignia and the Zafira Tourer are now also available for the new Astra line-up for even more safety and comfort. These include the second generation Opel Eye front camera with the enhanced Traffic Sign Assistant (TSA II), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Following Distance Indication (FDI) and Forward Collision Alert (FCA). These systems issue warnings to help prevent critical situations for example when the driver is distracted or loses concentration.

Other assistance systems include the Rear View Camera, Advanced Park Assist (APA) that identifies spaces and aids with parking, as well as a Side Blind Spot Alert (SBSA) and a Radar based Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with automatic Collision Imminent Braking (CIB) which works in the range of 50 km/h to 180 km/h. The ACC helps the driver maintain the selected speed by automatically accelerating or decelerating while keeping a pre set safety distance to the vehicle ahead.
The new systems complement the already existing broad Astra offer of innovative technologies, some of which are unique in the compact segment, while others are rarely found among competitors. These include the latest generation of intelligent Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL+) with Bi-Xenon headlamps and a host of sophisticated lighting functions, including High Beam Assist, Dynamic Curve Light, Cornering Light, and variable light distribution that automatically adjusts according to prevailing conditions, including even the weather.

Fresh Astra design with more sporty and upmarket accents

The Astra five door and the Sports Tourer have been given a fresh face that is even more, sporty and upmarket than before. This also applies to the new four-door Astra sedan. The Opel design team concentrated on the front by giving it a more pronounced lower grille inspired by the design of the recently launched Astra GTC, featuring a grille mesh with a more technically precise design. The upper grill of the five door, Sports Tourer and the four door sedan has been given a more prominent wing like chrome bar with three-dimensional visual depth to it. The new chrome bar has turned up tips, is more centered and appears to be floating in the grille. By adding black inserts to the headlamps, the entry level “Essentia” and the “Enjoy” trim levels have been given a more sporty design execution of the lights. LED daytime running lights are now also available with standard halogen headlamps.

At the rear, the license plate pocket of the Astra five door has been sculpted in a new way creating more visual width. In both the five door and the Sports Tourer, there is a new chrome strip in the bumper just below the license plate pocket that also adds to the impression of width.



The new BiTurbo high performance diesel variants of the five door, Sports Tourer and GTC have been given an even sportier and sharper exterior appearance which varies from model to model. The front fascia of the BiTurbo Astra body versions (GTC, Sports Tourer and 5-door) underscore the cars’ high performance and more aggressive nature. The upper grille has a similar shape as the one used on the Astra GTC, however the front bar is always in body color and the five door sedan and Sports Tourer BiTurbo models feature the new wing-shaped bar across the grille. The lower air intake area has also been given a sporty design treatment: the area where the central grille merges into the outer grille has been sculpted in a shark fin like shape, making the car appear more aggressive than a conventional Astra. The side window surround has chrome inserts. At the rear, two exhaust tail pipes and a more prominent rear bumper shape, give the car an added muscular stance.

Inside the cabin, the Astra five door, the Sports Tourer and the four door sedan have been made sportier, more lively and varied by using new fabrics, colors, décor moldings with new glossy paint. In the case of the BiTurbo models, JetBlack colored fabrics or leather are combined with Magic Red in the edge of the seats. Magic Red stitching and seams in the seats, door inserts and the gear shifter boot add to the sporty atmosphere of the interior. A new flat bottom leather steering wheel and special floor mats with red surrounds are other sporty components of the BiTurbo cabin.
Astra customers can now also benefit from new wheel designs. New 17” alloy wheels come as standard in the Sport trim level and there are two new optional 18” and 19” alloy wheels, both with a 5 double spoke stylish design. In addition, a new sporty multi spoke wheel alloy style cover makes its debut in the Astra.



Astra continues Opel’s compact success story
With the greatly enhanced new Astra line up Opel is building on the success of its bestselling compact car that won numerous awards including the prestigious German Golden Steering Wheel (2009) and was recently recognized with the best rating in the 2012 DEKRA used car quality report.

The Astra model family is a key component of the brand. Around a third of all Opel cars sold are Astras. Opel is now into its tenth generation of vehicles in the compact segment and its fourth Astra generation which has gained more than 641,000 customers across Europe. Thanks to its five-door Astra launched in the fall of 2009, followed by the Sports Tourer a year later and the three door GTC Coupé (late 2011). This means that the Astra is the European number three (Germany: number two) in the sales ranking in the largest vehicle segment in Europe which makes up around a quarter of the entire marketplace.

Prices for the new Opel Astra line up start at 16,770 Euro (recommended retail price in Germany including VAT) for the five door, 1.4 liter gasoline 64 kW/87 hp Astra entry level “Essentia” version. The new four door Astra sedan with a 1.4 liter gasoline engine 74 kW/100 hp can be ordered from 18,270 Euro (same conditions as above).

New Generation 1.6 Turbo engines family from Opel

New Generation 1.6 Turbo begins powertrain renewal at Opel

• 1.6 liter Spark Ignition Direct Injection Turbo engine with Start/Stop system
• 13 percent less CO₂ and fuel consumption than predecessor
• High-torque concept maximizes refinement
• Three all new engine families within 12 months

Opel is fundamentally renewing its engine range. Three completely new gasoline and diesel families are replacing the core of the current portfolio. The aim is to take an industry lead, not just with fuel consumption and emissions but with specific torque and noise reduction.

The first new engine to be introduced is a turbocharged 1598 cc, four cylinder gasoline unit with direct injection and Start/Stop. The new SIDI (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) ECOTEC engine will be available in various power outputs and across several car lines. Production at the Szentgotthardt plant in Hungary will begin in late 2012.

Smooth acceleration, strong pulling power, low noise levels and low fuel consumption were the main focus. The emphasis was on torque with the engineers achieving up to 187.5 Nm per liter of displacement – a benchmark for gasoline engines produced in high volume. Maximum torque is up to 300 Nm and is already available at 1,700 rpm. Peak power of up to 200 hp is reached at 4,700 rpm. Compared to the predecessor 1.6 liter turbocharged gasoline engine, fuel consumption and CO₂ have been cut by 13 percent.

The first Opel engine with Spark Ignition Direct Injection technology, the 114kW/155 hp “2.2 ECOTEC Direct” made its debut in Opel’s Signum and Vectra in 2003, succeeded by the Zafira. In 2007, the GT offered the first turbocharged gasoline engine with Direct Injection from Opel, a 2.0 liter unit with 194kW/264 hp. One year later this engine was introduced in the Insignia and was available in the Opel flagship in two variants: 162 kW/220 hp and 184kW/250 hp. The new Astra J OPC will be powered by the latest version of this engine offering an output of 206kW/280 hp.