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.

All-New Opel Astra: Confident, Electrified and Efficient

• All-New Opel Astra electrified for first time as plug-in hybrid in two performance levels
• Bold and pure design with Vizor and optional two-tone paint finish
• Pure Panel fully digital cockpit with widescreens and intuitive controls
• Efficient engines with 6-speed manual and 8-speed automatic transmissions
• Newest Intelli-Lux LED Pixel Light with 168 LED elements
• Numerous automated assistance systems for high safety and comfort
• Ergonomic AGR-certified seats, optionally in leather and Alcantara
• Designed, developed and manufactured at Opel's headquarters in Germany

All-New Opel Astra Hybrid

Opel has today revealed the all-new, sixth generation of the Astra. Success story of Opel's bestseller began 30 years ago with the descendant of the legendary Opel Kadett. With the all-new Opel Astra, the German manufacturer is now opening the next chapter: for the first time, the compact class model is available with electric drive.

All-New Opel Astra: Only 4.0 mm longer than the previous model, despite the considerably increased wheelbase of 2,675 mm (+13 mm)

Opel will offer the new Astra in two performance levels as a plug-in hybrid. In addition, there are versions with highly efficient petrol and diesel engines in combination with friction-optimised six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions.

All-new Opel Astra 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 – Opel Vizor. With the next compact class generation, Opel shows that the Astra is ready to define a new era.

All-new Opel Astra will launch this year as a sporty five-door with a low-slung look and yet more space than its predecessor. With a length of 4,374 millimetres and width of 1,860 mm, it hits the sweet-spot of the compact sector.

All-New Opel Astra: Boot with adjustable floor offers 422 litres of luggage volume  

Thanks to the especially short front overhang, all-new Astra is only 4.0 mm longer than the previous model, despite the considerably increased wheelbase of 2,675 mm (+13 mm). Notwithstanding the muscular, confident stance, all-new Astra’s practical boot with adjustable floor still offers the driver and four passengers 422 litres of luggage volume.

New generation was designed and developed at Opel's headquarters in Rüsselsheim where production will begin this autumn. Like its predecessor launched in 2015, the newcomer brings innovations to the compact class that customers previously only knew from more expensive vehicles. For example, the Astra can turn night into day: the latest evolution of the adaptive IntelliLux LED Pixel light comes straight from Opel's flagship Insignia and, with 168 LED elements, leads the way in the compact and midsize market sectors.

All-New Opel Astra: IntelliLux LED Pixel light

A leap in time has taken place in the interior of the new generation Astra. With the fully digital Pure Panel, analogue instruments are consigned to history. Instead, the new human-machine-interface (HMI) with fresh, modern graphics offers customers a pure, more intuitive experience. Passengers can operate the new Opel Astra intuitively via extra-wide touchscreens, just like a smartphone. Opel designers and engineers have taken great care to ensure that the driver receives all the necessary information and useful operating options, but is not burdened with superfluous data or functions. In addition, key settings such as climate control can still be operated via physical switches and buttons.

Typically Opel is also the outstanding seating comfort of the new compact class model. The front seats, developed in-house, are AGR (“Aktion Gesunder Rücken e.V.”) certified and, with their exemplary ergonomics, are exceedingly comfortable, especially on long journeys. Driver is supported by state-of-the-art assistance systems ranging from the head-up display to the semi-automated Intelli-Drive 2.0 assistance system and the Intelli-Vision 360-degree camera.

“All-new Opel Astra – a new Blitz is born! With sensational design and class-leading technology. Electrified and highly efficient for the lowest possible emissions; heading into a new era. Opel Astra is executed with the utmost precision down to the smallest detail. We are confident that the next generation Astra has all it takes to become another bestseller and attract many new customers to the brand”, said Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller.

New interpretation of bold and pure Opel design philosophy

After the Mokka, Crossland and Grandland SUVs, the new Astra is Opel’s first hatchback to interpret the brand’s bold and pure design philosophy. Opel Vizor (new face of the brand first seen on the Opel Mokka and the central exterior design element) follows the Opel Compass where the vertical and horizontal axes – the sharp crease in the hood and the wing shaped graphic of the daylight running lamps – intersect with the Opel Blitz emblem in the middle. Stretching across the front, making the new Astra look even wider, the Vizor also seamlessly integrates technologies such as the ultra-slim IntelliLux LED headlamps and the front camera of the Intelli-Vision system. Viewed from the side, the next-generation Astra looks especially dynamic thanks to the pronounced forward rake of the C-pillar.

All-New Opel Astra: Opel Vizor and IntelliLux LED Pixel light

At the rear, Opel Compass is repeated by the centrally mounted Blitz, vertically aligned high-mounted brake lamp and tail lamps (energy-saving LED, as is all exterior lighting). Blitz emblem also doubles as the latch for the tailgate, which is made of state-of-the-art composite material. This technology is not only light in weight and rigid, it also allows the precise execution of design details such as the especially slim tail lamps.

All-New Opel Astra: Vertically aligned high-mounted brake lamp and Full LED tail lamps

“All-new Opeel Astra represents the exciting next step of our new design execution”, says Vice President Design, Mark Adams. “With its bold Vizor front face, strong muscular wheel arch blisters and sheer surfacing, all-new Opel Astra has a very sporty and confident personality. Interior also takes a bold step into the future. Strong driver-orientated cockpit with seamless glass look of the new Pure Panel will bring a whole new emotional experience to our customers.”

Next-generation Pure Panel digital cockpit with fully-glazed option

Same German precision applies throughout the interior where the absolute highlight is the next generation of the Pure Panel, first introduced in the Opel Mokka. This expansive, digital cockpit (optionally fully glazed) features two 10-inch displays, seamlessly integrated – together with the driver’s side air vent – in a horizontal format. Thanks to a shutter-like layer that prevents upward reflections in the windscreen, design dispenses with a hood over the displays, which further enhances the high-tech functionality and ambience.

All-New Opel Astra: Next-generation Pure Panel

With the physical controls reduced to the minimum in the form of finely crafted keys, the Pure Panel achieves the optimum balance between digitisation and intuitive operation, detoxed of irritating visual stimuli and without the need for sub-menus. There is no need for cables either, since the new generation of multimedia infotainment systems with connected services – which can be operated by natural language voice control as well as by touch – can be connected as standard on all model variants to wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via compatible smartphones.

Dynamic yet composed handling, “Autobahnproof” braking and stability

All-new Opel Astra is based on the third generation of the highly flexible EMP2 multi-energy architecture, with Opel DNA built in from the start of development. This means that the handling is composed as well as dynamic and that the new model – like every Opel – is “Autobahnproof”. In other words, high-speed capability was a primary development objective.

Steering and lateral stiffness of the chassis – McPherson strut suspension at the front, torsion bar at the rear – are designed for high yaw control (damping of the movement around the horizontal axis). Under braking, the new model delivers strong stopping power and remains highly stable in curves as well as in a straight line. Torsional rigidity of the new Astra is 14 per cent higher than the predecessor’s.

Advanced driver assistance systems including semi-automatic lane change

All-new Astra’s architecture also incorporates the latest automated driver assistance systems. In addition to the multifunction camera in the windscreen, the technology comprises four body cameras (one at the front, one at the rear and one on each side), five radar sensors (one at the front and one at each corner), as well as ultrasonic sensors front and rear.

Cameras and sensors are integrated with e-horizon connectivity in Intelli-Drive 2.0, which extends the range of the cameras and the radar. This enables the system to adapt the speed in curves, make speed recommendations and perform semi-automatic lane changes. Hands-off detection on the steering wheel ensures the driver remains engaged at all times.

Rear cross-traffic alert, long-range blind-spot detection and active lane positioning, which keeps the car in the middle of the driving lane, comprise Intelli-Drive 1.0.

Long list of automated driver assistance systems also includes adaptive cruise control, which increases or decreases speed to follow the vehicle ahead – without exceeding the set speed – and can brake to a standstill if necessary. With the automatic transmission, driving resumes automatically thanks to “Stop & Go”.

Offer of class-leading assistance systems additionally features a large head-up display and Intelli-Vision, a camera and radar-based system for easier parking.

New Opel Astra brings premium Intelli-Lux Pixel Light to compact market sector

Astra’s role as advanced technology carrier continues in lighting and seats, typical areas of expertise for the Opel brand. Previous model played a pioneering role in the introduction of adaptive matrix light in 2015 and the next-generation is now bringing the newest development in lighting to the compact market sector for the first time – IntelliLux LED Pixel Light. This state-of-the-art technology, already available on Opel’s Grandland SUV and Insignia flagships, features a segment-leading total of 168 LED elements – 84 in each ultra-slim headlamp. Main beam adjusts seamlessly in milliseconds, without glare for other road users. Approaching or preceding traffic is “cut out” precisely. Range and direction of the light vary according to the driving situation and surroundings.

Best-in-class AGR ergonomic seats with massage and ventilation

Opel’s ergonomic AGR seats enjoy an award-winning reputation and the all-new OpelAstra continues this long-standing tradition. Certified by “Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V.” (“Campaign for Healthy Backs”) the position of the front seats is 12 mm lower than in the previous model, further enhancing the feeling of a “sporty” drive. Good posture is guaranteed, with the foam density of the seats optimised according to the “Sport” or “Comfort” contours.

All-New Opel Astra: AGR front seats 

All-new Astra’s AGR front seats are the best the compact class has to offer and feature a wide range of optional adjustments, from electric tilt to electro-pneumatic lumbar support. In Nappa leather-trim, they even offer ventilation, massage for the driver and heating at the rear as well as the front. Seats trimmed in stylish Alcantara are also available.

All-New Opel Astra goes electric for first time with powerful plug-in hybrids

All-new Astra will be available from the start of sales with powerful plug-in hybrid electric drive as well as highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, electrifying Opel’s compact class model for the first time in the brand’s history. Power ranges from 81 kW (110 hp) to 96 kW (130 hp) with the petrol and diesel variants and up to 165 kW (225 hp) system output with the plug-in hybrid variants. A six-speed gearbox is standard on the petrol and diesel power units, with an eight-speed automatic transmission (electrified on the plug-in hybrids) optional on the more powerful engines.

Opel will open the order books for the new Astra this autumn. The first customers will take delivery of their cars early next year.

!NEW! Opel Astra Sports Tourer: Successful Station Wagon Rich in Tradition

Tenth generation: Opel Caravan and Sports Tourer characterize the compact class 

New Astra Sports Tourer: Successful tenth generation Opel compact class station wagon.

Over 24 million Opel Kadett and Opel Astra cars sold is an impressive number and a notable achievement. Lined up one behind the other, all Opel compact models built so far would surpass the magical 100,000 kilometer mark and create a column of cars that could circle the equator two and a half times. In short, one could say that Opel compact cars have successively made mobility accessible to new social classes, and not only that. The latest generations have made technologies and innovations from higher segments such as outstanding lighting technologies, AFL+ in the Astra J and IntelliLux LED in the new Astra, accessible. Now Opel is starting a new chapter in the history of its bestseller – continuing the idea of democratizing innovations from upper classes and combining them with an expressive, dynamic design. The Astra Sports Tourer is based on an all-new lightweight vehicle architecture, is powered exclusively by newest generation engines and offers features previously only available in the upper class. Its lean design makes the Astra Sports Tourer look more athletic than ever before. In short, it combines efficiency with elegance and redefines the compact class with its top innovations. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that is was named European “Car of the Year 2016” in March.

Everything started with the Kadett A Caravan in 1963. Opel presented its first compact class station wagon and quickly became the market leader in this segment. From that day on a car with the practicality of a van – i.e. a car a van – has been part of every new Kadett and Astra generation. The Astra H (2004-2010) was the last Opel compact station wagon to carry the name Caravan. In the meantime, station wagons had completed their transformation from workhorses to lifestyle companions.

Carrying the load: New Opel Astra Sports Tourer and its nine compact station wagon predecessors. 

Kadett A to Astra K – A success story spanning ten generations

1963-1965: Opel Kadett A

As spacious as a bus: The first CarAvan

Opel Kadett A Caravan 1963-1965: The first CarAvan – a car with the spaciousness of a van. 

The Opel Kadett A Caravan revolutionized the compact class in 1963. A large trunk 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 businesslike and modern. The 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. The interior space deeply impressed owners of conventional small cars. The trunk 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 trunk,” they said with a wink. With its modern, water-cooled front engine, the Kadett had another major design advantage over the Beetle. The 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

Opel Kadett B Caravan 1965-1973: A big hit – the Kadett becomes an export success. 

B follows A, and already in 1965 a new series replaced the first model. The new version was more than four meters long and thus a good deal bigger than its predecessor. The caravan with its 1.57-meter 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 base 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 percent as customers from 120 countries around the globe snatched up the Kadett.

1973-1979: Opel Kadett C

Solid as a rock: Quality in every shape

Opel Kadett C Caravan 1973-1979: Perfectly suited - chic station wagon and neat family car. 

The Kadett C family had many faces: a smart family car, a chic station wagon with a practical rear tailgate, or a competitive sports coupé (GT/E) in war paint. The 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. The rear-wheel drive Kadett C made its debut in August 1973 with a cleanly designed body and a new double-wishbone front axle. The 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. “The Kadett not only drives exceptionally well, but 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

Opel Kadett D Caravan 1979-1984: The space wonder – completely rethought and reworked. 

The 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. The packaging was truly convincing. The 4.20-meter long newcomer was only slightly longer its predecessor, 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 station wagon with a load volume of up to 1,425 liters, 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

Opel Kadett E Caravan 1984-1991: “Car of the Year“ and a real aerodynamics champion

The 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 station wagon versions had already climbed to the top of the class. In 1987, two 54 hp Caravan diesels set out on a 30,000-kilometer trip from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego – both of them safely reach the final destination. From April 1989 onwards, all gasoline-engined Kadetts were sold with catalytic converter in Germany.

1991-1997: Opel Astra F Caravan

Reborn: Opel Kadett becomes Astra

Opel Astra F Caravan 1991-1997: A new name – Opel Kadett becomes an Astra.

Some 4.13 million Astra F 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.

The 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. Private buyers prefer the highly-equipped Caravan Club with up to 115 hp. Opel also launched a safety offensive with its new star. All Astras offered an active belt system with tensioners on the front seat 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

Opel Astra G Caravan 1998-2004: Fully galvanized – the leap into the new millennium. 

In spring 1998, the Astra was offered from the start as a three and five-door hatchback and as a station wagon. 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. The new model’s fully galvanized body played a key role in its high value retention. Active safety was enhanced with a 30 percent increase in the light output of the H7 halogen headlamps and the completely redesigned Dynamic Safety (DSA) chassis. It combined comfort with agile and safe handling, even under full load. The wheelbase was around eleven centimeters longer, enabling more interior space, in particular more rear knee room in the rear. The fastest compact station wagon ever – the Astra OPC Caravan – hit the road in 2002; the modest family wagon caused many surprises as it hurtled along the Autobahn at 240 km/h.

2004-2010: Opel Astra H Caravan

Adaptive headlights and suspension: A winning concept

With 12 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) Bi-Xenon headlamp system with dynamic curve light.

Opel Astra H also boasted high levels of safety. The consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) awarded the Astra the highest rating of five stars for adult passenger protection. With a 2.70 meter-long wheelbase the Caravan offered passengers plenty of space.

2010 – 2015: Opel Astra J Sports Tourer

Beauties can be useful too: The first Sports Tourer

Sculptural artistry combined with German precision – the dynamic station wagon 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 FlexFold system, up to 1,550 liters 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 Opel 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 approval 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 – the new Opel Astra Sports Tourer is a quantum leap in development and made its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in September 2015. The station wagon has been at Opel dealers across Europe since April 2016. Prices for the new Astra with the 1.4-liter gasoline engine start at just €18,260 (RRP including VAT in Germany; Astra Sports Tourer 1.4 with 74 kW/100 hp, fuel consumption (combined) 5.7-5.5 l/100 km, CO2 emissions (combined): 131-127 g/km). Over half a century after the Kadett A, an engine with 1.0-liter displacement makes its return under the hood of an Opel compact model. Almost twice as powerful with a three-cylinder unit producing77 kW/105 hp thanks to Direct Injection and Turbo technologies. This engine also makes the new Astra one of the cleanest and most economical gasoline-powered model on the market in the compact class (fuel consumption combined 4.5-4.3 l/100 km, CO2 emissions (combined): 103-100 g/km).

The new Sports Tourer also stands out with its award-winning lighting technology. It is 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 include 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 delivers on wellness with newly engineered ergonomic front seats, also certified by the AGR organization, being introduced. These new front seats can even be enhanced with a ventilation and massage function. Convincing arguments that helped the latest Astra generation win the 2016 Car of the Year award in March.

!NEW! All-New Opel Astra K: Innovation Star with Rich Tradition

Eleventh generation: Opel driving from success to success in compact class since 1936 

Eleven friends: All-New Astra leads the way for the eleven successful generations of Opel compact class cars; back row from the left: Kadett 1, Kadett A, Kadett B, Kadett C, Kadett D und Kadett E; front row from left: Astra F, Astra H, New Opel Astra K, Astra J, Astra G.

Over 24 million Opel Kadett and Opel Astra cars sold is an impressive number and a notable achievement. Lined up one behind the other, all Opel compact models built so far would surpass the magical 100,000-kilometer mark and create a column of cars that could circle the equator two and a half times. In short, one could say that Opel compact cars have successively made mobility accessible to new social classes and not only that. The latest generations have made technologies and innovations from higher segments such as outstanding lighting technologies, AFL+ in the Astra J and IntelliLux LED® in the new Astra, accessible.

Now Opel is starting a new chapter in the history of its bestseller – continuing the idea of democratizing innovations from upper classes and combining them with an expressive, dynamic design. The next Astra generation is based on an all-new lightweight vehicle architecture, is powered exclusively by newest generation engines and offers features previously only available in the upper class. Its lean design makes the Astra look more athletic than ever before. In short, the new Astra combines efficiency with elegance and redefines the compact class with its top innovations. The Opel Astra celebrates its world premiere at the International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt this fall (September 17 – 27, 2015).

Speaking of celebrations, a direct ancestor of the new Astra, the Opel Kadett B, turns 50 this year. The Kadett was built more than 2.6 million times and in the 1960s was advertised with the slogan “Das Auto”. It left its competitors behind with its lively spirit, generous space, large luggage compartment and high safety level. In short: “If you know what you want, you drive a Kadett”.

To date the absolute bestseller in the 79 years of the Opel compact class has been the Astra F from 1991 to 1997. For the first time throughout Europe, the new model assumed the name Astra already used in the UK, and sold a total of over 4.1 million units. Within reach of the four-million mark were also the Kadett E (3.8 million) and Astra G (3.95 million). So there are plenty of good reasons to look back at the more than 24 million Opel compact models sold.

Kadett to Astra K – A success story spanning eleven generations

1936 - 1940: Opel Kadett 1 – The people’s car

The beginning: 107,000 Kadett 1 were produced in the Rüsselsheim plant from 1936 to 1940.

The first Opel Kadett was a minor sensation, both technically and in terms of price. More than 100,000 of these four-seat models were built from 1936 to 1940 in Rüsselsheim, which even then was one of the most advanced car-making plants in Europe. The first Kadett with its revolutionary unitary body construction available as a sedan or convertible cost only 2,100 marks. The speedy four-seater could do nearly 100 km/h and it did not take long to find its way into the hearts of the general public. It also found favor with the press: “As the first test drives have confirmed, the Kadett is certainly not an ordinary vehicle in this price range,” wrote a German newspaper, “Braunschweiger Tageszeitung,” on December 5, 1936. The chassis with Dubonnet independent front suspension and leaf-spring rear axle stemmed from the Opel Olympia, and the L-head four-cylinder gray cast-iron engine was taken from the Opel P 4. It generated 23 hp from a displacement of 1,073 cm3. The advantages of taking the engineering from a modular system also played a key part in the low price of the car.

1962 - 1965: Opel Kadett A – For the economic miracle

Opel Kadett A: Opel built nearly 650,000 of them from 1962 to 1965

Double strike: In June of 1962, the first Opel Kadett limousine after the end of the Second World War was produced, quickly followed by the sporty Opel Kadett A Coupé (on photo) in September of the same year. 

A large trunk and plenty of room for four people plus a new, lively engine and low maintenance costs made up the recipe for success for the Opel Kadett A. Opel built nearly 650,000 of them from 1962 to 1965. The contours of the two-door notchback model were businesslike and modern. The 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 and the rear ends were shaped like fins. The interior space deeply impressed owners of conventional small cars. The trunk 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 trunk,” they said with a wink. With its modern, water-cooled front engine, the Kadett had another major design advantage over the Beetle. The 993 cm3 four-cylinder unit developed 40 hp and, from March 1963, also powered the new Opel Kadett Caravan.

Opel Kadett Caravan

1965 - 1973: Opel Kadett B – “Das Auto”

Clear thing: In 1969, Opel advertises the Kadett B with a short and sharp slogan „Das Auto“.

B follows A, and in 1965 a new series replaced the first model. The new version was more than four meters long and thus a good deal bigger than its predecessor. As for its fashionable figure – the designers were inspired by their colleagues overseas. The flat sloping rear was reminiscent of the fastback models popular in the USA. In 1966, “Automobil Illustrierte” noted: “You can almost see the power and speed before you hear the engine.” Not only was the length stepped up – so, too, was the horsepower. Opel engineers enlarged the bore of the four-cylinder unit by 3 mm. The basic 1,078 cm3 unit developed 45 hp. Also available was a higher-compression 1.1 S engine with 55 hp.

Classic car: Opel Kadett B and its luxurious offspring the Olympia A were sold over 2.7 million times from September 1965 to July 1973.

The Kadett was a fast 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 percent as customers from 120 countries around the globe snatched up the Kadett.

Eye-catcher: From 1965 to 1970 Opel Kadett B was available as the so-called ‘Gills- Coupé’ with prominent ventilation slots on the C-pillar. 

1973 - 1979: Opel Kadett C – The athlete

Millionaire: Kadett C, the last Opel in the compact class with rear-wheel drive, was produced 1.6 million time from August 1973 until July 1979.

The three body variants of the Opel Kadett C, Sedan, Caravan and Coupe, 1973-1979

Opel Kadett C family had many faces: a smart family car, a chic second car with a practical rear tailgate, or a competitive sports coupé in war paint. A total of 1.7 million of them were built between 1973 and 1979. The rear-wheel drive Opel Kadett C made its debut in August 1973 with a cleanly designed body and a new double-wishbone front axle. Characteristic design features included a flat radiator grille, an engine hood with the brand’s signature crease, and a front apron in spoiler form. “The Kadett not only drives exceptionally well, but 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. The powerful GT/E debuted at the 1975 IAA. Its 1.9 liter engine with Bosch L-Jetronic injection produced 105 hp and propelled the mere 900 kilograms of Kadett to a top speed of 184 km/h.

Collector’s item: Today, well-preserved Kadett C Coupé GT/E are sought after and expensive. The powerful rallye version 2000 E is an eye-catcher at every classic car event.

1979 - 1984: Opel Kadett D – The front-wheel drive car

New epoch: Front-wheel drive and transverse-mounted engine celebrated their debuts in Opel compact class cars in the 1979 Kadett D.

The 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 debuted as the modern-looking Kadett D. The packaging was truly convincing. Although the newcomer was 126 mm shorter than its predecessor at 3,998 mm, it sported a longer interior and 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. The revolution continued with the body variants. In addition to the spacious station wagon with a load volume of up to 1,425 liters, Opel offered only fastback versions. In January 1983 the sporty Opel Kadett GTE followed, with a top speed of 187 km/h and equipped with a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine that developed 115 hp. 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.

Great white: Opel Kadett D GTE with its sports chassis, Recaro seats and feisty 115 hp began hunting down GTIs in 1983. 

1984 - 1991: Opel Kadett E – The aerodynamics world champion

Opel Kadett E: “Car of the Year 1985”

The second front-wheel drive Kadett, built from 1984 to 1991, was named “Car of the Year 1985” 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. Opel engineers certainly hit the jackpot in 1984. Based on the engineering of its predecessor but with a completely new hatchback design, 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 E model achieved a sensational 0.32.

Sporty: GTE was replaced by GSi in the Kadett E which, starting in 1986, initially had a two-liter engine with a regulated catalytic converter and 85 kW / 116 hp and later possessed four-valve technology and 110 kW / 150 hp.

The sporty GSi, with a Cd of 0.30 and aerodynamic drag of 0.57 m2, was the most aerodynamic hatchback in the world. 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 station wagon version had already climbed to the top of its class. From the fall of 1985, a notchback variant was again in the line-up, the first since the Kadett C. Moreover, the sporty GSi variant was an icon in the making. When the legendary 16-valve engine arrived on the scene in 1987, it left its competitors eating dust.

Top of the range: Opel Kadett E GSi 16V with 110 kW/150 hp

1991 - 1997: Opel Astra F – The bestseller

Body variants of the ’91 Opel Astra F, 1991–-1998.

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.

The 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). Opel also launched a safety offensive with its new star.

Opel Astra F with active belt system with pre-tensioners

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.

High safety as standard: Side protection with double steel tube reinforcements in all the doors.

1998 - 2004: Opel Astra G – The versatile car

In spring 1998, the Astra with coupé-like design was offered from the start as a three- and five-door hatchback and as a station wagon. A notchback sedan, coupé and convertible were added later. 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. The new model’s fully galvanized body played a key role in its high value retention. Active safety was enhanced with a 30 percent 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. The wheelbase was around ten centimeters longer, enabling more interior space, in particular more rear knee room in the rear and a larger trunk volume of 370 liters.

2004 - 2009: Opel Astra H – The mighty car

Esthete: The Opel Astra H shaped the compact class in Europe from March 2004 to September 2010.

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. Opel 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 Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL) Bi-Xenon headlamps system with dynamic curve light.

Opel Astra also boasted high levels of safety. The consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Programme) awarded the Astra the highest rating of five stars for adult passenger protection. With a total of 34 points, the bestseller was considered one of the safest sedans in the compact class.

SAFETEC: Safety system in the Opel Astra H

2009 - 2015: Opel Astra J – The designer piece

Design philosophy: ‚Sculptural Artistry Meets German Precision’ in the Opel Astra J.

Sculptural artistry combined with German precision – the Opel Astra J not only embodies the brand’s new design philosophy, it also assists drivers with a range of technologies that already made an important contribution to the success of the best-selling mid-class Insignia. The Opel Eye 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 current Astra can play out its dynamic talents to the full. A new rear axle construction guarantees driving fun, improved handling and maximum comfort, with a Watt’s link incorporated to improve wheel control.

Astra drivers also benefit from a new generation of front seats developed according to the latest findings in safety ergonomics and are awarded with the seal of quality from the independent medical and back experts of the AGR (action for healthy backs) organization.

From 2015: Opel Astra K – The quantum leap

Up to 200 kg lighter, roomier inside despite a reduced overall length, and more efficient thanks to exclusive use of new-generation engines – the new Opel Astra is a quantum leap in development and makes its world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) in September 2015. Order books for the five-door variant of the next generation of the successful compact class model just opened in mid-June. Prices for the new Astra with the 1.4-liter gasoline engine start at just 17,260 euros. Therefore, it does not cost a cent more than its predecessor does. 53 years after it was introduced in a Kadett, an engine with 1.0-liter displacement makes its return under the hood of an Opel compact model. However, now it is an almost twice as powerful, three-cylinder unit with an output of 77 kW/105 hp reached thanks to Direct Injection and Turbo technologies. This engine also makes the new Astra the cleanest and most economical gasoline-powered model on the market in the compact class. Continuing a tradition that started with the Astra G, the new Astra K also stands out with its lighting technology. It is 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 assistant systems also comprise Traffic Sign Assistant, 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 delivers on wellness with newly engineered ergonomic front seats, certified by the AGR organization once more, being introduced. These new front seats can even be enhanced with a ventilation and massage function.