!NEW! Buick Introduces All-New LaCrosse in China

Adds new styling, comfort, safety and connectivity

All-New Buick LaCrosse was launched in Guangzhou.

SAIC-GM introduced all-new Buick LaCrosse in China. The LaCrosse is available in six trims, with an option of a 1.5T or a 2.0T engine – and is priced between RMB 225,800 and RMB 339,800.

The Buick sedan has built an image based on comfort, quietness and quality, as well as attention to safety. The all-new LaCrosse builds on a strong global heritage, with more than 950,000 worldwide sales since 2009.

“The all-new LaCrosse incorporates innovations in design and technology, signaling Buick’s future vision in these important areas. It ushers in an exciting new era for the brand in China – its largest market,” said SAIC-GM President Wang Yongqing.

Trend-setting exterior

All-New Buick LaCrosse

The all-new LaCrosse is the first production vehicle to adopt the next evolution of Buick design. Inspired by the award-winning Avenir concept, it maintains the distinguishable features associated with the LaCrosse nameplate.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Tri-shield insignia, waterfall grille 

Its new wing-shaped chrome front grille with a large opening distinguished by the return of a three-color – red, silver and blue – Buick tri-shield insignia, is accented by wing-shaped elements set against darkened waterfall grille bars inspired by the 1954 Wildcat II concept. It is complemented by LED headlamps and taillamps.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - LED headlamps

All-New Buick LaCrosse - LED taillamps and ducktail spoiler

The traditional Buick sweep-spear bodyside seamlessly connects with the ducktail spoiler, enhancing the profile and contributing to the sedan’s dynamic stance.

Spacious and stylish interior

All-New Buick LaCrosse -  Stylish interior

The cockpit has a horizontal form that sweeps across the instrument panel and into the doors. Together with its 2,905 mm wheelbase, this creates more space for the driver and passengers. It also supports 29 flexible storage spaces and a large trunk with room for four suitcases.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Flexible storage spaces

In addition, it incorporates a “floating” center console that positions the controller for the new Electronic Precision Shift high and close to the driver, while creating storage space below the console for items such as a handbag or tablet.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Electronic Precision Shift

It features the brand’s Contemporary Moon White ambient lighting system for a quiet and relaxing environment. Attention to detail includes soft materials for practically every touchpoint; French stitching on the seats, instrument panel and more; and aluminum sill plates and wood decorative trim – depending on the model.

Engineers leveraged local consumer data insights to finesse seating development to meet the needs of Chinese customers. For the first time, Buick LaCrosse comes with heated/cooling rear seats that include the massage feature. The seats adjust automatically.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Heated / Cooled rear seats with the massage feature

The all-new Buick LaCrosse has a quiet and refined interior. Thanks to its flowing bodyline and active grille shutters, which open and close automatically to control airflow, the car has a drag coefficient of 0.29 that minimizes wind noise and helps improve fuel efficiency. In addition, it incorporates noise-damping features such as upgraded QuietTuning, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Liquid Applied Sound Deadening (LASD) materials.

Latest-generation powertrains

Customers have a choice of two of GM’s latest-generation powertrain combinations. They incorporate stop/start technology and the brake energy recovery system for even better fuel efficiency. In addition, the all-new LaCrosse is the first model to adopt Electronic Transmission Range Selection (ETRS) with paddle shifters, which assist with responsiveness and durability, while also saving space and improving drivability.

Buick 2.0T SIDI engine

The all-new Buick LaCrosse 28T has a high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine, a Ward's 10 Best Engine. Combined with an all-new six-speed DSS intelligent transmission, the engine produces maximum output of 192 kW at 5,400 rpm and peak torque of 350 Nm at 2,000-5,000 rpm. It accelerates from 0-100 km/h in only 7.4 seconds.

Buick 1.5T SIDI engine 

The all-new Buick LaCrosse 20T comes with an efficient 1.5T SIDI engine that produces maximum output of 125 kW at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 252 Nm at 2,000-4,000 rpm. Mated to a seven-speed DCG intelligent dual-clutch transmission, the engine consumes only 6.2 liters of fuel per 100 km, making the sedan eligible for the Chinese government’s 50 percent purchase tax cut for vehicles with small-displacement engines. 

Comprehensively upgraded chassis

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Upgraded chassis

Another highlight of the all-new Buick LaCrosse is its comprehensively upgraded chassis. Its optimized MacPherson front suspension has a class-leading decoupled three-link upper suspension structure and a redesigned eight-point full-length sub-frame. The multi-link independent rear suspension has seven sets of bushes and rear suspension stabilizer bars to support a smooth ride.

Its second-generation CDC active suspension comes with hardware and software updates as well. This allows for improved maneuverability and comfort with the help of the specially tuned sport mode, high-performance anti-noise tires, redesigned Electric Power Steering (EPS) and GM-Exclusive Ferritic Nitro-Carburizing (FNC) technology that also expands the life of brake rotors.  

With 41 percent of its body made from ultra-high-strength steel, the all-new Buick LaCrosse is 200 kg lighter than its predecessor. However, it maintains the previous generation’s optimized safety and stability to exceed the highest five-star safety rating standards.

Adding to the safety are the Bosch ESP 9.1 electronic stability system with 21 expandable functions, the Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), an Electric Parking Brake (EPB) and dual-stage pre-crash seatbelts with dynamic spring bolts. The top-of-the-line trim level adds 10 airbags.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Pedestrian Detection

Five new functions – Pedestrian Detection, Lane Keep Assist, Following Distance Indicator, High Beam Alert and Advance Park Assist – have been added to the previous-generation LaCrosse’s seven intelligent safety functions to further enhance protection.

Trend-setting intelligent technology

All-New Buick LaCrosse - User friendly HMI

The all-new Buick LaCrosse employs a range of user-friendly human-machine interactive technologies along with eight in-car data lines. Buick’s upgraded IntelliLink infotainment system is complemented by the new-generation OnStar full-time online assistant, which can now be connected with 4G LTE through an original built-in integrated system.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - IntelliLink infotainment system

The user-friendly operating system provides a stable Wi-Fi hotspot with a stronger signal than ordinary smartphones. Up to seven mobile devices can be connected simultaneously. The system is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Baidu CarLife.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Full-color Head-Up Display (HUD)

Adding to the comfort and convenience for the driver and passengers are a full-color head-up display (HUD) and Bose Centerpoint surround sound system that has been adapted for the all-new Buick LaCrosse.

All-New Buick LaCrosse - Bose Centerpoint surround sound system

It also comes with remote engine start, keyless entry and keyless start, a high-resolution 8-inch frameless flat touch screen, four USB ports, Bluetooth hands-free calling and the Air Quality System (AQS) with a highly efficient PM2.5 filter.

!NEW! All-New Buick LaCrosse goes on sale in China next month

New sedan will take performance, fuel efficiency and comfort to new level

All-New Buick LaCrosse

SAIC-GM’s new-generation Buick LaCrosse sedan, which goes on sale in China next month, will come with new high-efficiency powertrains and an upgraded chassis. It will take performance, fuel efficiency and comfort to a new level in the premium passenger car segment.

Highly Efficient Powertrains

The new Buick LaCrosse is being offered in China with a choice of powertrains. The top-of-the-line LaCrosse 28T is powered by GM’s high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine, which was named a Ward's 10 Best Engine. The engine incorporates advanced technology such as a twin-scroll turbocharger, intelligent inline direct injection, a tooth camshaft drive chain, a variable displacement oil pump and an integral balance shaft mounted low in the oil sump to maximize efficiency.

New Buick LaCrosse 28T is powered by GM’s high-performance 2.0T SIDI engine.

Paired with an upgraded intelligent six-speed DSS transmission and incorporating start/stop technology, it generates a maximum output of 192 kW and peak torque of 350 Nm. The powertrain combination enables the new Buick LaCrosse to sprint from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.4 seconds while achieving combined fuel consumption of 7.6 liters/100 km.

The new Buick LaCrosse 20T is equipped with GM's new-generation and efficient 1.5T SIDI engine, which features an advanced structural design and cutting-edge technologies. They include mid-mounted direct injection, a variable displacement oil pump, an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold, a patented ultra-quiet inverted-tooth camshaft drive chain and an all-aluminum split cylinder block.

New Buick LaCrosse 20T is equipped with GM's new-generation 1.5T SIDI engine.

The engine is matched with a seven-speed intelligent dual-clutch gear transmission and includes fuel-saving start/stop technology. The powertrain combination produces a maximum output of 125 kW, peak torque of 252 Nm and combined fuel economy of 6.2 liters/100 km. The new Buick LaCrosse 20T is eligible for the Chinese government’s 50 percent purchase tax cut for vehicles with small-displacement engines.

Enhanced Chassis System

The new Buick LaCrosse has an upgraded chassis system. It comes with GM’s second-generation Continuous Damping Control (CDC). A sensor monitors road conditions 100 times per second to maximize comfort and handling. Younger drivers will appreciate the specially tuned Sport mode, which ensures better handling – especially in cornering.

New Buick LaCrosse’s upgraded chassis.

The optimized MacPherson front suspension in the new Buick LaCrosse has a class-leading decoupled three-link upper suspension structure that independently passes on the load of the springs, bumper blocks and dampers to the body for faster response. A redesigned eight-point full-length sub-frame connects the body using four vibration isolation joints and four enhanced connecting points. 

A multi-link independent rear suspension isolates vibrations while offering sufficient lateral rigidity and stability. An upgraded Electric Power Steering (EPS) system provides precise and highly efficient steering control by boosting the motor power by 39 percent and enhancing transmission efficiency to over 85 percent.  

New Buick LaCrosse’s upgraded chassis.

The LaCrosse has been a key member of Buick’s lineup in China since the nameplate’s local introduction in 2006. Last year, more than 83,000 LaCrosse sedans were sold nationwide.

!NEW! Buick Launches Verano Hatchback and Verano GS in China

Priced from RMB 145,900 to RMB 205,900

Buick launched the new Verano Hatchback and Verano GS this evening in Guangzhou, China. The five variants of the two newest members of the Verano family are priced from RMB 145,900 to RMB 205,900. Buick’s 740 dealerships across China have begun accepting pre-orders.

Buick launched the new Verano Hatchback and Verano GS in Guangzhou, China

The new Verano models have trendy, sporty styling along with European car-like handling, premium interiors and advanced technology. They are targeted at younger trend-setting consumers who are looking for a driving experience that is “born with sportiness.”

The five variants of the two newest members of the Verano family are priced from RMB 145,900 to RMB 205,900.

Stylish and sporty exterior

The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS have adopted Buick's latest design language for sport sedans. The brand’s signature waterfall grille has taken on a creative frameless design, with a newly added piano black finish. The bold, concise and contoured hood lowers the car's stance.

The two models’ wedge-shaped silhouette and double-sweep beltline form a dashing profile, with B- and C-pillars in German-crafted gloss black creating a floating roofline.

The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS have adopted Buick's latest design language for sport sedans.

The models also feature Buick's wing-shaped LED daytime running lamps, which echo their wing-shaped tinted tail lamps. Together with an integrated rear wing that accentuates the sculptured rear end, they provide a stylish, vibrant and captivating feel.

Contemporary and exquisite interior

The cabins of the two new Veranos combine sportiness, premium materials and exquisite craftsmanship. They utilize Buick's iconic 360 degree wraparound layout that exemplifies its driver-oriented design philosophy.

 Buick Verano GS has a stylish basic black interior that accentuates its dynamism. It is complemented by red accents.

The brand's focus on a high-quality driving and riding experience is also demonstrated by a segment-leading 2,662 mm wheelbase, the generous use of eco-friendly supple materials throughout the interior, a standard three-spoke sporty multi-function steering wheel, considerately designed ambient lighting, rear-row USB charging ports and patented Quiet-Tuning® noise control technology.

The Verano GS is fitted with an exclusive sporty black and red kit inside and out. Aerodynamic exterior accessories, bright red strips on the front and rear bumpers, bright red brake calipers and 17-inch dark-painted five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels look bold and impressive.

Inside, a bright red carbon fiber-pattern strip across the center console and red stitching make a strong impression. Adding to the sportiness are a carbon fiber-pattern finish on the center console, a three-spoke sporty multi-function steering wheel with a paddle shifter, Alcantara® racing car-like seats and Flame Red ambient lighting.

Trend-setting intelligent and safety technologies

The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS come with a wide variety of trend-setting intelligent technologies. They are the first Buick models in China available with the Apple CarPlay system. Users can seamlessly connect their iPhones with iOS 7.1 and above through the new-generation Buick IntelliLink infotainment system. All iPhone features and built-in apps – including phone, messages, maps, music, podcasts and Siri – are easily accessible via the high-resolution 8-inch diagonal display in the center console.

Buick Verano Hatchback and Verano GS are equipped with the Apple CarPlay system.

The Verano GS is offered with segment-exclusive and Buick-first Matrix full-LED headlamps. Behind the headlamps' Big Dipper-like panels are 29 Matrix LED clusters connected to front cameras to intelligently perform a range of functions, including automatically turning on the high-beam headlights, activating the anti-glare high-beam headlights and automatically adjusting the height of the headlamps. They automatically switch between six lighting modes – City, Urban, Expressway, Curve, Parking and Fuel Economy – based on driving conditions.

In addition, the Verano GS comes with Buick's new intelligent safety system, which incorporates features that include Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keep Assist, Collision Mitigation Braking and Automatic Parking Assist.

While 75 percent of the two Veranos’ body structure is composed of high-strength steel, the models incorporate extensive lightweight design features, such as lighter and more rigid structures, all-aluminum engines, all-aluminum sub-frames, all-aluminum front and rear bumpers, and aluminum steering knuckles, as well as imported lightweight damping mats. The result is a 100 kilogram reduction in curb weight.

The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS are built on the same architecture as the new Opel Astra K. Their firm chassis has an optimized MacPherson front suspension and enhanced composite torsion bar, along with a new-generation Opel-patented Watt's link rear suspension and all-aluminum six-point full-length sub-frame. The result is a perfect balance between body dimensions, weight and overall efficiency.

Handling and driving pleasure were assured through the adoption of the all-new belt-drive electric power-assisted steering system as well as more than a year's worth of testing and tuning at Germany's famed Nürburgring circuit.

Exciting and fuel-efficient powertrains

Both models incorporate GM's new Ecotec small gasoline engines, which combine powerful performance with exceptional fuel economy. The Verano Hatchback pairs a 1.5L SIDI engine with a six-speed DCG transmission. It delivers maximum output of 87 kW/6,600 rpm and peak torque of 146 Nm/4,000 rpm.

New Buick Verano GS is powered by a 1.5T SIDI engine that was named one of the “China Heart” 2015 Ten Best Engines. It is paired with a new-generation seven-speed DCG transmission. The powertrain combination produces maximum output of 124 kW/5,600 rpm and peak torque of 250 Nm/1,700-4,400 rpm. This gives the model the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds while enabling combined fuel consumption of 5.9 L/100 km – which sets a new benchmark for its class.

1.5T SIDI engine with  maximum output of 124 kW/5,600 rpm and peak torque of 250 Nm/1,700-4,400

The engine start/stop feature, which further helps improve fuel efficiency, comes standard across the full Verano lineup. All variants are eligible for China's new incentive plan that cuts the purchase tax in half for cars with engines smaller than 1.6 liters.

The Buick Verano Hatchback and Verano GS, together with the new-generation Buick Verano sport sedan launched earlier this year and the all-new Buick Excelle GT, will strengthen Buick’s presence in China’s premium mid-range passenger car segment.

!NEW! Buick Verano’s Ecotec 1.5T Engine Named “China Heart” 2015 Ten Best Engine

The 1.5T SIDI engine in the new Buick Verano from SAIC-GM has been named one of the “China Heart” 2015 Ten Best Engines.

Buick Verano’s 1.5T Engine Named “China Heart” 2015 Ten Best Engine.

The recently introduced Ecotec 1.5T SIDI engine was chosen by an expert judging panel following several rounds of reviews and road tests. It was selected for its durability, advanced technology, power, fuel efficiency, low maintenance cost, and low level of noise and vibration.

In addition, the Buick Verano new-generation sports sedan was honored as a “China Heart” recommended model due to its award-winning powertrain, as well as its stylish and dynamic exterior, exquisite and comfortable interior, and precise and agile handling.

Buick Verano’s 1.5T Engine Named “China Heart” 2015 Ten Best Engine.

The all-aluminum engine in the Verano is loaded with cutting-edge technologies such as a variable displacement oil pump, an integrated cylinder head/exhaust manifold, a patented quiet inverted-tooth camshaft drive chain. It also incorporates industry-leading central direct injection technology, which delivers improved fuel atomization and enables the injection of a precise amount of fuel into each cylinder.

In the Buick Verano 20T, the engine is paired with a seven-speed DCG transmission with stop-start technology. It delivers maximum output of 124 kW at 5,600 rpm and peak torque of 250 Nm at 1,700-4,400 rpm. This gives the vehicle the ability to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 8.8 seconds and segment-leading combined fuel consumption of 6.1 L/100 km. The engine complies with China’s advanced National V emissions standard.

More than 1,600 prototypes of the engine were put through more than 3.2 million kilometers of road testing worldwide.

This is the ninth year that one of GM’s Ecotec engines has been named one of the Ten Best Engines since the honor was created in 2006. The engine is also featured in the popular Buick Envision SUV. As a component of SAIC-GM's Drive to Green strategy, the engine will be deployed in more of the automaker's models.

!NEW! Buick Verano Hatchback and Verano GS Coming This Year

Born with sportiness and European car-like handling

New Buick Verano GS

Two new Buick hatchbacks, the Verano Hatchback and Verano GS, are coming this year. The additions to the Verano family are built on the same mid-range global passenger car platform as the new Opel Astra.

The new Buick Verano models have trendy, sporty styling along with European car-like handling, premium interiors and advanced technology. They are targeted at trend-setting consumers who are looking for a driving experience that is “born with sportiness.”

The hatchbacks feature Buick's innovative low-slung, wide stance along with a double-sweep beltline, flowing bodylines, a floating roofline and a front grille that is seamlessly connected to wing-shaped headlights.

Buick Verano GS has additional stylish yet sporty elements and a wide range of colors. Its optional interior and exterior packages include a black waterfall grille, aerodynamic spoilers, bright red strips for the front and rear bumpers, bright red brake calipers and dark-painted five-spoke aluminum alloy wheels – all of which ignite a passion for driving.

Both models incorporate GM's new Ecotec small engines, which combine powerful performance with exceptional fuel economy. The Verano Hatchback pairs a 1.5L SIDI naturally aspirated engine with a six-speed intelligent manual transmission or six-speed DSS intelligent automatic transmission. The Verano GS has a 1.5T SIDI turbocharged engine, which is accompanied by a seven-speed DCG intelligent transmission. The powertrain combination produces maximum output of 124 kW/5,600 rpm, with fuel consumption of only 5.9 L/100 km.

The new Verano family members are built on a firm chassis. They offer European car-like handling thanks to testing and tuning at Germany's famed Nürburgring circuit.

SAIC-GM launched the Buick Verano new-generation sports sedan on June 27. The Verano Hatchback and Verano GS will strengthen Buick’s presence in China’s premium mid-range passenger car segment, offering consumers a greater range of products to choose from to meet their needs.

!NEW! Lean, Stylish, Innovative: All-New Opel Astra – Fit for Fun

• Lean machine: New Opel Astra up to 200 kilograms lighter
• Agile, frugal and quiet: Astra only available with latest-generation engines
• Clever design: Smaller exterior dimensions, more spacious and comfortable inside
• Outstanding connectivity: First completely new model with Opel OnStar
• Infotainment debut: IntelliLink R 4.0 compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• First in class: Intelligent Full-LED Matrix light IntelliLux LED^®
• Clever back-up: Technologies and driver assistance systems from higher segments
• Wellness seats: Massage function, ventilation and seat-width setting

Eye-candy: New Opel Astra catches the eye with a lighter, more athletic appearance.

Opel and compact class cars – this specific success story starts with the Kadett in 1936 and will be continued with the new Astra, the eleventh generation of an Opel compact class car. So far, 24 million Kadett and Astra compact class models have left the plants. And now Opel is ready to add a new chapter to the history of its bestseller. The next generation Astra is based on an all-new lightweight vehicle architecture, will only be driven by latest generation engines and offers features previously only known from higher segments. The lean design makes the new Astra look more athletic than ever before. To put it briefly, the new Astra combines efficiency with elegance and will redefine the compact class segment with its innovations. New Opel Astra will celebrate its world premiere at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt this fall (September 17 to 27).

Compact dimensions: With total length of 4.37 meters is the new Opel Astra almost five centimeters shorter than its predecessor.

Typical features: The divided C-pillar and the characteristic ‘blade’ raising towards the rear characterize the new Opel Astra.

“Three values are decisive for the new Astra – efficiency, innovation and dynamic performance,” said Opel Group CEO Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann. “Our engineers developed it from the proverbial white sheet of paper. The new Astra is up to 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor – and its athletic design makes this outwardly visible. Its dimensions are smaller but both spaciousness and comfort have been increased considerably. Under the hood the Astra will only feature engines of the latest generation. Numerous technologies and assistance systems from higher segments increase the comfort and safety of the Astra passengers, with our personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar, ultra-modern phone integration and the ground-breaking new Adaptive Full-LED Matrix light IntelliLux leading the way.”

Clearly identifiable: Opel flash in the center of the chrome bar on the grill and makes the new Astra immediately recognizable as a member of the Opel family.

Saving where it counts: The new vehicle architecture

Lighter, more frugal and agile and at the same time even more comfortable – the new Opel Astra meets all of these demands thanks to its successful fitness program. The visionary Monza Concept, unveiled at the 2013 Frankfurt Motor Show, was the role model for the eleventh generation Opel compact class car. According to Dr. Karl-Thomas Neumann, every element and every design feature of the Opel Monza Concept reflects efficiency. The new Opel Astra follows this vision rigorously. Depending on the model and trim level it will be up to 200 kilograms – at the very least 120 kilograms – lighter than its predecessor. The completely new vehicle architecture plays a major role in the weight reduction. Every component was checked for compact design and lightweight materials. The bodyshell weight alone was reduced by 20 percent from 357 to 280 kilograms. Additional, chassis-related measures resulted in another 50 kilograms of weight reduction; these include high-strength and ultra-high-strength low-weight steels, compact subframes as well as weight reductions to the front and rear axle.

Bodyshell weight alone was reduced by 20% from 357 to 280 kilograms

The end result of this fitness program: agility and driving comfort are improved in the new Opel Astra. It is more responsive, corners better and gives a much more direct overall driving experience. In a nutshell, the new Opel Astra is more fun to drive than ever before.

Only the best: The latest powertrain portfolio

The engine in the new Opel Astra supports this claim. Under the hood of every new Astra a member of the completely new engine portfolio can be found. Outputs range from 70 kW/95 hp to 147 kW/200 hp. The diesel and gasoline engines with a displacement of up to 1.6 liters all have three things in common: they combine highest efficiency with excellent responsiveness and running smoothness.

The 1.6 CDTI with a wide range of outputs starting at 70 kW/95 hp covers the diesel offer whereas the 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo (77 kW/105 hp) is the base level gasoline engines. The highlight in the new Opel Astra engine portfolio is the all-new 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo, a four-cylinder unit from the same family as the smaller but nonetheless powerful one-liter, three-cylinder engine. The all-aluminum engine will make its debut with 107 kW/145 hp. It impresses with dynamic responsiveness and high performance while curbing fuel consumption. The engine delivers maximum torque of up to 250 Nm very early. Maximum power is available between 1,800 and 4,000 rpm – perfect conditions for driving pleasure in combination with efficiency. Based on its construction, the new 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo also adds less weight to the car. The aluminum engine block alone weighs ten kilograms less than the forged steel block of the current 1.4 liter turbo.

All-New 1.4 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with 107 kW/145 hp and maximum torque up to 250 Nm

Athletic design meets spaciousness: The perfect Astra symbiosis

Agile, frugal and quiet: New Opel Astra will only be available with latest-generation engines

The design of the new Opel Astra also depicts efficiency and once again the Opel Monza Concept was the role model. The evolution of the Opel design philosophy ‘Sculptural Artistry meets German Precision’ ensures that the new Astra catches the eye with a lighter, more athletic appearance instead of a muscular look. The Opel Blitz in the center of the chrome bar on the grill and the characteristic ‘blade’ raising towards the rear make the new Astra immediately recognizable as a member of the Opel Family. The front headlamps melt into the radiator grille to form a graphic unity. The most significant design cue is the divided C-pillar, creating the impression of a floating roof. The interplay of light and shadow is emphasized by the horizontal crossbar above the brand logo linking the rear lights. The new Opel Astra does not just look smaller – it is smaller. With a total length of 4.37 meters it is almost five centimeters shorter than its predecessor. With a height of 1.46 meters it is also 2.6 centimeters smaller. The dimensions obviously have an impact on aerodynamics and efficiency with the new Astra boasting a drag coefficient below 0.30.

Exciting rear-view: Interplay of light and shadow is emphasized by the horizontal crossbar above the brand logo linking the rear lights.

Smaller on the outside but bigger on the inside – Opel engineers are responsible for successfully squaring this circle. The wheelbase may have been reduced by two centimeters but the amount of space inside increased. In combination with newly designed seats, the passengers in the rear can enjoy an additional 35 millimeters legroom. Furthermore, the distance between the front and rear seats was increased – this improves travel comfort and sense of space. The high-quality cockpit and the instrument panel seamlessly transfer the characteristic and aesthetic exterior design to the interior, thus ensuring that a new interior design generation is introduced in the new Opel Astra. It is characterized by an especially clear look, also reflected by the reduced amount of control switches and buttons along with the large color touchscreen in the center stack.

Help and service around the clock: Outstanding connectivity with Opel OnStar

All new models adhere to the principle: Opel democratizes technologies and innovations from higher segments, Opel makes innovations affordable. For example in connectivity. The next generation Astra is the first new Opel model that will be available with the personal connectivity and service assistant Opel OnStar from its launch. Opel OnStar offers customers a broad range of safety and comfort services. If an airbag deploys, Opel OnStar will be alerted automatically. An advisor will then contact the vehicle to determine whether help is required. If there is no response, emergency responders are immediately sent to the exact location of the vehicle. This is only one example of the advantages of the new personal connectivity and service assistant. Drivers and passengers can reach OnStar 24/7 and 365 days a year. No matter whether they need roadside assistance or any other service – an OnStar advisor is always ready to help. Furthermore, OnStar will turn the new Opel Astra into a 4G LTE mobile Wi-Fi hotspot. Up to seven devices, from smartphones to tablets, can be connected simultaneously.

Easy control: The Intellilink functions can be accessed via the up to eight-inch large touchscreen. 

In addition, the new generation of the IntelliLink infotainment system will celebrate its debut in the Astra. As it is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, it will facilitate bringing the world of smartphones into the car – a premiere in the compact class segment. Each system builds off of the features smartphone users rely on most. Android Auto is built around Google Maps, Google Now and the ability to talk to Google, as well as a growing audio and messaging app ecosystem that includes WhatsApp, Skype, Google Play Music, Spotify, and podcast players. A full list of supported apps is available at Android.com/auto. Apple CarPlay takes the iPhone features you’d want to access while driving and puts them on the vehicle’s display in a smart, simple manner. That allows drivers to make calls, send and receive messages and listen to music right from the touchscreen or by voice via Siri. Apple CarPlay supported apps include Phone, Messages, Maps, Music and compatible third party apps. A full list of those apps can be found at Apple.com/ios/carplay. The functions can be controlled via the large, up to eight-inch touchscreen located high on the center stack, via remote control on the steering wheel (volume) or via voice control.

Fully connected: The new generation of the IntelliLink infotainment system, compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, will celebrate its debut in the new Opel Astra. 

Premium technologies for the compact class: IntelliLux LED® and Co.

The is an absolute novelty and safety highlight in the new Astra. The ground-breaking, Opel patented full-LED matrix light of the next generation enables driving with glare-free high beams and will be available in the compact class for the first time in the Astra.

IntelliLux LED®: Opel patented Full-LED Matrix light enables driving with glare-free high beams with “cutting out” area around oncoming or preceding vehicles and will be available in the compact class for the first time in the new Astra.

Consisting of 16 LED segments – eight on each side of the vehicle – the new LED Matrix system automatically and constantly adapts the length and distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation. In the process, it works with the Opel Eye front camera. As soon as the vehicle exits urban areas, the high-beam lighting is automatically switched on – and it always remains on. At driving speeds of 80 km/h, drivers detect objects at the side of the road around 30 to 40 meters sooner than with conventional halogen or xenon low beam lighting. This gives them around 1.5 seconds more time to react. Dazzling other road users is also not a problem. When the camera detects light sources from oncoming or preceding traffic, individual LEDs in the relevant zone are deactivated, simply “cutting out” the area around the vehicles. The rest of the road and its surroundings remain brightly illuminated. With this degree of precision and adaptation, LED Matrix light elevates lighting technology to the next level.

Opel IntelliLux LED on: Consisting of 16 LED segments – eight on each side of the vehicle – the new LED matrix system automatically and constantly adapts the length and distribution of the light beam to every traffic situation.

Not only does the system illuminate the surroundings brighter than conventional lighting systems, it also has a considerably longer running life than headlamps with Halogen or Xenon lamps. Another advantage is that mechanical movements are no longer necessary in the headlamp – the individual LED segments turn on or off according to the situation, which also contributes to durability.

Apart from Opel OnStar and IntelliLux LED®, future Astra owners can look forward to a string of further safety, driver assistance and comfort systems – many of which are unrivalled in this segment. The Traffic Sign Assistant and the Lane Keep Assist with Lane Departure Warning along with Following Distance Indication and the Forward Collision Alert with Collision Imminent Braking not only make driving the new Astra more comfortable but also safer. Cruise control with speed limiter ensures that the speed is always within the legal boundaries. Advanced Park Assist increases comfort and can park the car automatically at the push of a button. The rear view camera is activated once reverse gear is selected. And Side Blind Spot Alert recognizes obstacles within a 3-meter radius on either side and behind the car that are hidden from the driver’s vision.

High-quality cockpit: Interior of the new Opel Astra is characterized by an especially clear look, also reflected by the reduced amount of control switches and buttons along with the large color touchscreen in the center stack.

The AGR (Campaign for Healthy Backs) tested and certified ergonomic seats are also outstanding. They continue Opel’s tradition in excellent, ergonomic seats and now come with additional comfort features. The new Opel Astra will offer 18-way adjustable seats for the driver. They have a massage function, ventilation and seat-width setting. And the rear passengers can also look forward to more comfort than before with the two heatable outer back seats available as an option.

Squaring the circle: New Opel Astra is smaller on the outside but bigger on the inside.

The all-new Opel Astra is therefore not only safer, more comfortable, more attractive and more modern than ever before, it is also lighter, more agile, more aerodynamic and more efficient in every sense of the word. It is Opel’s road to the future.

NOTE: New Opel Astra is under consideration for introduction in South Africa in 2016. Model range, specification, and pricing will be announced closer to launch.