LIGHTWEIGHT CONSTRUCTION & DRIVE SYSTEMS
Depending on the model and features, the new Astra is up to 200 kilograms lighter than its predecessor. The weight of the body shell alone has been reduced by more than 20 percent from 357 kilograms to 280 kilograms. High- and super-strength lightweight steels, compactly designed auxiliary frames, and weight reductions on the front and the rear axle save an additional 50 kilograms.
Units from the new engine portfolio supply the dynamics. The performance range stretches from 70 kW/95 HP to 147 kW/200 HP. The gasoline and diesel engines with up to 1.6 liter displacement have three things in common: They combine maximum efficiency with a better response, smooth operation, and noise development.
↑ Slim and dynamic, the new Astra has slimmed down considerably in comparison with its predecessor.
120 to 200 kilograms
lighter than the previous model: The new Astra delivers increased agility and maximum comfort.
DESIGN
← The lightning bolt in the center of the chrome logo bar and the sickle on the sides elevated towards the rear mark the new Astra as a member of the Opel family. At the front, the newly designed double logo bar and the grill appear to flow into the sharply outlined matrix headlights.
↑ The new Astra doesn’t just seem more intricate, it is more intricate. Measuring in at 4.37 meters in length, it’s just under five centimeters shorter than its predecessor. The height was decreased by 2.6 centimeters to almost 1.46 meters. These dimensions affect the vehicle’s aerodynamics and as a result, its efficiency. The Astra’s drag coefficient is under 0.30.
↑ The most eye-catching feature of the design is the divided C-pillar moving towards the rear, which makes the roof appear to float above the chassis. The rear uses a ridge to connect the rear lights.
Enlightenment
Safety highlight is a first for Opel: the intelligent IntelliLux LED® lighting system. Opel’s patented full LED matrix light makes driving with glare-free high beams a reality. It is available in the compact class for the first time in the new Astra.
INTERIOR & INFOTAINMENT
↑ Functional clarity: The number of switches and buttons has been reduced to a minimum to allow the driver to use all of the instruments simply and efficiently. The IntelliLink infotainment system is located in the center console.
Connected
The next generation of the Astra will be Opel’s first new model to feature Opel OnStar, the new personal online and service assistant. It will be available right from market launch. Opel OnStar offers the customer a broad range of safety and convenience services.
In addition, the next generation of the IntelliLink infotainment system celebrates its premiere in the new Astra. It brings the world of the smartphone into the vehicle quickly and more comprehensively with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. It’s a premiere in the compact segment.
HISTORY
↑ The ten generations of Opel’s compact class at a glance, from the Kadett 1 to the Astra J (from left). Opel and the compact class: It’s a success story that began with the Kadett in 1936 and continues with the 11th generation and the new Astra. Opel has built more than 24 million Kadett and Astra models to date.
Published in June 2015