Opel has launched its new Astra saloon, which is due to arrive in Ireland this September. This four-door saloon will join the five-door hatchback, the Sports Tourer and the GTC Coupe to complete the Astra model line-up. Initially there will be a choice of six engines available to power the Astra saloon, three petrol and three diesel engines. The petrol engines consist of a 1.4-litre with 100hp, a 1.6-litre with 115hp and a 1.4-litre turbo that produces 140hp. There’s a 1.7-litre CDTI ecoFLEX diesel complete with Start/Stop available with two power outputs, 110hp and 130hp, they offer up to 3.7l/100km combined fuel consumption. Also available from early 2013 will be Opel’s new SIDI ECOTEC four-cylinder 1.6-litre turbo-charged petrol engine.
The new Astra saloon offers improved space over its hatch sibling, with an additional 90 litres of luggage space. With the rear seats folded the luggage volume can be increased to 1,010 litres. Commenting on the announcement of the new Astra saloon Dave Sheeran, Managing Director Opel Ireland said, “This new Astra represents a massive opportunity for Opel in Ireland, where there is considerable demand for compact saloons. Its a stylish more affordable solution to many four-door saloons in the mid-size segment”. There will be a host of technology available with this new Astra saloon including Advanced Forward Lighting with bi-xenon headlights and adaptive FlexRide suspension. Further specification and pricing will be announced closer to the car’s arrival.
