The Astra is slated for a public release in September at the Frankfurt Motor Show. But few people suspect how difficult it will be for the favorite of the Germans to break into the TOP. He is constantly "chased by another" active participant in automotive life, a representative of the glorious family of "people's cars", VW Golf. Ear of the C-segment, constantly one step ahead of Opel. However, Opel has never given up in its long and sometimes difficult history, moving forward, developing technologies and expanding production. For example, we chose one of the oldest Opel lines, Kadett, later transferred to Opel Astra.

Before we start our virtual journey around the world, let's ask a question. Did you know that Opel was the first to create an accessible, mass-produced car than Volkswagen? Did not know? Now you are in the know!

Ferdinand produced his first Beetle Type 1 in 1938, two years after the Opel Astra went into mass production. From Opel Kadett 1 to Astra K, 79 years full of glorious moments. Fun fact: Kadett and Astra are German bestseller brands.

According to the German manufacturer, more than 24 million units were built during this period. If you line them up one after the other, a chain of Opel compact cars will exceed 100,000 kilometers in length and will be able to circumnavigate the equator two and a half times! , which acquired the Opel brand in 1929. The heads of GM were extremely impressed with Opel's state-of-the-art production facilities.

From the slogan "Das-auto", up to 240 "horses" and all this is Opel! The first people's car.

Opel Kadett 1 (1936 - 1940)

When it entered production in 1936, the introductory Opel Kadett was not hailed as the headliner of the automotive world at the time. In terms of mechanics, technology, price, Kadett was an ordinary, simple machine. However, for four years it was assembled in Russelsheim. The production volume has exceeded the important threshold, 100,000 units. The four-seater had an ace up its sleeve, the Kadett 1 had a unitary body structure.

This technical solution was a precursor to the creation of a modular vehicle platform. This made it possible to create the Kadett 1 both as a sedan and as a convertible. With a price starting from DM 2,100. The maximum speed was about 100 km/h. In front of the 1936 model there was an independent Dubonnet type suspension and a sprung rear axle from Opel Olympia. 1 liter lower valve cast iron engine with four cylinders and 23 hp was borrowed from the Opel P4.

Opel Kadett A (1962 - 1965)

After a decent break, in the 60s, a new Opel appeared on the scene under the letter "A". Its strengths are good trunk capacity and the ability to comfortably accommodate four adults. The Vector has been taken for maximum reliability and low maintenance. 1 liter 40 horsepower engine gave such an opportunity. From 62 to 65, about 650 thousand copies of Kadett A were made in the form of two-door, four-seat cars.

Do you want to know how the Opel Kadett of those times favorably differed from its competitors? One of the main decisions, which now seems self-evident, was the exit of the gas tank filler neck to one of the sides of the car. Among classmates, it was one of the first cars with such a solution, which made it possible to “not leak” the trunk with gasoline fumes. Not for nothing in those days Opel Kadett was called "O.K."

Opel Kadett B (1965 - 1973)

This generation launched "Das Auto" as a personalization of the brand. Over 4 meters long. The car has become an order of magnitude wider, larger and more spacious than the Kadett A, which was replaced by a new model under the letter "B". Despite the increase in size and practicality, the car had a flat sloping part. Clearly taken from sporty American fastbacks such as the first generation Ford Mustang, for example.

The 1.1 liter carburetor fell in love with customers for its high power - 45 hp. and 55 hp on "S" models. Unlike its honorary predecessor, Kadett B sold like hot cakes. About 2.6 million cars were built and about 50% of the built Opel Kadett were exported abroad. Opel Cadet A appeared in 120 countries around the world.

Opel Kadett C (1973 - 1979)

For this generation of Kadett, this 70s model spawned many body styles: the Kadett City three-door hatchback, the Kadett Caravan, the Kadett, the four-door "Limousine" and the Kadett Coupe. 1.7 million of these fourth-generation rear wheel drive Cadets (C) were produced through 1979.

What made Cadet special, you ask. For that, it must be said that the design was something new for Opel, especially the flat grille and front bumper with an integrated spoiler.

This generation of Opel Kadett is worthy of being remembered, if only for the GT/E model that debuted in 75. The fuel-injected 1.9 liter engine was good enough for 105 hp. and developed a maximum speed of 184 km / h.

Opel Kadett D (1979 - 1984)

In 1974, Kadett retrained as a front-wheel drive car. The first front-wheel drive model in the history of Opel appeared on the horizon at the turn of the 70s and 80s for a reason. This technical solution allowed to reduce the production cost and significantly improve the layout of the car.

The car may have been shorter by 126mm than the Kadett C, but the "D" had a much more spacious interior, a torsion beam axle and a 1.3 liter OHC petrol engine producing 60 or 75 hp. In addition to the station wagon with a decent luggage compartment capacity of 1.425 liters, the Kadett D was also assembled as a fastback. More than 2.1 million cars were created between 1979 and 1984. In 1983, one of the most interesting Opel Kadett GTE appeared. With a 1.8 liter engine, it had an impressive 115 hp. and a top speed of 187 km/h. Ooh, almost forgot! In the Cadet, already in the early 80s, there were ventilated disc front brakes.

Opel Kadett E (1984 - 1991)

Produced from '84 to '91 and sold 3,779,289 units during its existence.

"Car of the Year 1984" ("Car of the Year 1984") was a breakthrough of that era. Opel's best-selling model at the time boasted an aerodynamically balanced body that provided a drag coefficient of 0.32, which was not bad for the 80s.

After long hours spent by Opel in the wind tunnel, the Opel Kadett GSi was introduced to the world with a score of 0.30. At the time, it became the most aerodynamic hatchback in the world. With a 1.8 liter 16 valve, two-chamber engine with 156 hp. (115 kW) Opel Kadett GSi/GTe has become a real treat for fans.

Opel Astra F (1991 - 1997)

New chapter. The second coming of Opel compact cars. Whatever you think or say about it, but history cannot be changed, Astra put an end to the Opel Kadett pedigree. Let's not forget to pay tribute to the role of the model, since it was the Astra F that was sold with an incredible circulation of 4.13 units from 1991 to 1997. To this day, Astra F is the best-selling Opel model in the history of the company.

The name change was supposed to have an impact on better sales of Opel around the world.

The most important innovations in the Astra F were active safety systems, including the front seat belts were equipped with pretensioners, a large number of belt and seat adjustments, double steel pipes appeared in the doors to strengthen the doors and provide additional protection for passengers. The Astra F was also much more environmentally friendly, since all the engines that were installed on the car had catalysts.

Opel Astra G (1998 - 2004)

There was a more "compartment" design. Astra G began its life as a three- and five-door C-segment hatchback, and there was also. A little later, notchback sedan, coupe and convertible appeared. Aside from the aesthetic revolution, the Astra G was twice as stiff as the first generation Astra F.

The fully galvanized body is another factor that made the second generation Astra a revolutionary vehicle. With a wheelbase that's 100mm longer than the Astra F, the Opel Astra delivered great rear legroom and 370 liters of boot space with the rear seats up.

Opel Astra H (2004 - 2009)

The power range has expanded from 90 to 240 hp. thanks to a selection of a range of 12 engines, "H" offered 7 body styles. Approximately 2.7 million vehicles were sold during its life cycle. But what made the Opel (Vauxhall) Astra H memorable? First of all, this is an adaptive chassis, IDSPlus Continuous Damping Control (continuous damping control). Such a system was beyond fantasy for this segment at the beginning of the "zero".

Last but not least, Astra H gave 34 safety points. The safety of adult passengers in the compact car segment received high marks.

Opel Astra J (2009 - 2015)

We are slowly coming to an end. And before us appears the penultimate model 2009-2015 Opel Astra J. The design has acquired “licked” surfaces and wide rear arches. In general, it turned out to be a good, original, beautiful hatchback.

Astra J has a traffic sign recognition system Opel Eye, AFL + head lighting, AFP + automatic high beam, depending on road conditions. Adaptive FlexRide dampers, Watt-mechanism front suspension and a modern rear axle system gave this generation a serious chance of success among its competitors.

From a driver's and medical point of view, the front seats were given very favorable reviews, receiving multiple positive reviews from medical experts for their ergonomics.

Opel Astra K (since 2015)

Considering the technical characteristics of the Opel Astra H, it is necessary to take into account variations: more than 5 different engine sizes, a sedan, a station wagon, two hatchbacks and a convertible, 3 configurations.

Opel Astra H - specifications for the whole family

The technical characteristics of the Opel Astra H cannot be described in one paragraph. Because the Astra H is not just one car, it's a whole family. A line of at least 5 vehicles. Identical at first glance, but different in essence, in their driving performance, appearance and size.

Astra H began to be produced in 2004. In 2007, experienced a slight restyling. The technical characteristics of the engines have undergone changes. They have become more powerful, economical and environmentally friendly. The front bumper, mirrors, and some trim elements have also changed. Astra H is still being produced, in a station wagon, sedan or 5-door hatchback, but already under the name Astra Family.

A small car from the popular German concern Opel Astra K 2018-2019 is known not only in Russia, but also abroad.

The manufacturer did not wait for the official presentation of the new car and revealed the secrets of the technical characteristics of the novelty, thereby providing an opportunity for fans and future buyers to get acquainted with it, evaluate the changed appearance and interior from photographs.

Today, this is the latest version of the car, which is not yet for sale, and will enter the auto markets and car dealerships only next year. The body design has been improved, it began to look more rigid, and is very similar to previous generations of Opel family cars.

The stern is very similar to previous models, but its interior has changed a lot.

Design

The updated hatchback has five doors, it is made on a fundamentally new platform D2XX, which underlies the new lineup of cars. This platform made it possible to reduce body weight by 20% and chassis weight by 50 kilograms, compared with previous Opel models.

The design of the Astra is very attractive, the designer decided to attract a large number of young buyers to the hatchback by giving it an aggressive look. On the front panel there are a large number of LED lights that run along the entire length in a not wide strip.

Matrix optics, with the help of an electronic unit, examines information from the camera and translates the length and activity of the light stream in accordance with the situation on the track and the presence of other cars on it.

It has a curved hood and a voluminous radiator grille with chrome inserts. On the aerodynamic front bumper there are foglights of an unusual rectangular shape.

The sidewalls of the body of the Opel Astra are very similar to previous models. Plus are the large wheel arches. Neat stamping lines run along the bottom and top of the body. To give the car a sporty style, the exterior mirrors were mounted on a small leg. The upper edge of the glass has a chrome frame.

The stern has generated a lot of controversy and disagreement, some like it, while others do not. On the line connecting the stern to the roof, there is not a wide LED optics. There is a small spoiler on the top of the body. The rear bumper looks good because of the smooth stamping lines.

Astra K dimensions are as follows:

• length - 4370 mm;
• width - 1809 mm;
• height - 1485 mm;
• wheelbase - 2662 mm;
• ground clearance - 150 mm.

Specifications

Type of	Volume	Power	Torque	Overclocking	Max speed	Number of cylinders
Petrol	1.0 l	105 HP	170 H*m	11.2 sec.	200 km/h	3
Petrol	1.4 l	100 HP	130 H*m	12.3 sec.	185 km/h	4
Petrol	1.4 l	125 HP	245 H*m	9.2 sec.	205 km/h	4
Petrol	1.4 l	150 HP	230 H*m	8.3 sec.	215 km/h	4
Diesel	1.6 l	95 HP	280 H*m	12.7 sec.	185 km/h	4
Diesel	1.6 l	110 HP	300 H*m	11 sec.	195 km/h	4
Diesel	1.6 l	136 HP	320 H*m	9.6 sec.	205 km/h	4

The car has a large number of engines in its range, but what modifications will be sold in our country can only be guessed at.

Gasoline engine options offered by the manufacturer:

1. A weak engine, based on cubic capacity, is a three-cylinder gasoline engine, which also has a turbine. Its volume is liter, the power is 105 horses, and this helps the Opel Astra 2018-2019 to accelerate to 100 kilometers in 11.2 seconds, and the largest V = 200 km / h. Fuel consumption is low - 5 liters in the city, less on the highway.
2. Another variation of the engine is represented by a volume of 1.4 liters. The engine is atmospheric and can produce no more than 100 horses. Acceleration is worse than the previous one and is 12.3 seconds. The highest hatchback speed with such a unit is 185 km / h, with a consumption of 7 liters per 100 kilometers.
3. The third type of motor is identical to the previous one, but with a turbine. Its power is 125 horsepower, which reduces the dynamics by 3 seconds. Max speed is 205 km / h, and the consumption of gasoline is 7 liters on city streets and 4.5 liters outside the metropolis.
4. The most powerful in the Opel Astra line is a gasoline engine with a turbine. It has a volume of 1.6 liters, the power will be 200 horses, its dynamics is 7 seconds, with the highest acceleration of 235 km / h. Consumption in the city is relatively small, only 8 liters.

Diesel engines:

1. Next, we are presented with a power unit with a cubic capacity of 1.4 liters with an improved turbine, which gives power of 150 forces. It is better in acceleration - 8.5 seconds to 100 km, and the maximum speed of the car is 215 km / h. Consumption in the metropolis is 6 liters per hundred kilometers.
2. Another engine representative of diesels. He sixteen valve with a turbine. The cubic capacity is 1.6 liters, and the power is 95 horses. Dynamics up to a hundred - 13 seconds, and the highest V = 185 km / h. The waste of diesel fuel of this power unit is 4 liters within the city, and 3 liters outside it.
3. This is followed by a diesel unit, but with a power of up to 110 horses. Dynamics up to a hundred will be 11 seconds, and the maximum acceleration is 195 km / h. Fuel consumption at the level of the previous representative.
4. Also in the Astra K line of diesel engines there is a unit with a cubic capacity of 1.6 liters, the power of 136 horses, with acceleration in 9.6 seconds. Max V = 205 km / h, consumption is 4 liters in the city and 3 liters on the highway.
5. The 1.6-liter engine ends the line of diesel engines, the power is 160 forces. Acceleration is good, just 8.6 seconds to 100 km, the speedometer needle will stop at 218 km/h. Fuel consumption will be 5 liters in the metropolis and 3.6 liters outside it.

All engines are presented in pairs with a six-speed manual transmission, but the buyer is also offered a model with a five-speed robot and a six-speed automatic. No matter which model the car enthusiast chooses, they are all front-wheel drive. The company made the engines not only powerful, but also economical, which is very important.

Opel Astra K interior

If we talk about the space inside the cabin, then it remains the same, there is not so much of it. The quality of the material from which the interior will be made, according to company representatives, will be at a high level.

The driver will be offered a three-spoke leather-wrapped steering wheel, with a large number of buttons for the multifunctional system. The instrument panel is installed behind the steering column. It has an arrow-type speedometer and tachometer, and between them there is a screen that displays a large amount of necessary information.

If you take a closer look, you can see the updated door upholstery in the interior, on which comfortable armrests and small door handles are installed.

The console is located on top and is equipped with a decent monitor for a multifunctional system and a navigator. It is touch-sensitive and the car system is controlled using the keys. Below are located, the original form of the deflector, which serve to adjust the climate control, a separate type.

There is also a cavity in the center of the cabin for various small items, which is located on the console. There is also a cavity for placing glasses, as well as an electronic parking brake button.

The seats in the cabin of the new Astra are beautiful and voluminous, with strong support at the edges. The rear sofa is designed for three passengers, but it will not be very comfortable for them to sit - it is cramped.

The luggage compartment has a volume of 370 liters, but it can be increased to 1210 liters by folding the rear row seats. The main advantage of the car is its safety. For her, the car received a deserved five stars.

Astra price

The cost of the car is promised low. The company offers the lowest price for the basic equipment in the region of 17,000 euros. For a strong and well-equipped car, this is not so much.

Additional features that the hatchback can be equipped with at the request of the buyer:

• Sign recognition;
• Autonomous movement in a row on the highway;
• Rear view optics;
• Electrically adjustable seats (18 positions);
• Airing and seat massage option;
• Cruise control;
• Assistance with parking;
• Emergency braking of a car;
• Heated rear seats.

The brand has been popular for many years and for good reason. Opel Astra K (2018-2019) can be purchased both for trips in the city and for travel. It has a stylish appearance, a powerful but economical engine, a comfortable interior and many useful options.

Video

Opel Astra- Opel Kadett Cabrio Limousine (1936–1940) Bereits in den Jahren 1936 bis 1940 wurde der Opel Kadett I angeboten,… … Deutsch Wikipedia

Opel Astra F

Opel Astra G- Opel Astra L Opel Astra est une automobile de la marque allemande Opel qui est produite depuis 1991. L Astra remplace l Opel Kadett dans la gamme des compactes. Sommaire 1 Historique 1.1 Astra F (1991 à 1998) 1.1.1 Gamme ... Wikipédia en Français

Opel Astra H- Opel Astra L Opel Astra est une automobile de la marque allemande Opel qui est produite depuis 1991. L Astra remplace l Opel Kadett dans la gamme des compactes. Sommaire 1 Historique 1.1 Astra F (1991 à 1998) 1.1.1 Gamme ... Wikipédia en Français

opel astra- L Opel Astra est une automobile de la marque allemande Opel qui est produite depuis 1991. L Astra remplace l Opel Kadett dans la gamme des compactes. Sommaire 1 Historique 1.1 Astra F (1991 à 1998) 1.1.1 Gamme ... Wikipédia en Français

Opel Astra F- Opel Opel Astra Fünftürer (1991–1994) Astra F Hersteller: Opel Produktionszeitraum … Deutsch Wikipedia

Opel Astra- Fabricante Adam Opel AG Empresa matriz General Motors ... Wikipedia Español

Opel Astra G- Opel Opel Astra Fünftürer (1998–2002) Astra G Hersteller: Opel Produktionsze … Deutsch Wikipedia

Opel Astra ... Wikipedia

Opel Astra H- Opel Opel Astra Fünftürer (2004–2007) Astra H Hersteller: Opel … Deutsch Wikipedia

Opel Astra F ... Wikipedia

Books

• Opel Astra Zafira Models 1998-2005 with petrol engines 1 4L 1 6L 20L and 2 2L Chevtolet Viva Models 2004-2008 Repair and maintenance manual , . Workshop manual Opel Astra & Zafira 1998 - 2004 releases, equipment. 1.4 l (1389 cm 3), 1.6 l (1598 cm 3), 1.8 l (1796 cm 3), 2.0 l (1998 cm) and p ...
• Opel Astra Zafira Models 1998-2005 with turbodiesel engines 1 7 l and 2 0 l Repair and maintenance manual Expendable spare parts catalog Useful links With photos , . Workshop manual Opel Astra & Zafira 1998 - 2005 release, equipped with turbodiesel 1.7 l (1686 and 1700 cm 3) and 2.0 l (1994 cm 3) engines. Astra models with…

In 1991, the Opel Kadett was replaced by a new generation of "golf class" models with a sonorous name - Astra (translated from Latin - "star").

The first generation Opel Astra (under the index F) offered a wide range of modifications consisting of 3- and 5-door hatchbacks, a 4-door sedan, a 5-door Caravan station wagon and its commercial 3-door cargo version (without rear glazing). At the same time, sports modifications also debuted: GT, equipped with a 2-liter engine (115 hp), and the most powerful 16-valve GSI - 2.0 liter (150 hp). It is noteworthy that the GSI version was produced not only in the traditional modification (3-door hatchback), but also as a 5-door Caravan station wagon. Two years later, the range was expanded with the new four-seater Astra convertible.

The choice of powertrains is impressive. All 4-cylinder, in-line, from 1.4 to 2 liters. Two diesel engines - Opelevsky 1.7 l (60 hp) and Japanese Isuzy turbodiesel 1.7 l (82 hp). The most common in Russia is a 1.6-liter gasoline engine with central injection (C16NZ).

Most of the cars were equipped with a 5-speed manual transmission, Astra with a 4-speed "automatic" is much less common.

The interior of the car creates a pleasant impression. It is distinguished by simple lines, but everything is quite functional and practical. The decoration used high-quality materials. The seats are quite comfortable and have good lateral support. The dashboard is very elegant, and the center console, for greater convenience, is slightly turned towards the driver. On the front seats, a wide range of adjustments will allow you to take the optimal position behind the wheel.

Moderately soft and comfortable chassis Opel Astra does not cause trouble while driving, and thanks to the installation of an anti-roll bar in front and behind, the cars hold the road well. The front suspension is independent - McPherson type, and the rear is semi-independent with a separately installed spring shock absorber. The braking system is very effective, besides, cars of the last years of production were equipped with ABS as standard. For the most part, Astras have front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, and sports modifications have front and rear disc brakes.

The volume of the luggage compartment is unrivaled. The 3- and 5-door hatchbacks have a trunk volume of 360 liters, the 5-door Caravan station wagon has 500 liters, with the rear seats folded down 1200 liters and 1630 liters, respectively.

In 1994, the car was restyled and its appearance was slightly changed. The quality of the interior trim has been improved, an airbag has appeared in the steering wheel. The exterior of the restyled Astra was distinguished by a new false radiator grille.

In 1997, the second generation Opel Astra (G) was presented for the first time in Frankfurt. It is noteworthy that not a single important detail was taken from the predecessor. Opel offered the car completely redesigned. Design, ergonomics, driving performance, functionality, interior quality have been greatly improved. Astra was offered with three types of bodies: two hatchbacks - three- and five-door and station wagon. The Astra sedan appeared only a year later.

In the struggle for the consumer, Opel offers a wide range of modifications. Astra could be anything: sedate and fast, family and individual. The mass car had to please the buyer with different requests. The body of the new Astra is characterized by excellent aerodynamics. The drag coefficient Cx is only 0.29. Increased body strength. Its torsional rigidity has increased significantly compared to the body of the old Astra. We also note that about 20 grades of steel are used in the body of the new Astra. The second generation features a markedly improved corrosion resistance. Opel gives a 12-year warranty against rust through.

Safety is provided by seat belts, four pillows - two front and two side, hidden in the backs of the front seats. The pedal assembly is similar in design to that on the Opel Vectra. If, upon impact, the deformation touches the pedals, they do not move, but simply fall off: the brackets are crushed and “release” the pedals.

For the first time in the small middle class, the Astre G has a rear thruster suspension, which ensures the car's stable behavior in tight turns.

The interior space of the cabin is quite enough to comfortably accommodate five passengers.

Compared to the predecessor model, the number of modifications has been slightly reduced, since the convertible was discontinued. But there remained a sedan, a three- and five-door hatchback, as well as a Caravan station wagon.

Petrol power units were borrowed from the previous model, but the range of diesel engines was replenished with new 2.0-liter turbodiesels with a capacity of 82 hp. (or 101 hp in the version with direct fuel injection).

In 1999, on the basis of the Astra model, with the help of the Bertone design studio, a new version was created - with a Coupe body. A year later, it went into production, and in 2001, the Opel Astra Cabrio was also made on the basis of this car. Both of these modifications, despite the relatively low price, are a kind of exclusive, because they are assembled by hand at the Bertone studio factory.

The body of the Opel Astra Cabrio looks equally fast with both the top up and the top down. Has excellent aerodynamics. The drag coefficient Cx, even with the roof down, does not exceed 0.32. The roof of the new convertible folds and unfolds automatically, and only in the basic version the edge of the roof is fastened to the windshield with mechanical locks; in more advanced models, the locks are automatic and the roof can even be controlled remotely.

Three types of gasoline engines with a volume of 1.6 are installed on the car; 1.8 and 2.2 liters. The last of the power units debuted on the Opel Astra Coupe and was developed jointly by engineers from several divisions of the General Motors concern; it will be installed not only on the coupe and convertible, but also on other cars of the auto giant. The engine complies with Euro IV emission standards.

The second generation was discontinued in 2003. The era of the third generation of Astra cars has begun.

Distinctive features of the new Astra are more rapid body lines, as well as new head and rear optics, made in the style of the Opel Signum model. The interior of the novelty is distinguished by the high quality of the materials used and the stylish design. The third generation is built on a completely redesigned platform and includes a three- and five-door hatchback, as well as a station wagon (Caravan) and a convertible.

The range of engines is represented by: 1.4 liter (90 hp), 1.6 liter (105 hp), 1.8 liter (125 hp) and 2.2 liter petrol engines, as well as 1, 7- and 2.2-liter turbodiesels. Buyers are offered a choice of a five-speed manual transmission, a five-speed sequential electronic automatic (Easytronic), a four-speed classic automatic or a new six-speed manual (for the turbo version). Suspension - front McPherson, rear dependent.

The latest generation Opel Astra Caravan will have 580 liters of cargo space, which is 50 liters more than the previous generation model. We also note that for this novelty, the FlexOrganizer system will also be offered, which allows optimizing the placement of luggage in the cargo compartment, which first appeared on the Opel Vectra station wagon.

It should also be noted that the new generation of this model meets all modern safety requirements and has received many new passive and active safety systems, including adaptive airbags.

The new Opel Astra has an impressive set of basic and additional options for its class. Opel Astra is equipped with an adaptive electronic suspension control system (IDSPlus); system of stepless regulation of its characteristics (CDC); The IDS plus system ensures good vehicle dynamics when entering sport mode, which can be activated by simply pressing a dedicated button.

For the first time, vehicles of this class are equipped with an adaptive headlight beam control (AFL) and a system for automatically switching them on when the road illumination decreases.

In 2004, Opel introduced the Astra GTC (Gran Turismo Compact). The target group of buyers of this car consists of both lovers of fast driving and connoisseurs of sophisticated automotive style. The proportions of the GTC, which is 15 mm shorter than the base version, are emphatically dynamic. The eye is attracted by short overhangs and a more embossed aft than the five-door Astra. The sloping roof, triangular side windows and powerful sidewalls are designed to speak about the combat nature of the car.

From the prototype, the production car inherited not only the general outlines, but also a wonderful glass roof, which can be ordered as additional equipment. The large glass area of ​​the body provides a good overview.

The high ergonomics of the driver's seat and the interior trim made of high quality materials emphasize the advantages of the car. Designers provide several interior options: from classic gray and black to bright red and blue. Astra GTC is offered in three performance levels: Enjoy, Cosmo and Sport.

Despite the fact that the car has become shorter than the five-door version, two adult passengers can comfortably sit in the back. The volume of the trunk remained unchanged - it still amounts to 380 liters. But due to the fact that the rear seats fold in a ratio of 60:40 as standard or 40:20:40 as an option, the boot space can be modulated.

The standard equipment of the car includes front and side airbags, a CD player, ABS, power windows, heated exterior mirrors, an anti-dust package, Break Assistant and other equipment. Among the options are the increasingly popular CD-recorder with the ability to play MP3 files, as well as electronic systems ESP and HAS.

The Astra GTC has a wide range of engines, consisting of five petrol and three diesel engines equipped with a common-rail system. The power of the engines varies from 90 to 200 hp, all of them comply with Euro 4 standards in terms of exhaust purity.

In the line of gasoline powertrains, the flagship is a 200-horsepower 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. With it, the Astra GTC has a top speed of 234 km/h. Among turbodiesels, the top is a 1.9-liter engine with 150 hp. With. These versions are equipped with 6-speed manual transmissions and Interactive Driving System (IDSPlus) adaptive suspensions with electronic damping control.

For Astra GTC adaptive AFL headlights are provided with light beam adjustment depending on the angle of rotation of the front wheels. With the SportSwitch button, the driver can activate the sport mode, which adjusts the ground clearance and accelerator settings. In general, everything for the pleasure of driving.

The three-door Astra GTC is produced in Belgium, in Antwerp. They also assemble a station wagon and a hatchback.

The new generation of Opel Astra was presented during the 2009 Frankfurt Salon. The 2010 Astra five-door hatchback is based on GM's new Delta II front-wheel drive platform. The length of the wheelbase of the car compared to its predecessor has increased by 71 millimeters (up to 2685 millimeters), while the front and rear tracks have expanded by 56 and 70 millimeters, respectively. In addition, the angular rigidity of the front and rear suspension has increased, and the body has become stiffer by 43 percent in torsion and 10 percent in bending.

Astra 2010 bears little resemblance to its predecessor - both inside and out. The new model has not inherited almost a single detail. A new generation and a completely new look. The quadrangular headlights have given way to complex optics with LED lights, the radiator grille is made in the style of Insignia, and the general shape of the fog lamp sections and the lower air intake has remained the same, but slightly "modernized". Even in the five-door version, the car has become noticeably sportier - a dynamic roofline, a strongly sloping rear window that enhances the “coupe” effect, deep stamping on the doors, sharp edges of the hood and fashionable LED headlights.

The interior is pleasing to the eye and pleasant to the touch. The main motive is the softness and logic of the lines and the concept of the "cockpit": the interior elements seem to surround the driver. Pleasant to the touch finishing materials, sports seats from Insignia (optional), diffused red illumination of the door handles and the central tunnel in the area of ​​​​the gearshift lever, many compartments for small things, which the predecessor lacked so much. There are pockets on the doors, and a “shelf” on the center console, and a voluminous box under the front passenger seat, a niche to the left of the steering wheel, as well as cup holders with a secret “underfloor” that will fit a mobile phone, wallet or GPS navigator. The manufacturer has significantly improved the sound insulation of the cabin. New seals were installed, the hollow sections in the body were insulated, and the aerodynamics of external elements, such as rear-view mirrors and even door handles, were worked out in detail.

Astra 2010 has become not only more practical, but also more spacious - the new interior is wider both at the level of the shoulders of passengers and at the level of the hips, and the adjustment ranges of the front seats are simply huge: the front seats move back and forth by 28 centimeters, and up and down - by 6.5 centimeters.

Depending on the configuration, the interior can be decorated in different ways. In the basic version of Essentia, the center console is made in dark colors, and the seats are upholstered in fabric with a contrasting pattern of pillows and inserts on the backs. In the Enjoy modification, the inserts on the doors and consoles can be made in black, red or blue. In the Sport, the center console, door handles and trim around the air vents are finished in piano black. The Cosmo version offers different seats and a two-tone console finish. If desired, a heated steering wheel can now be ordered.

In order to please practical drivers, Opel engineers came up with the FlexFloor system. Simply put, this is a movable trunk floor, which can be located on three levels and is able to withstand a load of up to 100 kilograms. In the lower position - it's just a regular cover, the same level as the curtain covering the repair kit. On average, the shelf is flush with the folded rear seatbacks, removing a step and making it easier to accommodate long items. Due to the fact that the floor level rises slightly, an additional compartment is formed under the shelf with a depth of 55 millimeters and a volume of 52 liters. In its highest position, the shelf aligns the floor of the luggage compartment with the rear bumper, which allows you to load heavy cargo into the trunk without bending down. The section under the shelf in this case increases its volume to 126 liters and its depth to 157 millimeters. In a word, the FlexFloor system allows you to correctly distribute the space in the trunk. For the cheapest versions, FlexFloor will be offered as an option.

The wide range of Ecotec engines proves that it is possible to combine high power and driving dynamics with fuel efficiency and low emissions in the Opel Astra 2010. The car is equipped with naturally aspirated petrol engines (1.4 Ecotec/101 hp and 1.6 Ecotec/116 hp), as well as compact turbocharged engines with a maximum output of 1.4 l/140 hp. and 1.6 l / 180 hp respectively. All of them are built according to 16-valve technology and are equipped with modern systems that optimize the parameters of the intake air flow. The engines are built using lightweight materials and designs that minimize their weight. Modern mechanical gearboxes (5 or 6-speed) are combined with gasoline engines. In addition, all engines except the 1.4 Ecotec can be used with the new 6-speed automatic transmission with ActiveSelect. The range of diesel units is represented by three engines: 1.3 l / 95 hp, 1.7 l with a capacity of 110 hp. and 125 hp and 2.0 l / 160 hp

The 2010 Astra chassis combines a MacPherson strut front suspension similar to that found on the Insignia, and a newly developed intelligent torsion beam rear suspension with Watt mechanism. This new design reduces unwanted noise and vibration for a more comfortable cabin and improved vehicle handling.

Another new addition is the optional FlexRide adaptive suspension. Chassis control is handled by a specially designed Chassis Mode Control (DMC) that recognizes 11 different driving situations, such as constant high or low speed, cornering or accelerating. Based on this, it automatically optimizes the parameters of all driving assistance systems integrated in the vehicle's chassis. Another key component of the FlexRide system is Dynamic Suspension Control (CDC), which adjusts suspension stiffness in real time based on changing vehicle operating conditions. It works in three modes: automatic (Standart), sports (Sport) and comfortable (Tour). In the first case, the chassis adjusts to the road situation and driving style - the electronics decide on their own whether to leave the softest settings for better ride or, on the contrary, increase the force on the steering wheel and make the shock absorbers stiffer.

In Sport mode, the white illumination of the dashboard changes to red, the steering wheel is filled with “heaviness”, the responses to pressing the gas pedal and the reaction of the adaptive headlights are exacerbated. Moreover, the driver can turn off one of these parameters through the on-board computer by setting the Sport mode for himself. Tour mode is the most comfortable. It noticeably lengthens the reactions to the steering wheel, the bumps in the road are no longer transmitted to the body, and in sharp turns the car begins to roll. In extreme situations, the system automatically adjusts the suspension stiffness to provide the best handling and safety, regardless of the selected mode.

In September 2010, at the Paris Motor Show, the elegant Opel Astra Sports Tourer wagon will premiere, combining first-class functionality with an athletic body and stylish design. The model is made in the same style as the 5-door hatchback and demonstrates the presence of smooth, but athletic forms and curved side lines. The impeccable profile and flared sidewalls give the Astra Sports Tourer a sense of agility, while the powerful shoulder line flows succinctly into the elegant taillights. The station wagon took the design features of the 105.7-inch wheelbase from the hatchback, additionally acquiring increased load capacity and much more interior space.

Opel has developed the FlexFold rear seat system, which allows you to move each section of the rear row at the touch of a button located on the side panel of the luggage compartment. The button automatically activates the 60/40 quick folding of the rear seats. The Opel Astra Sports Tourer is the first C-Class to be equipped with this system. Luggage compartment volumes vary from 500 to 1550 liters. The Easy-Access Cargo Cover, borrowed from the luxury segment, allows the luggage compartment cover to be opened with a light touch.

The Astra Sports Tourer features high-quality interior trim. For comfortable driving over long distances, the car is equipped with ergonomic front seats that have been certified by independent spinal health experts from Aktion Gesunder Rűcken (AGR), the German medical association that sets orthopedic requirements for car seats.

From the innovative Watt-link rear suspension used in the Opel Astra 5-door model, the rear axle of the new station wagon also benefited: it provides a reliable level of handling and high adaptability to increased weight loads. Optionally, for the most demanding drivers, adaptive Flexride suspensions will be offered.

If we talk about the technical characteristics of the Opel Astra Sports Tourer, then the range of powertrains for the station wagon contains 8 engines that combine efficiency, strength, functionality and environmental friendliness. The maximum power is in the range from 95 hp. up to 180 hp

The presence of a standard towing device and the Trailer Stability Assist trailer stabilization system completes the list of options offered. In addition, Opel engineers are developing a new generation of integrated FlexFix bike racks, which will be introduced a little later.

In 2011, Opel released the second generation of the Astra GTC three-door hatchback. The car stands out for its original design and excellent handling. Compared to the five-door version of the Astra, the ground clearance has been reduced by 15 mm, the front wheel track has become 1584 mm, which is 40 mm more, the rear - 1588 mm, an increase of 30 mm, and the wheelbase has grown by 10 mm - up to 2695 mm. This allows the GTC to be fitted with larger diameter wheels (from 17 to 20 inches) for improved stability and a sportier appearance.

There are some similarities with the 5-door version of the Opel Astra, but these two cars do not have a single common body part! Because everything has been changed: from the expression of the “face” to the tilt of the body pillars and even the chassis.

Excellent dynamics and first-class handling are achieved through a unique chassis design. Like the coolest Opel Insignia OPC, the Astra GTC front suspension uses modified MacPherson struts. Only here they are called HiPer Strut (for High Performance). Their main difference is the steering knuckle separated from the rack. The angle of its transverse inclination is less than that of an all-turning rack, which reduces the angle of camber in corners. The patch of their contact with the asphalt becomes larger, and corners can be passed faster. The steering knuckle itself is shorter than the rack, which reduces the sensitivity of the steering to shocks. The front suspension is perfectly matched to the sophisticated Watt mechanism rear suspension system, Opel's patented technology. The Astra GTC chassis is specifically designed to integrate with the intelligent FlexRide adaptive suspension control system. It improves track stability, cornering stability and handling by automatically adapting to road conditions, vehicle speed and individual driving style. In addition, the FlexRide system allows you to select one of three chassis modes and change the behavior of the car at the touch of a button: at any time you can select a balanced Standard mode, a comfortable Tour or a more active Sport mode.

Opel Astra GTC is offered with a choice of four engines, three of which are petrol and one diesel. If a five-door engine range starts from 95 hp, then here from 120 hp.

These are the 1.4-liter petrol turbos already known from the five-door in versions of 120 and 140 hp. Fuel consumption is 5.9 liters per 100 km. The level of CO2 emissions is 139 g/km. The most powerful petrol engine is a 1.6-liter turbocharged version with 180 hp, which allows speeds up to 220 km / h, it is presented with a six-speed manual gearbox.

The most promising engine for Europe, a 2.0 CDTi turbodiesel with Start-Stop mode, produces five forces and as much as 30 Nm more than a five-door: 165 hp. and 380 Nm. The Opel Astra GTC 2.0 CDTI is capable of reaching speeds of 210 kilometers per hour, accelerating from standstill to 100 kilometers per hour in 8.9 seconds, while consuming fuel in the combined cycle of 4.9 liters per 100 kilometers. The level of CO2 emissions is 129 g/km.

Despite its attractive coupe-style design, the Astra GTC doesn't sacrifice functionality. The car can accommodate not only five passengers, but also has a trunk with a volume of 370 to 1,235 liters. The amount of storage space in the cabin has increased by 50% compared to the previous generation GTC, mainly due to the presence of an electric parking brake, which freed up space in the most accessible part of the cabin - in the center tunnel.

The second generation Opel Eye camera is called to assist the driver. In addition to participating in the signaling of falling out of a row, she learned to recognize more road signs and determine the distance to the car in front (depending on it, she also gives the command to switch the bi-xenon light from high to low).