Astra wagon gets diesel

HOLDEN will add a fourth diesel model to its range on June 1, when a single oil-burning version of the Astra wagon becomes available at $32,490 - $3000 more than the similarly-specified (CDX-badged) petrol version ($29,490).

Like the six-speed automatic Astra diesel hatch, the auto-only Astra CDTi Wagon is powered by a 1.9-litre turbocharged four-cylinder diesel engine that produces 88kW at 3500rpm and 280Nm at 2000rpm - unlike the manual Astra diesel hatch, which develops 110kW and 320Nm. It returns ADR 81/01 combined fuel consumption of 7.1L/100km.

Standard features include 16-inch alloy wheels, foglights, cruise control and semi-automatic climate-control, while safety equipment comprises ESP stability/traction control plus ABS, EBD, BA and six airbags including full-length side curtains.

“The Astra CDTi Wagon will appeal to customers in search of something a little roomier as well as a vehicle that offers outstanding performance, combined with great fuel economy and safety,” said GM Holden’s director of marketing Philip Brook.

The diesel Astra wagon is available in six exterior paint colours, four of which are metallic hues that cost an extra $360: Casablanca White, Power Red, Star Silver Metallic, Black Sapphire Metallic, Pannacotta Metallic and Metro Metallic.

Holden says that more than 218,725 Astras have been sold in Australia to date, making the European designed and built GM small-car Holden’s second most popular nameplate behind Commodore and Australia’s best-selling imported European vehicle last year.

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