First look: Shot in the arm for Astra

HOLDEN’S European affiliate Opel has unveiled an overhauled Astra ahead of its debut at the Bologna motor show next month and likely Australian debut at the Melbourne International Motor Show in March.

The biggest changes are under the bonnet. A new 132kW/230Nm 1.6-litre turbo engine replaces the 125kW 2.0-litre unit, offering 0-100km/h acceleration (with the standard six-speed manual gearbox) in a claimed 7.8 seconds.

Top speed is 210km/h, while economy is 6.4L/100km combined. The natural-breathing 1.6-litre Twinport engine has also been revised, with power increasing from 78kW to 85kW and the combined fuel economy figure reducing to 5.4L/100km.

Two new turbo-diesels have been added to the line-up, both 1.7-litre CDTi units in different states of tune. Paired with a six-speed manual transmission, the 81kW/260Nm and 92kW/280Nm CDTi engines feature common-rail injection and a maintenance-free particulate filter.

Cosmetic enhancements include new front and tail-light lenses, new front bumpers, extra chrome detailing on the grille and the choice of piano black or matt chrome interior detailing.