Astra – Page 2 – Automobiles Review

2016 Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Will be Even More Flexible

Vauxhall’s 2016 Astra Sports Tourer will make its debut at 2015 Frankfurt Motor Show. Like its five-door sibling, the Sports Tourer is based on lightweight architecture technology, fresh design and improved drivetrain system.

Style

Just like the five-door hatch, the 2016 Sports Tourer embraces the “Sculptural Artistry meets Technical Precision” philosophy. But not only that. It even takes it to the next level.

The vehicle will come with extended dynamic lines and slightly arched sloping roofline. This combination gives the Tourer a sort of longer appearance. And the effect is even further enhanced by the divided C-pillar. And now the Tourer has a stable, robust but still confident stance.

Drivetrain System

The engines available for the vehicle are petrol and diesel units offering from 100 hp (73 kW) to 200 hp (147 kW). And now the latest 1.4-Liter 150 hp (110 kW) ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo and the 1.6-Liter CDTi Whisper Diesel are also included. Furthermore, the 200 hp 1.6-Liter ECOTEC petrol unit will make its debut at the Frankfurt Show.

Chassis

Depending on the model, the trim level is up to 200 kg lighter than its predecessor. The revised vehicle architecture is what makes this difference in weight so drastic. Furthermore, every components was created for compact design and with lightweight materials.

Connectivity

The vehicle offers Astra OnStar technology, which is famous for its high-speed 4G LTE mobile network, emergency response notification and stolen vehicle recovery alert. The Sports Tourer also offers and the already famous Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems, available through the latest version of the IntelliLink infotainment system.

Source: Vauxhall

September 10, 2015

KARL and Its Tiny Big Powerplant

Considered as one of the best models in the mini-car class by Auto Bild (issue 32/2015) the Opel KARL now has and other tricks to show us. Now the entry-level model can be directly ordered with the economical ecoFLEX version. This unit is ideal for everyday use and offers Start/Stop system and three cylinders and produces a total of 75hp (55kW) power output. The 1.0-liter powerplant consumes a total of 4.1 liters of gasoline and has CO2 emissions of just 94 grams per kilometer. Nice, huh?

Let me remind you that the latest Opel Astra debuts at the Frankfurt Motor Show on 15th of September

Furthermore, the one-liter aluminum unit is a member of the well-known and beloved gasoline family, whose members ensure that Corsa and ADAM models do offer some nice performance and smoothness on the road. It looks like the engineers paid attention to the noise and vibration reduction and to the absorbing cam cover, which contributes to some nice and flexible engine manners. Sweet, right?

KARL and its offerings

But this is not everything the vehicle is offering. KARL also brings some nice engineering and technical solutions for all the Opel lovers out there. The vehicle now weights 939 kilograms and the five-door models offer wider interior space and a luggage volume, expanded to 1,013 liters. And along with the ABS, Traction Control, Stability Control and other systems, KARL can be further equipped with some additional safety features: there is an optional Lane Departure Warning System, front camera, cornering light function, fog lights and many other.

And from the fall of 2015, Opel KARL can be ordered with latest generation IntelliLink infotainment system and some other connectivity gadgets as Opel OnStar.

Source: Opel

August 19, 2015

Will the Latest Vauxhall Astra Be Really That Interesting?

Vauxhall’s latest Astra will be unveiled at the 2015 International Motor Show (IAA) in Frankfurt on 15th of September, around 09:00 at Stand D09 in Hall 8.0. Created at the Ellesmere Port plant in Cheshire, the model will be with 200 kg lighter than its predecessors and will also feature interesting engineering solutions: the vehicle will be smaller from the outside, but more spacious from the inside. Nice.

The latest Astra will grant owners with numerous powerplant options, both diesel and petrol units. Buyers can chose among several engine models with power ranging from 100 hp (73 kW) to 200 hp (147 kW). In fact, among the engine units, there is also the latest 1.4-liter 145 hp ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo with four cylinders. This guy is from the same lineup as the one-liter and three-cylinder engines in Corsa, ADAM and VIVA models. The more the flexibility the more the fun, right?

The all-new Brit-built Astra raises the bar in terms of quality, design and connectivity

And along with the sweet and elegant lines, the latest Vauxhall vehicle will also offer and numerous technology features. Owners will deal with OnStar system, high-speed 4G LTE mobile network, emergency response notification system and stolen vehicle recovery system. Furthermore, the Astra will be one of the first to introduce Apple CarPlay and Android Auto systems. And also, the vehicle will be the first to feature the OnStar technology. It seems that the Astra will be the first in many technological terms, but will it be the first or among the first to earn people’s trust in terms of safety and performance? We are about to find out.

Source: Vauxhall

August 18, 2015

Opel Astra TCR Reveals Some Minor Details

Astra TCR Side

Opel expands its racing lineup The latest sports vehicle is based on the new Astra, which will make its world debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show (IAA) this September and it will develop the vehicle in accordance with the regulation of the TCR series for national and international racing events.

The TCR series, first demonstrated in 2015, is based on a special three-pillar concept, that further includes national and continental race events along with the global TCR International Series. In fact, both have identical technical regulations. That is why a TCR vehicle can be used worldwide without changing anything on the drivesystem. In fact, the car will compete with the well-known 2.0-liter turbo-charged powerplant units with a total output of 330 hp (242 kW) and torque of 410 Nm. Isn’t it sweet?

Astra TCR Side Rear

Opel Group CMO Tina Müleer says, that the touring racing has always been important part of Opel. The idea behind the latest TCR series is in a special relation with the idea of customer racing. Tina also says that the brand wants to give ambitious teams platform for sports at reasonable costs. How reasonable will be these costs is yet to be proved.

Astra TCR is currently being developed, so at this phase all that Opel has to offer are the two sketches. In fact, even with the paintings, the vehicle looks nice and confident. Hopefully it will remain as this and in reality. Technical specification will be announced later this year.

Source: Opel

July 31, 2015

ECOTECH: 2016 Opel Astra Comes With To Show What Style and Pleasure

Opel‘s latest 1.4-liter engine is called ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo and will celebrate its debut in the latest Opel Astra at the International Motor Show in Frankfurt, held this September. In its core this is a four-cylinder turbocharged machine, that comes with a special direct injection system and will be available with two outputs: 125 hp (92 kW) and 150 hp (110 kW). As you also noticed, this combination is similar to the recently introduced 1.0-ECOTEC Direct Injection, geared with Opel ADAM and Corsa models. We can even say, that the 1-4-liter ECOTEC is sort of the big brother of the 1.0 version. Furthermore, both engines are part of the small gasoline engine family: this is a lineup of advanced engines with three and four cylinders and trunks below 1.6 liters. This lineup plays important role in today’s Opel plans for development, as the lineup contains 17 engines.

The Latest Opel ECOTECH engine is a pleasure to the ears and for the purse

ecotech

Opel team paid a lot of attention to improve the dynamics and responsiveness of the unit. Now, the ECOTECH unit provides between 2,000 and 3,500 rpm: incredible torque plateau. Further improvements were also made onto the efficiency rates of the powerplant. Now it delivers not that bad emissions, measured at 114g/km and consumes about 5 liters of gasoline for every 100 km (62 miles). And this is not all. Engineers have also paid attention to the reduction of the noise volume, coming from the engine, that now purrs like a little kitten. But beware! The kitten can instantly become a furious tiger if you dare to step properly on the gas pedal!

Lightweight and efficiency. ECOTECH offers both.

ecotech

The 1.4 ECOTECH engine now adds less kilograms to the overall weight of the vehicle, which means two things: the fewer kilograms mean lighter and better handling and also it means lower fuel consumption. Furthermore, while the three-cylinder Opel vehicles are developed even smaller, lighter and more efficient, the 1.4 ECOTECH is “rightsized”: engineers at Opel use this term to explain, that the vehicle reached the perfect balance between weight, performance and comfort.

The 2016 Astra looks really promising vehicle and we will continue to bring news about it and from Opel brand. So, for further information stay with us!

Source: Opel

June 19, 2015

2015 Vauxhall Astra Comes More Flexible and Even More Adaptive!

2015 Vauxhall Astra is ready for the showrooms in October. The model, built at Vauxhall‘s manufacturing plant in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire, has a lot of features to demonstrate, including beautiful design, numerous technology units and different trims.

The 2015 Astra lineup also includes a 1.0-Liter three-cylinder Turbo Start/Stop ecoFLEX engine, paired to an Easytronic five-speed automatic transmission and a class leading emissions, measured at 96g/km. The range also includes the 1.6-Liter, available with the SRI trim, that provides 200 hp (147kW) and the special 1.6-liter Start/Stop ecoFlex “Whisper Diesel” with 110 hp (80 kW), that achieves 91.1mpg and class-leading CO2 emissions of 82g/km

And here we show you what the different trims have to offer:

Design

2015 Vauxhall Astra Back

This pack brings the 16-inch alloy wheels, LED daytime headlights, six airbags, R4.0 InterLink audio system, 7-inch multimedia touch screen, Cruise Control system and steering wheel controls

Tech Line (over Design)

The trim offers the special Navi 900 satellite navigation system and 8-inch touch screen monitor as well a leather steering wheel and adjustable armset.

Energy (over Design)

The Energy pack brings the special 17-inch 10 spoke alloy wheels and heated front seats and heated steering wheel

SRi (over Design)

2015 Vauxhall Astra Interior

The pack has a lots of features to offer: 17-inch five twin-spoke alloy wheels, Driving Assistance Pack with included front camera, OnStar, Sight&Light Pack, Sports seats set, leather steering wheel and front foglamps.

SRi Nav (applied over SRi pack)

This pack completes the SRi set with 900 satellite navigation system and adds a special 8-inch touch screen and voice recognition function

Elite (over Design)

the pack offers 17-inch multi spoke alloy wheels, leather ergonomic seats with extendable cushions, electrical lumbar, heated rear seats, OnStar, Sight&Light Pack

Electronic climate control, front foglamps and electrically foldable mirrors

Elite Nav (over Elite)

The last pack brings a Navi 900 satellite navigation system and 8-inch touch screen. Voice recognition function is also included

As you can see, the 2016 Astra model surely has a lot to offer. And now with the numerous trims and packs the vehicle can get really flexible and adaptive to any character and road.

What do you think of the latest Astra model?

Source: Vauxhall

June 17, 2015

Vauxhall Astra is here! First Official Pictures and Data Released

2015 Vauxhall Astra is unleashed! The company has finally released the first official photos of the car and detailed data revealing a lot ahead of its official premiere in Frankfurt this September. There are a lot of exiting facts about it. First, the new Astra is about 200kg lighter than outgoing model. Although it is smaller on the outside, Vauxhall says that it is bigger on the inside.

In addition, the engine range now features the 145PS 1.4-liter petrol unit. Another interesting fact is that this is the first Vauxhall ever to feature OnStar technology. There is also an IntelliLink R 4.0 that is compatible with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Lightweight Design

This is actually the seventh generation of the Astra model which is scheduled for production later this year. Depending on the trim level, the new car sheds an average of 130kg and up to 200kg, when compared with its predecessor. Major role for this plays the new architecture of the car.

Every component of it was made of lightweight materials like the high- and ultra-high-strength low-weight steels. The compact subframes and the weight reductions to the front and rear axle also play crucial role.

Drivetrains

The powertrain portfolio of the model features petrol and diesel units with power output ranging from 100PS to 200PS. The star here is the new petrol 1.4-litre ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo unit, which not only generates more than 145 PS but also 250Nm, available between 1,800rpm and 4,000rpm.

The base level engine is the 1.0 ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo petrol with 105 PS, and the diesels are based on the 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ with output range from 110PS up to 160PS.

Exterior Design

The design of the 2015 Vauxhall Astra is based on the Monza Concept. The car actually looks better than ever with its athletic and imposing stance. At the front we see how the front IntelliLux LED Matrix Light headlamps flow into the radiator grille, but the most significant design cue can be seen on the sides where the divided C-pillar creates the impression of a floating roof.

As mentioned, the seventh generation Astra is smaller on the outside, but bigger inside. It has a total length of 4.37m making it 5cm shorter than its predecessor. The height is 1.46m, which is also 2.6cm lower.

Interior Design

Although the wheelbase has been reduced by 2cm, the amount of space inside was increased. This is due to the implementation of the newly-designed seats, which allow the rear passengers the experience of additional 35mm legroom.

The instrument panel features clean look and includes large colour touchscreen in the centre stack and a reduced amount of control switches and buttons.

At last, the OnStar is going to be featured for the first time in a Vauxhall, while the IntelliLink – in an Astra. The latter is an infotainment system which is compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

June 2, 2015

Opel Astra with Better Fuel Economy Due to the Addition of 1.6 CDTI Engine

Opel Astra gets additionally enhanced with more economical engine – the 110 hp (81 kW) 1.6 CDTI. The unit emits only 94 grams of CO2 per kilometer and this is equivalent to 3.6 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. And for those who chose the 100 kW/136 hp output version, Opel has good news, because it is improved and emits only 99 grams of CO2 per kilometer. In addition to this it needs just 3.7 liters of diesel. The more powerful version accelerates the Astra sedan from 0 to 100 km/h in 10.1 seconds and achieves maximum speed of 205 km/h.

After introducing the new gen 1.6 CDTI engine into the Astra, the engineers at Opel have continued working on improving it. This is how it now delivers up to five percent less emissions and consumption while maintaining the same performance.

There are new low-friction components which have been utilized for the chassis and the bodywork. For instance such are the improved drive shafts or the low-rolling-resistance tires. There is also an Aero Package that includes a lowered chassis and active radiator shutters. They help duce aerodynamic drag.

The ‘eco Astras’ are offered in three- and five-door, sedan and Sport Tourer variants. They are equipped with AGR (German Healthy Back Campaign) stamped ergonomic front seats and Opel’s modern IntelliLink infotainment system. Safety premium technologies are also added. They include Opel Eye front camera with Following Distance Indication, Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Departure Warning or the rearview camera, Park Assist with parking spot recognition and audiovisual parking assistance, Side Blind Spot Alert and the safety lighting system AFL+.

Source: Opel

February 10, 2015

Irmscher Opel Astra GTC Turbo

Irmscher has preented their latest project based on Opel Astra GTC Turbo powered by a 1.4 liter turbocharged petrol engine. Irmscher Astra i 1400 comes with styling and performance upgrades as well. There are also interior modifications bringing more pleasure for the occupants.

The exterior boasts a new front lip spoiler, a modified front grille and a set of enormous 20” light alloy wheels fitted with ultra-low profile tires. There are also wide side skirts, a tailgate-mounted spoiler, a new rear diffuser and a four-tailpipe sports exhaust system. The ride height is lowered by a set of sport springs with 30 mm. This improves not only the stance, but the handling as well.

The interior comes with a new premium leather upholstery, new aluminum door pins, a set of aluminum pedals and branded floor mats with Irmscher logo.

The 1.4 liter four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine is boosted to 170HP (125 kW) – an increase of 30HP (22 kW).

Irmscher will produce only 100 units and pricing is available upon request. All components are also available separately.

Source: Irmscher

August 22, 2014

2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC Gets New Diesel Engine

2014 Vauxhall Astra GTC will be more powerful on the road thanks to its new and refined 1.6 CDTi ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine. The Astra GTC is the latest model which will take the advantage of getting the more economical new unit, which was at first introduced in the Astra, Meriva and Zafira Tourer. In fact, Vauxhall has announced that due to the introduction of this powerplant, there will be a cessation of the 1.7 CDTi.

Precisely, the ‘Whisper Diesel’ engine produces 136 horsepower (100 kW) and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. It is coupled with an improved six-speed manual transmission, which ensures that the refinement and economy of the unit matches its performance.

Astra GTC will be available for the MY2014 in three trim levels: Sport, Limited Edition and Sri Trims. They will be all equipped with Start/Stop and with a braking energy recuperation system as standard. The result is that the GTC 1.6 CDTi will deliver fuel efficiency of up to 68.9 mpg on the combined cycle and CO2 emissions of just 104g/km and 109g/km.

The engine is also Euro 6-compliant, and Vauxhall states that this is one of the engines best in its class for noise and vibration. This is due to the efficient combustion process with multiple injection, re-designed components and the utilization of acoustic covers.

Source: Vauxhall

July 11, 2014

2014 Opel Astra GTC 1.6 CDTI – 136HP and 320Nm

Opel is now offering the new Astra GTC with the updated 1.6 liter CDTI diesel engine. It ensures a powerful and clean drive in the sporty compact coupe. The model is currently available on the market and priced from €24,390 (including VAT).

The 1.6 liter CDTI diesel replaces the 1.7 liter unit. The new power unit delivers more power (+7 HP and 20Nm) and boasts lower fuel consumption. The 1.6 liter CDTI produces 136HP (100 kW) and 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque. 0-100 km/h in 10.2 seconds and a top speed of 198 km/h (123 mph). Additionally the elasticity is drastically improved – 80 to 120 km/h in 8.9 seconds instead of the previous 10.5 seconds.

The fuel efficiency stands at 4.1 liters / 100 km (57.3 mpg US or 68.9 mpg UK) in combined cycle with CO2 emissions of 109 g/km.

The engine is connected to an improved 6-speed manual transmission and features a start/stop system. A host of enhancements to the transmission components and shifting mechanisms, as well as to integration in the vehicle, led to noticeable improvements in comfort.

Other power units in Astra GTC’s range include the high-performance diesel 2.0 BiTurbo CDTI with 195HP (143 kW) and 400Nm (296 lb-ft) of torque; the top-of-the-line OPC model with 2.0 liter turbocharged petrol – 280HP (206 kW) and 400Nm (296 lb-ft). There is also a powerful 1.6 liter ECOTEC Direct Injection Turbo – 170HP (125 kW) and 260Nm (193 lb-ft).

June 24, 2014

Vauxhall Goes To Rio With Astra Copacabana

Just like the MINI Paceman GoalCooper, Vauxhall has just unveiled the new Astra Copacabana that celebrates this year’s FIFA World Cup. It has the Brazilian flag on its roof, while palm trees, dancing lines and silhouette of football players all along its doors.

The vehicle is based on Astra GTC and under its bonnet has the 1.6 Turbo litre engine, which offers more drama due to the capability of 200 horsepower (147 kW). The car needs only 2.6 seconds to cover the accelerations sprint from 0 to 60mph.

Inside, the interior sports unique upholstered from genuine Rio turf seats. In fact, the coupe is an example of craftsmanship: Vauxhall’s interior designers successfully processed original grass from the famous Maracanã Stadium and put it inside. What is more, every car comes with a certificate that proves the authenticity of the sacred greenery.

The footwells has also received unique treatment. They were filled with finest sand from the Copacabana beach. In addition, each special edition comes with a handy pair of flip-flops in the glove compartment.

The car will be offered in a choice of Samba or Vuvuzela tones, and will be equipped with a beverage vending machine that mixes up ice-cold Caipirinhas during the drive (alcohol-free of course). Vauxhall Astra Copacabana is currently on sale.

Source: Vauxhall

April 1, 2014

Tag: Astra

Style

Drivetrain System

Chassis

Connectivity

KARL and its offerings

The Latest Opel ECOTECH engine is a pleasure to the ears and for the purse

Lightweight and efficiency. ECOTECH offers both.

Design