Opel Astra – Automobiles Review

Irmscher Opel Astra Program is Ready for Launch

Irmscher Opel Astrain Grey - Side View Irmscher is one of the tuning companies, which is hard to see very often. The first reason for this is that they are working only with Opel (Vauxhall) vehicles. The second: they are doing this for 47 years now, and this means that they are really good in it! Now, the modification specialists are absolutely ready with the launch of their new program for the latest Opel Astra.

Visually Better Astra

Irmscher improved the visual stance of the car with some simple changes that prove to be very effective. The biggest change is probably the grille. The original one was substituted with the classic Irmscher radiator grille that gives the Astra even more dynamic appearance for its front. Depending on customer’s wish the radiator grille can be made from stainless steel or carbon fiber.

The more athletic stance has been further reinforced with the lowering, which in this case is 30mm. This ensures maximum traction especially when it comes to curves. The lower stance is also supported by the new wheel. Irmscher is offering a wide variety of wheel designs, but the most exclusive ones are 19-inch of HighStar or Aerostar variety and are finished in diamond-polished black. 16-inch and 17-inch versions are also available.

Irmscher Opel Astra in White - Side View

At last, the design of the Astra is highlighted by the foil strips added to accentuate vehicle’s contours. The strips set is available in different colors.

More Power?

A power output increase is also available for both diesel and gasoline variants. The boost is actually currently being tested and will be introduced shortly. The performance gains are expected to be of up to 30 hp.

Source: Irmscher

October 26, 2015

Opel Astra TCR Finally Breaks Cover

Opel Astra TCR Front View Opel Astra TCR has gone official and is now revealed via several images that show its exuberance. The photos were made at the international TCR (Touring Car Racing) presentation at the circuit Jules Tacheny in Mettet, Belgium. And this is also where they have shown the car for the first time in front of public.

Astra TCR is a contemporary sports car that features unique combination of modern racing technology and advanced safety features. Opel has created it to give the opportunity to those who want to compete in short and long distance races like our famous 24-hours of Nürburgring.

Offered in a five-door variant, this Astra is powered by a potent two-liter turbocharged engine. It produces 330 hp (178 kW) and maximum torque of 420 Nm (310 lb-ft). Both numbers were determined by the “Balance of Performance” concept and they also ensurie that vehicle has enough propulsion for its curb weight of 1,200 kilograms. The powerplant is connected to a sequential, six-speed racing transmission with the paddle shift located on the steering wheel.

Opel Astra TCR Rear view

Deceleration happens with the assistance of the 378 mm brake discs and 6-piston brake calipers at the front along with 265 mm brake discs and 2-piston brake calipers at the back. And the best part is that the driver can modulate the braking balance from the cockpit.

The chassis is of course entirely adjustable because it features contemporary damper technology. Aerodynamics is efficient and includes adjustable front splitter and rear spoiler.

But why is the appearance of the Astra TCR so important? Because it will allow teams to join different competitions worldwide with the same car. For instance such are the German TCR series (ADAC TCR Germany), the European championship as well as the national and continental championships along with the global TCR International Series.

2015 Opel Astra TCR has a starting price of €95,000. A limited amount of it will be delivered to selected customer teams from the beginning of next year.

Source: Opel

October 15, 2015

Opel Teases Astra TCR With Couple of Sketches

Opel Astra TCR Front View Sketch Opel Astra TCR has just been teased with couple of sketches, which give nothing else but additional glimpse of the future customer racing sports car. The new vehicle is going to make an official debut in Belgium in two weeks, on October 15. Opel is promising that this will be one of their best models ever and will offer to its customers outstanding racing characteristics.

In addition, the company also stated that the development of the new Astra TCR is going according to plan. The hugely successful Touring Car Racing Series, and in particular this car, is developed by Opel Motorsportin conjunction with long-standing technology partner Kissling.

The vehicle you see on the sketches will be powered by a two-liter turbocharged engine, which produces 330 hp (243 kW). The company also revealed that it will include some technical highlights, but decided to keep the details in secret.

Opel Astra TCR Rear View Sketch

In two weeks, when it will be revealed, Astra TCR will aim to continue the long tradition of customer racing. All in all, the car is a combination of high performance and spectacular technology.

And if you are keen to enter the TCR Series, then you should know the following: the 2015 season will offer you the perfect playing field if you are a professional customer team. In addition, with the TCR car you can also race in national and continental championships along with the global TCR International Series. Furthermore, a TCR class will be introduced for the ADAC 24h race on the legendary Nürburgring. This means that the possibilities for the Opel Astra TCR will be additionally increased.

Are you excited?

Source: Opel

October 2, 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

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

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

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

Opel Astra H OPC Nurburgring by WRAPworks

WRAPworks has chosen the compact Opel in order to make of it an exquisite creation which will proudly carry the name “Nurburgring Edition”. The foil colors that have bee used in this project are titan-metallic mat as well as high-gloss red and they have been carefully chosen to match the factory logo.

However, in order to foil every tiny detail, the car has been largely disassembled into its component parts. In addition, there was especially developed a high-gloss digital printing in carbon style for the engine hood in order to accentuate the logo.

What is ore, this Astra is equipped with an exhaust system by Remus with centered tailpipe which is accentuated by means of the red line ending on it. To preserve the relation to the original Nurburg Edition, the series checks have been left on the bonnet, top and tailgate, at least partially.

Next, the Astra H OPC is lowered by means of EIBACH-30/30 springs and includes an OPC 1 brake cooling and yellow fog lights, an adjustable Whiteline-rear axle-stabilizer and a Pipercross air filter, Courtenay PU motor bearing and the bronze bushings for the guide pins of the ATE-break calipers at the front axle, Nitro rims by Motec in size 8×18 ET30 and Hankook Ventus V12 tyres in size 225/40ZR18. Finally the rear wiper was removed and Rally-4-safety belts by SCHROTH were installed inside.

Source: Miranda Media

April 24, 2013

Irmscher Opel Astra GTC Sport 45 Special Edition To Debut In Geneva

Irmscher Opel Astra GTC Sport 45 Special Edition is going to be unveiled at the 2013 Geneva Motor Show was just announced by the tuning company. Only 45 units of this special vehicle will be made in order to celebrate the 45th birthday of Irmscher in 2013.

The customization here was created with the aim to enhance the distinctively sporty design of the Opel Astra GTC. Under the hood of the latter works an improved Astra 1.6 Turbo engine, which develops 200 hp (147 kW).

With a lowering of 30 mm with progressive spring rate, in conjunction with 20-inch alloy wheels this Opel is full of power on the road and in addition in grabs the attention of the viewers immediately.

Balance in proportions is also an aim here and is an attribute which Irmscher clearly emphasizes with its design ideas and their development. Seen from the front, the radiator grille with Irmscher Carbon bar, the harmoniously integrated front spoiler lip and the track width of 20-inch wheels in Evo Star design perfectly contribute to a new more dramatical visual stance.

Observed from the rear, one can see that the sporty ambitions are also evident there. In fact, the striking roof spoiler, the diffuser insert and the left and right ellipsoidal tailpipes contribute to more agile and dynamic look. In addition, at the tail one can also notice the “Sport 45” signature.

On the other hand the interior of the car includes original Irmscher seats, door panels and center armrest, which were trimmed with fine leather and correspond to the exterior color with a yellow stitching. Moreover, the tuning company refined the interior further by adding door pins and pedals in aluminum. At last, the floor mats include Irmscher logo and the “Sport 45” signature.

Source: Irmscher

February 19, 2013

Opel Adam Cup to Race Along with Opel Astra Cup

The famous Opel brand is going to return to the motor racing with the new Opel Adam Cup and new Opel Astra OPC. The goal of the company is to make a new model which is both technically sophisticated and reasonably priced, and at the same time which provides a good platform for young ambitious drivers to continuously develop their talent.

The first step towards this goal is the rally cup version of the new Opel ADAM, which has been closely specified to FIA R2 standards. Moreover, it will be utilized in the 2013 season. As part of the “ADAC Rally Masters” race series these customer cars will compete in a branded cup – the ADAC Opel Rally Cup.

Secondly, the new Ople Astra OPC Cup will be part of the VLN endurance championships. It is being made available from the 2013 season onwards as a racing version for customer sports. Important to mention is that both cup cars are engineered to match the “VLN Endurance Championship” standards which are the most popular grass roots racing series in Europe.

The cars will also take part in a brand trophy in their own class. The highlight of the season however is the 24-hour race on the Nuerburgring race track.

Furthermore, an especially attractive benefits package is being offered for private competitors. It is not limited to top performance and affordable cutting edge racing technology. What is more, the customers benefit from competitively priced spare parts as well as technical and organisational support on and off the race track.

Source: Opel

November 22, 2012

Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo now generates 195 horsepower

Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo five-door Hatch and Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo Sports Tourer are the new two high performance diesels from the brand. Both are generating 195 horsepower (143 kW) and have 400 Nm (295 lb-ft) of torque.

Both Vauxhalls are the most powerful cars in their class: they offer blistering performance, high levels of practicality and impressive frugality. Their top speed reaches 135mph and can achieve 0-60mph in less than eight seconds.

Despite the boost in performance, they have excellent economy as well: low CO2 emissions of 134g/km and a combined efficiency of 55.4mpg. The great fuel economy is further enhanced by the Start/Stop technology included in the models.

In fact, the twin turbo technology is rare in this class. The Astra uses a sequential turbocharging system, with the smaller turbo accelerating quickly at lower speeds to eliminate ‘lag’, providing 320Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque from 1,250rpm.

Furthermore, in the mid-range of rpm, both turbochargers operate together, with the larger turbocharger pre-compressing the intake air, before it is fully compressed in the smaller one. A continuous control over the bypass valve is happening, in order to pass on part of the exhaust gases to the larger turbo. The effect of all this is that the driver still enjoys smooth acceleration.

In addition, some stylish changes have been made as well. The new Astra now has more aggressive look thanks to the revised front grille, new front indicators and fog lamps, and refreshed rear-panel styling.

Other unique features are the fresh 18” alloy wheels, twin rear exhausts, exterior styling pack and alloy sports pedals.

The Vauxhall Astra BiTurbo five-door Hatch has a starting price of £24,095 and the Sports Tourer – £25,110.

Source: Vauxhall

August 1, 2012

Tag: Opel Astra

Visually Better Astra

More Power?

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.