Jump to content

New Opel Astra-J

Cbx750p

By Cbx750p,
in Conti Talk

 Share

Recommended Posts

Cbx750p

Cbx750p

1st Gear
(edited)

Take a look at the all new Astra-J

 

SP32-20060616-110307.jpg

Picture linked from http://www.autospies.com/images/uploads/la...0616-110307.jpg

 

Quote : ( http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/news/autoexpr...atches_out.html

 

New Astra hatches out

Mission impossible is about to begin for Vauxhall! The firm's designers are already well on the way to creating the next-generation Astra, which will have one key objective - to beat Ford's Focus.

By Chris Thorp 30th May 2006

 

In this week's mag Auto Express can exclusively reveal pictures, which show the all-new compact family hatch that will challenge its arch rival with a fresh face and the latest technology. The radical approach which saw the current Astra given a more distinctive shape hasn't been forgotten. However, the man behind the styling has been replaced. Design expert Martin Smith oversaw the car's development before switching to Ford in July 2004, and has been superseded by Bryan Nesbitt.

 

Having already signed off the Antara SUV, the stylist is keen to make a mark in other sectors. Vauxhall's new hatch shares its front-end looks with the 4x4, while retaining the sleek appearance of the current Astra.

 

Under the skin, the newcomer is based on General Motors' latest platform, codenamed Delta. Auto Express's spies have already caught a top-secret test mule out developing underpinnings for several fresh models. Despite the Vectra body, the basic architecture will be used on the all-new Astra. This model will be front-wheel drive, and feature Vauxhall's latest chassis technology.

 

While the existing hatch is dynamically competent, its successor will be a serious driver's car. Most of the development work will be carried out by Opel in Germany, but Vauxhall will then add some refinements to make UK-spec cars ready for Britain's roads.

 

Engines will be carried over from the current Astra, with a few additions. Mid-spec models will inherit the 1.7-litre turbo petrol unit from the all-new Corsa VXR, while work is underway on a new compact diesel. Maximising efficiency is crucial, and General Motors is also rumoured to be developing a motor similar to Volkswagen's TSI unit, which uses both a turbo and supercharger.

 

What's more, the Astra could be one of the first mainstream cars in its class to feature hybrid power. General Motors has been working with Mercedes and BMW to develop a new hi-tech, two-mode, CVT gearbox intended specifically for models running both petrol and electric motors.

 

As with the current car, the all-new Astra will get a firebreathing VXR-badged flagship. Its unique selling point is its high power output, so it is likely to better the forthcoming 250bhp Mazda 3 MPS, and offer even faster acceleration. While the VXR will be available with only three doors, five-door, coup

Edited by Cbx750p
↡ Advertisement
Link to post
Share on other sites
Pyramid_sg

Pyramid_sg

Clutched

Opel almost went bankrupt under GM so I think they are waiting for the new partners Magna to take over and once things settle, they will probably start selling the new Astra J. Nice car.

Link to post
Share on other sites
Silver_blade

Silver_blade

Turbocharged
(edited)

Finally new Astra was shown to the public! Imo it might help Opel to get rid off financial troubles

It was GM that was in financial problem...not Opel. In any case, the major stake holder is Magna now.

 

Astra J looks more conservative...but I think it should attract more buyer b'cos of that. Pricing is important too.

Edited by Silver_blade
↡ Advertisement
Link to post
Share on other sites

Create an account or sign in to comment

You need to be a member in order to leave a comment

Create an account

Sign up for a new account in our community. It's easy!

Register a new account

Sign in

Already have an account? Sign in here.

Sign In Now
 Share
Go to topic listing
×
×
  • Create New...