KUALA LUMPUR: Stellantis-owned Opel just yanked the silks of its new, sixth-generation Astra, based on the new EMP2 platform. Also, sold as the Vauxhall Astra in the UK, the new car features styling updates inside and out and the plug-in hybrid powertrain for the first time. The German automaker kickstarts the next chapter of its automotive journey with the all-new Astra.

On the exterior, the new car looks much more modern with sheer, taut surfaces, and the new front fascia. It gets matrix LED headlights linked through a gloss black trim and small fog lights integrated into the revised bumper. Elevating the car’s sporty stance are extra creases on the doors and wheels. The notable rear highlights include an aggressive bumper. split tail lights, roof spoiler, and large badges. 

In terms of dimensions, the 2022 Open Astra is 4374 mm long, 1860 mm wide, 1,470 mm tall with a wheelbase of 2765 mm. Compared to the predecessor, it is wider and has more wheelbase.

Inside the cabin, the all-new Astra features a minimalistic design approach with two 10-inch displays, one for the digital instrument cluster and one for the infotainment system. Other interior highlights are Nappa leather seats, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, head-up display, and cruise control with stop and go. As for safety, the new Opel Astra packs all the latest automated driver assistance systems mated with multiple cameras and radar sensors. 

Opel offers the new-generation Astra with different powertrains - 

• A 1.2-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol with two different states of tunes generating 108 hp and 128 hp, respectively
• A turbocharged four-cylinder diesel unit with 128 hp
• A hybrid mill combining a 1.6-litre turbo four-pot gasoline mill and an electric motor producing a combined output of 178 hp 
• A flagship PHEV powertrain carrying the same e-motor with a differently tuned 1.6-litre mill for 222 hp

For transmission, a six-speed gearbox is standard while an eight-speed automatic comes as optional.

“The all-new Astra – a new Blitz is born! With sensational design and class-leading technology. Electrified and highly efficient for the lowest possible emissions; heading into a new era. The Astra is executed with the utmost precision down to the smallest detail. We are confident that the next generation Astra has all it takes to become another bestseller and attract many new customers to the brand”, said Opel CEO, Michael Lohscheller.

The new Opel Astra will go on sale in the European market in early 2022.

Also read: Opel teases Manta-e electric car, plans to go all-electric by 2028