Following the introduction of Opel’s (Vauxhall in the UK) new 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine on the Astra five-door and wagon models, it is time now for the Astra GTC to get the new unit.
Replacing the 1.6 Turbo, the all-new 1.6 SIDI Turbo (Spark Ignition Direct Injection) engine develops 170 PS (168 hp) and 260 Nm (192 lb-ft) of torque, available between 1,650 and 3,200 rpm. An overboost function lifts torque to 280 Nm (206 lb-ft), which temporarily gives the vehicle an extra burst that is useful when overtaking for example.
With the new engine, that is already utilized in other models including the Cascada, Astra five-door hatchback, Astra Sports Tourer and Zafira Tourer, the Astra GTC averages 6.1 liters/100 km (38.55 mpg), while CO2 emissions are rated at 143 g/km – values for the model with six-speed manual transmission and Start/Stop technology. Compared to the 1.6-liter Turbo predecessor, the new engine boasts a 15 percent reduction in fuel consumption.
The Astra GTC 1.6 SIDI Turbo accelerates from zero to 100 km/h in 8.6 seconds and sprints from 80 to 120 km/h in 9.3 seconds in fifth gear, with top speed rated at 219 km/h (136 mph).
The new Astra GTC 1.6 SIDI is available with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission that features an Active Select function to allow manual shifting. Prices start from €23,850 ($31,210) in Germany.
By Dan Mihalascu
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