We’ve seen prototypes of the Opel and Vauxhall Astra before, but now, for the first time, we caught them wearing production front and rear light designs instead of items from the parts bin.
Opel had suggested that the new Astra’s design would be influenced by the Monza concept, but you’ll really need a vivid imagination to make any sort of connections between the two. At best, you’ll find some vaguely familiar styling cues here and there like the shape of the grille with the winged logo.
Inside, GM’s European arm wants to go more upscale by improving quality, fit and finish, while also giving the Astra a more premium design. In previous spy shots, we caught a glimpse of the compact model’s dashboard, including the less cluttered center console that incorporates a larger screen for the infotainment system.
Much like Opel did with the rejuvenated Corsa, the next Astra is expected to ride on a refreshed version of the current model’s platform (Delta), with engineers focusing on reducing weight.
Powertrain offerings will include GM Europe’s brand-new family of engines and transmissions ranging in displacement from 1.0- to 1.5-liters with up to 165hp. To compete with Ford’s 1.0-liter EcoBoost in the Focus, Opel will give the Astra a new 113hp (115PS) 1.0-liter direct injection turbocharged three-cylinder petrol unit, borrowed from the Corsa. A hot OPC (VXR for Vauxhall and the UK) model, possibly with around 300hp, is in the cards as well.
The new Astra hatchback is due to arrive in 2015, with a station wagon and a sedan to follow later on.
Photo Credits: CarPix for CarScoops
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