The Opel Astra is a well-known nameplate in Europe and one of the chief rivals of the ever-popular VW Golf. As such, Stellantis is keeping it up-to-date with the addition of a mild-hybrid powertrain, expanding the compact model’s lineup alongside the existing gasoline, plug-in hybrid, and fully electric options.
Both the hatchback and estate (Sports Tourer) bodystyles of the Astra feature the the widely-used turbocharged 1.2-liter engine, recently enhanced with a 48-volt system. According to the company, the addition of mild-hybrid technology reduces CO2 emissions and fuel consumption by 14 percent compared to the non-electrified 1.2 Turbo with the eight-speed automatic transmission.
The combustion engine produces 134 hp (100 kW / 136 PS) and 230 Nm (170 lb-ft) of torque, while the electric motor that is integrated into the six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission is good for 28 hp (21 kW / 29 PS) and 55 Nm (40.6 lb-ft) of torque. During braking, the e-motor recharges the small 48V lithium-ion battery pack which is mounted under the left front seat so that it doesn’t compromise boot space.
More: Opel/Vauxhall Astra GSe Is An Electrified Warm Hatch And Estate With 222 HP
Opel claims that the mild-hybrid system is strong enough for the Astra to run in purely electric mode for up to 50 percent of the time in urban areas. As a result, the CO2 emissions in the WLTP mixed cycle stand at 113g/100km for the hatchback and 115g/100km for the Sports Tourer. Furthermore, the fuel consumption figures have been reduced to 5 lt/100 km (47 mpg) and 5.1 lt/100 km (46 mpg) respectively.
In terms of performance, the Opel Astra achieves the 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) sprint in 9 seconds, boasting a top speed of 210 km/h (130 mph).
Visually, the Astra Hybrid maintains the aesthetic of the rest of the lineup, with the exception of a discreet emblem on the tailgate. Inside, the 10-inch digital instrument cluster features new graphics displaying the energy flow, with numbers turning blue when the combustion engine is inactive.
The new Opel Astra Hybrid is now available for order across Europe, with prices starting at €36,430 ($39,538) in Germany. In comparison, the similarly powerful non-electrified gasoline powertrain begins at a much lower €32,660 ($35,459).
