New Opel Astra: compact, the "first class".

Here are the novelties of the new Opel Astra:

· Technology: Innovations and novel technologies in the segment C

· Energizing: the sculptural design and dynamic driving experience promises exciting

· Agile: the new mechatronic chassis increases the level of comfort and maneuverability

The merger of German engineering excellence, flowing design with sculptural lines and innovative technology available, enabling the new Opel Astra to the philosophy that made the Insignia's best-selling midsize sedan in Europe a few weeks after it launched. The new compact Opel debut next September 17th IAA in Frankfurt as a dynamic 5-door with minute details and that, with the most advanced technology Opel, will give away exciting driving experience.

The new generation Astra adds many devices for the comfort and safety features in the C segment, the same that Insignia has already introduced first in its class. Will in fact available technologies such as the new mechatronic chassis, the result of the interaction between mechanics, electronics and computing, a lighting system that can be defined with good reason the most modern in the industry, a front camera can recognize traffic signals and the most advanced science of applied ergonomics posture of the seats. As with Insignia, the new Astra may have an adaptive suspension system FlexRide, a rarity in this segment, which continuously adapt the driving style and speed with which we deal with curves, while taking into account the preferences of those who are behind behind the wheel - who can choose between three dynamic modes: Standard, Sport and Tour

With a length of 4,420 mm, the new Astra offers more space and comfort for front and rear passengers, thanks to a wheelbase of 71 mm. The slim lines and sleek bodywork, designed according to the maximum efficiency, have been designed through collaboration between the team of designers and engineers in aerodynamics, who tested the car in a wind tunnel for 600 hours.

The elegant proportions give the Astra a separate line, projected forward, the windshield decidedly tilted, which continues in a truncated rear roof line, makes it even more interesting than the traditional cutting of the tailgate.

The interior uses the same elements of the exterior design, enhancing the overall harmony. A special effort was also intended to add variety and versatile solutions for storing objects.

Developed in Rüsselsheim, Germany, the Opel Astra also has an excellent frame, completely new. The longer wheelbase combines with the major roadways and the geometry of the new rear axle in order to further improve agility and stability without sacrificing comfort.

Additional innovative features introduced in the new C-segment Astra are:

• A new generation of bi-xenon headlamps known as Advanced Forward Lighting (AFL +) changing intensity and also moving constantly favoring the driving style and road conditions and weather prevailing through nine different lighting functions.
• The camera system with front camera Opel Eye, able to recognize traffic signs and warn the driver when the car leaves its lane unintentionally from the map.
• Ergonomic front seats, designed for optimum support and, of course, to provide even more security.

The engine range is focused on efficient and high-performance 8 Euro 5 engines. All, except the entry level engine, are coupled to a manual six-speed transmission. Will debut a new compact automatic with Active Select. For Italy will be selected among the 8 available later adapted the engines to the market.

The diesel engine range includes four CDTI common-rail engines, multiple injection, 1.3 to 2.0 liters with power ranging from 70 kW/95 hp to 118 kW/160 hp. All are equipped with particle filters F.AP. Among the engines, you can not miss ecoFLEX version with fuel consumption and emissions of CO ₂ particularly low.

The four petrol engines from 1.4 liters and 1.6 can count on a power range from 74 kW/100 hp to 132 kW/180 hp. A new, Turbos downsized from 103 kW/140 hp 1.4 replaces the current 1.8 sucked. Owing to its exceptional technical features of this range of engines, the 1.4 Turbo develops 14% more torque while maintaining fuel consumption at a level substantially lower.

Building on its great tradition in the compact segment in which Opel has entered in 1936 with Olympia Kadett, Opel Astra is one of the top three best-selling compact cars in Europe by far - in a segment that accounts for 27% of the market overall the car. Astra sales are related to one third of all orders Opel / Vauxhall, amounting to an average volume of about 500,000 units per year.