Test Drive: The New Opel Astra

The Astra was launched in April and I recently took the 1.4T Enjoy manual out for a spin.

The Enjoy is the middle of the new Astra range with eight models – ranging from the 1.0T Essentia, through the 1.4 options to the top of this range, the 1.6T Plus – and is a dream to drive.

The first thing to take note of is the feeling of endless space in the cabin.

The dashboard has been engineered to take minimal space so it does not intrude into the driving space.

Dries de Bruin, sales manager at Peter James Motors, comments that the new Opel Astra has a lot more to offer than its predecessor and is the European Car of the Year.

This model has a number of firsts – some for the Opel, others first-in-class including ergonomic AGR seats which see the Astra offering premium class offerings.

It is also up to 200kg lighter than its predecessor which ensures better fuel consumption.

Added to this, next generation ECOTEC engines, and the automatic stop/start function which shuts down the engine when stopped, help cut fuel bills and emissions.

Depending on the model chosen, fuel consumption during combined driving is said to be between 4.4l and 6.1l per 100km.

This drops to between 3.9l and 5l per 100km during extra-urban driving.

For a non-petrolhead, the Opel Eye (a camera on the windscreen) is probably the most impressive offering.

This camera-based safety system includes intelligent features such as active lane keep assist with steering-wheel pushback; traffic sign assist; following distance indicator; and forward collision alert with automatic emergency braking.

The forward collision alert gives you an audible and visual signal if you approach slower vehicles too fast from behind.

To avoid rear-end collisions, up to speeds of 60km/h the system will automatically start breaking itself.

The camera also alerts you to speed limits (as read on the road or road signs) and indicates when you have exceeded these, and the lane keep assist prevents you from inadvertently drifting out of your lane.

The Astra also comes standard with hill start assist, six airbags and electronic stability progam plus, as well as cruise control with speed limiter.

If you elect the 1.6T Plus you’ll enjoy the first-in-class IntelliLux LED Matrix headlights which offer high-beam visibility without disturbing other drivers for safer, stress-free driving at night.

The lights contain 16 separate LED elements which react to other vehicles by cutting out single LEDs.

Cornering lights further enhance safety and country lights automatically adjust for better visibility on dark roads, while town lights perfectly compliment better lit areas.

The Sport comes with lock control, remote entry, passive entry with keyless engine start as well as electronic climate control, hands free parking and a rear view camera.

Dries comments that Opel is passionate about after sales service and care and says: “Opel is on a massive drive to ensure that customer know once you buy an Opel you are in caring hands.”

Opel Complete Care covers all routine maintenance, regular servicing and roadside emergencies.

It also includes the new vehicle warranty for five years or 120 000km for towing service or technical assistance; and courtesy or alternate transport.

Opel guarantees that when having your car serviced only genuine parts will be used and all services and approved body repairs will be conducted by trained technicians.

While the Opel may not technically be in the luxury class, based on the hour I spent behind the wheel of this mid-priced car, the luxury and sheer driving pleasure far surpasses the price tag.

The Opel Astra will definitely be on my list to consider for my next vehicle purchase.