The new Opel Astra GTC will make its world premier on the 15th of September at the 64th International Motor Show in Frankfurt. It will also make an appearance at the Goodwood festival of speed, happening next month.

Sporty design for new Opel Astra GTC

The exterior of the new Opel Astra GTC has been designed to emphasize “drama” by limiting the number of lines running down the side of the car. The direct relation of drama to number of lines is something that Opel will need to clarify at some point. That said, the car looks slick and sporty and is certainly pleasing to look at.

Improved handling

The front suspension architecture of the new Opel Astra GTC, which is similar to that of the Opel Insignia OPC, improves the handling performance of the car with sharper steering. All Astra GTC models will come with front suspension High Performance Strut (HiPerStrut). This improves the wheel-guidance and grip as well as reducing torque-steering and improving cornering power.

Compared to the standard 5-door Astra, the ride height of the GTC has been lowered by 15mm, the wheelbase has increased by 10mm and the tracks are also wider. This has allowed the GTC to use sport wheels that have enhanced tyre diameter and create improved stability and road stance.

Engine Choice

At launch the car will be available with a choice of 3 petrol and 1 diesel engine options. The engine options include a 2.0 CDTI common-trail turbo diesel which produces 121 kW/165 hp and is fitted to a 6-speed manual transmission, which completes 0-100km/h in 8.9 seconds. Start/Stop technology comes as standard and results in a combined fuel economy of just 4.9 litres/100km.

The two 1.4 litre turbo-compressed petrol options produce 99 kW/120 hp and 103 kW/140 hp, both with a 6-speed manual transmission. Their fuel economy stats clock in at 5.9 litres/100km. The top of the line petrol engine is the 1.6 litre turbo which produces 132 kW/180 hp, also with a 6-speed transmission and a top speed of 220km/h.