General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has introduced a number of styling and specification changes to the Opel Astra Hatch range. The changes include revisions to the exterior styling, interior trim and technical specification as well as a marginal reduction in price.

“With the introduction of the Opel Astra for the 2013 model year we have adopted a number of external, and internal styling changes that refresh the inherent continental styling appeal of the Astra,” says Malcolm Gauld, GM South Africa’s Vice President Vehicles Sales Service and Marketing.

??Opel Astra Hatch – Specifications and Features

??Engine Capability

Four models are available in the Opel Astra Hatch range including the Astra 1.6 Essentia, the Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus, the Astra 1.4T Enjoy and the Astra 1.6T Sport. The flagship Astra 1.6T Sport is powered by a 1.6-litre turbo engine that produces 132kW and 230Nm of torque. Acceleration to 100km/h will take 8.5 seconds before reaching a top speed of 221km/h using a 6-speed manual transmission. Combined fuel economy for this model is 6.8-litres/100km.

Exterior and Interior Styling Features

The Opel Astra Hatch range now features a revised grille and a redesigned front bumper with a more pronounced lower grille section. The fog lamps and indicators have also been revised. The rear-end sees the addition of chrome detailing, a revised rear bumper design and new treatment for the license plate holder. The alloy rims have also been redesigned across the range and the interior benefits from the introduction of new contemporary trim materials and mouldings.

??Standard Features

The Opel Astra 1.6 Essentia comes with heated power mirrors in body colour, Daytime Running Lights (DRLs), Power front windows, remote power door locks, Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD), Electronic Stability Programme (ESP), two cup holders, open storage space, front and side airbags, pedal release system and 17-inch alloy wheels.

Standard features for the Opel Astra 1.4T Essentia Plus are as per the 1.6 Essentia but adds a 1.4-litre turbo engine, rear electric windows, cruise control and side curtain airbags. The Opel Astra 1.4T Enjoy includes front fog lamps, Radio CD with graphic information display, USB and Bluetooth connectivity, leather steering wheel, rain sensing wipers, anti-dazzle rear view mirror, auto headlight control and seat pockets on the back of the front seats.

The 1.6T Sport comes standard with a sports chassis, premium leather trim, translucent instrument accent lighting, dual-zone electronic climate control, two cup holders, covered storage and an adjustable front armrest. Other features include an electronic parking brake, Hill Start Assist, Rear Park Assist, On-board computer, 12V power outlet in the rear console and 18-inch alloy wheels.

??Opel Astra Hatch – Price

The Opel Astra is covered by a 5-year/120 000km warranty with Roadside assistance for the warranty period. A 5-year/90 000km Service Plan is also included in the price.