Opel Astra

You know when it comes to C segment hatchbacks I’m somewhat of a Ford fan, so I tend to get caught up in the aura that surrounds the Focus. It is a remarkable car, don’t get me wrong. The problem is that it puts metaphorical blinkers on me, and I fail to see what the competition has to offer.

Upon reflection however I’m surprised that I’ve forgotten about the Opel Astra. When I was eighteen I went through that phase of wanting to glue massive spoilers and bumpers to my first car, and so I idolised the Astra. So much so that when my father told me to give him a list of cars I’d like, the Astra was the first name down.

I’d heard the numerous tales of the Super Boss Kadett from the 1980’s, of which the Astra is a direct descendent. It had cult status that in the modern day can only be compared to that of the Subaru Impreza.

So it has decent pedigree. And in the two weeks I spent behind the wheel of the new Astra, I felt some of that magic that enchanted me as an eighteen year old.

In its modern guise the Astra is much more refined and grown up when compared to the 80’s Kadett, or any model since for that matter. The edges have been rounded, the harsh lines smoothed, resulting in a nice looking car. Given its understated nature it surprised me as to how striking it is in the flesh. Subtle glances from all angles give way to a vehicle I’d be chuffed to have in my drive.

The interior continues the trend set by its shell. The finicky buttons and mismatch colour scheme from the old model gives way to a more integrated and ergonomically pleasing layout. I like a car that cocoons and envelopes the driver, something the Astra achieves at just the right level so as to not make you feel claustrophobic. Better still the quality of materials is vastly improved with hard touch surfaces being few and far between. It’s also bigger than the outgoing model, and in fact the longest car in class, which translates into a more spacious cabin.

Further emphasising its now refined character, the Astra has various bits of modern technology available on the options list, most notably the active headlights. I’ve experienced the technology on from more executive brands like BMW, however the speed and agility with which the Astra’s headlights peer around upcoming corners is unmatched by anything I’ve driven.

Under the bonnet you’re afforded various options. On test I enjoyed the company of both the 1.4 and 1.6 litre turbo charged motors. This is in following a world trend of replacing big engines with smaller ones that have a bit of blow, in order to keep the tree huggers happy. The results are evident however, as the 1.4 produces the same power as the outgoing 1.8 however pumps far less carbon dioxides into the atmosphere.

Power delivery from both motors is as smooth as you’d like, with little to mention about dreaded turbo lag. Both peak power and torque are available at lower revs that before, meaning the vehicle is much easier to drive in day to day conditions. You don’t need to rev the nuts off the thing to get it moving.

All models are available with a new 6 speed manual gearbox, which in my opinion is great. The action is short and smooth, but what really sets it apart is the gear ratios. Sixth gear (and to some extent fifth) is designed for motorway cruising, not for overtaking or going up hills. Finally some sense from a manufacturer. For the slight “inconvenience” of changing down a cog, you get better fuel consumption and lower carbon emissions.

From a ride and handling point the Astra performs well enough. It doesn’t use the fancy independent rear suspension setups seen in the VW Golf or Ford Focus, so don’t expect anything ground breaking. But a nicely weighted, quick ratio electric power steering system does a commendable job of working with what’s on offer to provide accurate turn in and decent feedback. The suspension is compliant and provides a soothing ride, but on the flip side doesn’t flop about in the bends.

This Astra has thrown a spanner in my works. I’m now torn between it and the Focus. The Astra actually has a better range of engines, a more impressive overall appearance and reminds me of the desires I felt when I was young(er). But that Focus is a proper driver’s car. It’s a tough one. 

Miles Downard