2007 Opel Astra facelift – New 180Hp 1.6 Turbo

European Turbo-engine frenzy consumers will surely get a kick out of Opel’s 2007 Astra as it receives a new 180Hp 1.6T motor (derived from the Meriva OPC). This engine replaces the former 175Hp 2.0 Turbo is Opel’s answer to VW Group’s new 1.4 TSI (available in 140 & 170Hp versions). In the near future it will also find it’s way into other models such as the Zafira MPV, Corsa OPC (with 200Hp) and the Vectra.

Back to the Astra, the 1.6T needs 8,2 sec for the 0 to 100 km/h (62 mph) sprint and reaches a top speed of 223 km/h (139 mph). It comes equipped with a six-speed transmission and compared with the 175Hp 2.0T, total consumption is reduced by more than 13 percent to 7.7 liters per 100 km.

Apart from the 1.6T, the 2007 Astra range is expanded with a new 115Hp 1.6 gasoline engine and two 1.7 CDTI common-rail turbo-diesel units (with 110 and 125 Hp). As for aesthetic changes they are limited. The 5door and station wagon variants have a broader chrome crossbar with integrated Opel logo and 3-D design tail lights while the GTC now boasts a honeycomb grille. The interior features additional chrome rings around the AC and radio controls, as well as new decorative trim on the instrument panel and doors.

The new Astra will make its world premiere at the Bologna Motor Show (December 7-17, 2006) and it will be available throughout Europe from February 2007.