Opel Astra 2.0 CDTI 2011

A new, more fuel efficient model has been added to the Opel Astra’s European lineup. The Astra 2.0 CDTI 160HP comes equipped the ecoFLEX package, which includes Start/Stop functionality. Already available for the Astra 1.3 CDTI, the package is offered as an optional extra for the 2.0-liter diesel hatchback and Sports Tourer models in combination with the six-speed manual transmission.

The ecoFLEX technology lowers fuel consumption and CO2 emissions, especially in city traffic, where the Astra 2.0 CDTI hatchback can save up to 0.8 liters per 100 kilometers, equal to a 13 percent reduction over the standard model without the package.

In the combined cycle, the Astra 2.0 CDTI hatch has a rating of 4.5 liters/100 km (52.26 mpg US), 0.4 liters less than the “normal” model. CO2 emissions are also down from 129 to 119 grams per kilometer. When fitted to an Astra Sports Tourer, the ecoFLEX package lowers average fuel consumption by 0.4 liters/100 km to 4.7 liters/100 km, while also reducing CO2 emissions from 134 to 124 g/km.

Other than the Start/Stop system, the package includes the CleanTech Combustion Technology for the 2.0 CDTI unit, which promises clean combustion while also reducing engine noise by means of adjusting fuel injection to the combustion process in real time. As with the 1.3-liter ecoFLEX model, the 2.0-liter version sports an active aero shutter incorporated in the front grille and refined underbody aerodynamics.

Opel also announced that all Astra model equipped with a manual-transmission will be fitted from now on with a shift indicator showing the driver the ideal moment to change gear in order to improve fuel economy.

The ecoFLEX Technology Package for the Astra 2.0 CDTI adds €300 ($425) to the standard car's price in Germany. By spring 2012, Opel wants to offer 34 car/engine combinations with the ecoFLEX technology, including all Astra diesel and petrol models with manual transmission.

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New Opel Astra GTC Sport

The production version of Opel’s stunning Astra GTC Concept from last year’s Paris Motor Show is scheduled to appear this summer with its public debut to take place at the 2011 Frankfurt motor show in September. However, thanks to Carscoop reader Javier who has a knack for finding future Opel models, we can give you a sneak peak of the production GTC. Javier discovered the picture of the completely undisguised Astra GTC on Opel’s official Facebook page earlier today.

As far as we can tell, the only visible changes over the Paris Concept are the lack of aero parts and the slightly different tail lamp design. However, the aggressive body kit and the larger alloy wheels of the concept study should make their way on the OPC version of the Astra GTC that will follow after the presentation of the standard models.

The sporty looking three-door version will be available with a similar engine lineup to the rest of the Astra models, offering buyers a variety of turbocharged gasoline and diesel units.

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2013 Opel Astra Cabrio

Opel/Vauxhall continues its portfolio expansion as the addition of a new Convertible has been confirmed today. The new Cabrio is part of the company’s EUR 11 billion investment pledge announced approximately one year ago as part of its plan for the future. It comes on the heels of successful products such as the Insignia, 2009 Car of the Year, the Astra, winner of a 2009 Golden Steering Wheel, the Meriva with its innovative and highly-acclaimed FlexDoors system, the upcoming new generation Zafira, and the revolutionary Ampera electric vehicle.
The new Convertible will be based on Opel/Vauxhall’s compact vehicle architecture which is also the basis for the current Astra, the Astra SportsTourer and the upcoming Astra GTC. It will hit the market in 2013 –the same year that Opel/Vauxhall will also launch its chic and stylish small car meeting the growing demand for vehicles in line with a young and urban lifestyle.
Subsequent to a joint agreement between management and employee representatives during the restructuring at the Opel plant in Gliwice, Poland, the decision has been made to build the Cabrio at the highly-efficient Gliwice plant alongside other Astra models.
“The new Convertible will be a great addition to our product lineup,”said Opel/Vauxhall CEO Nick Reilly. “It follows the long-standing tradition of highly emotional and legendary Opel/Vauxhall Cabrios that provided important halo effects on our brand. With its sleek and elegantdesign, our new Convertible will fully deliver on that same promise.”
Further details, such as vehicle naming, pricing and equipment, will be announced closer to the launch timing.

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Opel Sleek Zafira Tourer Concept

After we got a first glimpse of the Zafira study by means of an iPad hologram, Opel released the full details of the concept which previews the next-generation Zafira MPV. Described by Opel as a “lounge on wheels”, the design study uses the same style language as seen on the Insignia and Astra models.

The front is the most eye-catching part of the Zafira's sleek bodywork, with the headlights, LED running lights and the fog lights being united in a boomerang-shaped structure, inspired by the Ampera EV's fascia. Unlike the Meriva, the Zafira sports conventional doors and has a dynamic look due to the ascendent midline and the 20-inch rims.
The rear end is also sporty, dominated by the high-sitting taillights and the two large exhaust pipes integrated into the rear apron.
“We have transferred the idea of a relaxing lounge to a vehicle and created an automobile wellness oasis, a place to relax and enjoy. Passengers can retreat in the lounge. It is a comfortable, roomy space where you really want to be – regardless if it’s for a business trip or to relax for a long journey,” says Mark Adams, Vice President of Design at Opel.
One of the Zafira's main features is the panorama windshield, which is continued by a glass roof covering the entire length of the roof offering an airy interior. Inside, there's room for seven passengers with the concept building on Opel's Flex7 seating concept pioneered by the first Zafira. There are many available configurations, including a lounge mode that offers four spacious business-class seats.
The Zafira Tourer Concept is powered by a new version of the Opel's 1.4-liter gasoline turbo engine featuring Start/Stop technology.
We'll have more on Opel's new concept model from the Geneva motor show floors next week.

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VIDEO: Opel Touts Zafira Tourer Concept's "Lounge Ambience"

These are the first videos of Opel's new Zafira Tourer Concept, which will receive its grand premiere at next week's 2011 Geneva Salon. The first clip focuses on the relaxing "lounge atmosphere" found within the interior of the minivan, something that Opel highlighted more than anything else in the car's press release, while the second video showcases the new Flex7 seating concept. Hit the break to watch both clips for yourself.

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Opel to Launch New Astra-Based Convertible Model in 2013

Opel today revealed its plans to introduce a new convertible in 2013. The new model is part of the company's EUR11 billion investment plan which was announced last year and also includes the new Zafira and the Ampera EV. The droptop will be based on General Motor's compact vehicle architecture, which forms the basis for the current Astra hatchback, Astra SportsTourer and the upcoming Astra GTC, as well as Chevrolet's Cruze and Orlando.

Although Opel doesn't specify the name of the model, it will most likely be the next-generation Astra Convertible, currently produced as a coupe-cabriolet under the name of Astra TwinTop. The vehicle will enter production in 2013 at Opel's Gliwice plant in Poland, where other Astra models are also built.

“The new Convertible will be a great addition to our product lineup. It follows the long-standing tradition of highly emotional and legendary Opel/Vauxhall Cabrios that provided important halo effects on our brand. With its sleek and elegant design, our new Convertible will fully deliver on that same promise,” said Opel/Vauxhall CEO Nick Reilly.

It is not clear if the Astra Convertible will retain the retractable hardtop or switch to a soft top to rival the new VW Golf Cabriolet. This, along with other details, will be revealed closer to the launch date.

By Dan Mihalascu

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EDS Creates a 360HP Monster out of the Opel Astra Turbo

With the OPC version of the new Astra still in the works, German tuners are doing their best to offer Opel buyers several alternatives to quench their thirst for power. EDS, a relatively unknown tuner from Marl, Germany, has launched an impressive package for the most powerful version of the Astra with the 180HP 1.6-liter turbocharged engine.

The comprehensive engine tune includes a variety of modifications such as a new Garret GT28 turbocharger, ECU optimization, sports exhaust system, a new manifold, and other goodies that double the 1.6-liter unit's output to a whopping 360-horses and 480 Nm or 354 lb-ft of peak torque.

The tuning house also adds a Quaife differential lock, a new sports clutch kit, high performance perforated brake discs with 8 calipers and a sports suspension together with 20-inch wheels that are shod in Pirelli P Zero 235/35ZR20 tires up front and 275/30ZR20 at the back.

The exterior modifications are kept to a minimum and include new upper and lower grilles finished in black, side sills and a rear apron that houses a diffuser and the quad tail pipes.

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