Opel Astra Sedan 1.8: Super saloon that's solid as a rock
Four years after the debut of the Opel Astra five-door hatchback, a new four-door sedan model has been unveiled.
Samuel Ee
Sat, Mar 29, 2008
The Business Times
It may seem like an after-thought but thankfully, it doesn't look like one. Four years after the debut of the Opel Astra five-door hatchback, a new four-door sedan model has been unveiled.
While some booted versions of a hatch can look as graceful as a squirming tadpole, the styling of the Astra Sedan is remarkably cohesive. It has a smooth profile with a long roof that flows into a well-proportioned rear with slightly muscular haunches.
| Opel Astra Sedan 1.8 |
| Engine: 1,796cc Gearbox: 4-speed automatic transmission Max power: 140 hp @ 6,300 rpm Max torque: 175 Nm @ 3,800 rpm 0-100 kmh: 11.6 secs Top speed: 191 kmh Price: $86,888 (with COE) Distributor: Auto Eurokars, tel 6749-4333 |
Moreover, the sedan has been significantly lengthened. Its wheelbase is 2,703mm - an outstanding number for its class. This translates into good rear leg-room and even better head-room. Entry to the back seat is also excellent because of the large rear doors.
The cabin has the same Opel family look. And apart from the satin champagne finish of the centre console, a nice touch is the choice of seat colour - sporty black or plush beige. Both come in nappa leather but reflect very different personalities.
The Astra has interesting design cues too. One is a central crease line that runs from the bonnet, through the cabin on the dashboard, and out the back over the trunk and rear bumper.
As with all Astras, the driving experience is stable and confident. The car feels rock solid and the suspension soaks up all the bumps on the road. The electro-hydraulic steering feels reassuringly direct and can be made even sharper by pressing the Sport button on the centre console. This also has the effect of delaying gear changes and making the throttle more sensitive.
The downside, though, is that at higher revs, the Astra engine gets a bit loud. The 1.8-litre unit does have adequate power, however, thanks to variable valve timing for both the intake and exhaust camshafts. Another drawback is that the automatic transmission only has four speeds.
But considering that this sub-$90,000 model already has standard features such as a sophisticated ESP (electronic stability programme) and cruise control, it does place things in perspective. For its price, the Astra Sedan is certainly a well-made family car with a robust but still highly appealing design.
This article was first published in The Business Times on Mar 29, 2008.