My word, this car’s name is quite a mouthful. So is it a real OPC or just a Sport? Read on to find out…
You need to know: It’s not a real OPC (Opel Performance Centre), those models have been discontinued. It sort-of is a Sport because this range-topping Astra comes with a 147kW (200hp) 1.6L turbo-petrol four-cylinder engine which can also send up to 280Nm to the 225/40R18 front wheels.
More info: That means it’s good for a sporty 235km/h or the 100km/h sprint in 7.8 seconds (we got a brisk 7.46) but some sportiness is robbed by the six-speed automatic gearbox. It’s not exactly DSG-quick but, as auto-boxes go, is fairly obedient and well-calibrated to the turbocharged engine’s power curve.
What else? It’s a good modern compromise; agile power plant with a commuter-friendly gearbox. Its host has a pleasing shape (although freezer white does the Astra no favours) and decades of hatchback experience mean that this Opel is an accomplished, safe and versatile automobile. The boot takes 370 to 1,210L.
OPC Line means that they’ve stuck a few go-faster bits to this car, like big alloys, shiny pedals and chrome tailpipes. Opel claims 6.1L/100km from the 48L tank, perhaps at a constant 90km/h but not around town. Ride and handling also strike a good compromise between sporty dynamics and fairly comfortable damping.
Watch out for: Definitely the price. Half a million bucks is too steep for an Astra, even if it comes with all the trimmings like keyless start, six airbags, LED headlights, full stability control, touchy-feely screen with satnav, climate control and heated leather seats; among many other tasty features.
Why you want one: Oy, I’m not sure, hey. You’re a huge Opel fan or you want a powerful automatic hatch? It’s certainly distinctive with sharp lines, interesting panel creases and a funky C-pillar design. Each Astra is sold with a three-year/120,000km warranty and five-year/90,000km service plan.
FULL SPECLIST
- Engine: 1.6L i-4 turbo-petrol
- Transmission: 6-speed Automatic, FWD
- Max. Power: 147kW
- Max. Torque: 280Nm
- Avg cons.: Claimed 6.1L/100km
- 0-100km/h: 7.46 seconds (Claimed 7.8)
- Top Speed: Claimed 235km/h
- List Price: R508,000