Monday 27 September 2010

OPEL ASTRA GTC REVEALS POWER




Opel will release the most powerful Astra ever made at the 2010 Paris Motor Show this week. The new Astra GTC is powered by a new 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine with direct injection and 213kW on tap. Drive is provided by the front wheels which are connected to a limited slip differential.


One of the more interesting things about the GTC is that soon after the old GM’s bankruptcy two years ago, the company closed shop with its OPC high-performance division. But judging from the fact that a new Insignia OPC struts its stuff around Europe, it is still possible that an even more powerful Astra OPC will be made. Possible, but not probable.

Have a look at the interior. Surely you agree it looks like one of the best in its class, if not the best. Chrome, leather and other highlights, as well as the red colours bring out a fiery interior. I hope it’s kept as is for the production model, or at least be offered as an option.

The big question then: can we expect the GTC on SA shores in 2011? I say we can, at prices to rival its most direct competitors, including the Renault Megane RS and Volkswagen Scirocco R.

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