The boss is back
(again)! The return of the Opel Astra
OPC to South African market signals the seriousness of GM SA about its
European brand. The car is the most powerful and hence, exciting in its class,
thanks to a new package that includes a 2.0-litre
turbo engine.
Force-fed to the front wheels is the 2.0-litre motor that makes 206kW
at 5500rpm and 400Nm of torque
between 2450rpm and 5000rpm through direct injection. That’s quite a long way
from the “normal” 184kW delivered by
rivals such as the Renault Megane RS
and Ford Focus ST, and further still
from the highly popular 155kW Volkswagen
GTI. Engaging the engine is a
6-speed manual gearbox with one of the most stylish gear levers in the
business.
Opel says the Astra OPC will haul from 0 – 100km/h in just 6 seconds, and stop accelerating at 250km/h. According to the company, “key elements that contribute to the excellent vehicle dynamics are high
performance struts (HiPerStruts) on
the front suspension; the mechatronic FlexRide
chassis system; a mechanical plate type” limited slip differential, and the Brembo brakes.”
Another class-leading feature is the standard fitment of 20-inch alloy wheels, paired with 245/35 R20 tyres. There’s a multi-plate
limited slip differential (LSD) that is said to minimise wheelspin on take-off
or under severe cornering. When we drove the previous-generation Astra OPC we
noted that it would even torque-steer at 120km/h, something unusual for any
car.
That this is a high-performance
hatch does not mean it should be limited as far as comfort features are
concerned. So they have included things like climate control, power windows,
leather interior, sports seats, rain sensors, cruise control, an electronic
parking brake and a sound system with a USB
port and Bluetooth connectivity, as
well as 7 speakers, in case you get
tired of the whooshing engine note.
The new Opel Astra OPC is now available from your nearest
Opel dealership with a 5 year/120 000 km
warranty with roadside assistance. Anti-corrosion warranty is valid for 5
years/unlimited km. Recommended service intervals are 12 months/15 000 km or as
indicated by on-board monitor. A 5
year/90 000 km Service Plan is included in the price.
Opel Astra OPC Pricing
Six-speed manual (R435 000)
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