ALL-NEW ASTRA

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ALL-NEW ASTRA

OVERVIEW & MARKET

Britain’s best selling UK-built car is re-born and revitalised

Launched at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, Vauxhall’s all-new Astra is poised to raise the bar for compact cars sold in the UK, with a combination of stylish design, class-leading dynamics, ultra-efficient powertrains and upscale quality.

On sale now, and in UK showrooms from December, the new Astra will uphold Vauxhall’s tradition of offering buyers levels of innovation and technology normally found in a class above, but at a price point embedded in the value sector. New Astra prices start at £15,675 for the comprehensively equipped 1.4-litre, 87PS Exclusiv model and extend to £23,695 for the luxurious 2.0CDTi 160PS Elite automatic.

With a range of eight engines and five trim levels, the new Astra will initially be available as a five-door hatchback only, built at the Ellesmere Port plant in Cheshire, home to all Vauxhall’s compact-class cars since it opened 46 years ago.

Ellesmere Port will be responsible from launch for manufacturing all Astras sold across Europe, but UK buyers will take the lion’s share, amounting to 25 per cent of total production. Small wonder, then, that even in its outgoing form, the Astra is Britain’s best-selling UK-built car and one that is almost always seen in the top three sales listings.

What’s more, the Lower Medium Sector, in which the Astra sits, is hugely significant in the UK, accounting for 17.5 per cent of all retail car sales. With style-conscious buyers choosing Vauxhall more and more, the Astra has a large part to play in this success, along with its continued appeal to buyers in the fleet market.

“As with the Insignia, the Astra is an all-new car, continuing the transformation of the Vauxhall product range which started five years ago with the launch of the Mk 5 model,” said Andy Gilson, Vauxhall’s Marketing Director. “Also like the Insignia, the Astra aims to attract a new group of buyers, those who may never have considered a Vauxhall before, but now see cars like the new Astra as offering all the style and quality of a premium product, such as an Audi A3, but at a far more affordable price point. “

Mark Adams and his team execute yet another design masterstroke

With its strong, cab-forward silhouette, steeply raked windscreen and sloping rear roofline, the Astra makes ingenious use of many of the design features found in the Insignia, but in a fresh and innovative way. Also like the Insignia, it has spent over 600 hours in the wind tunnel, benefiting performance, economy and overall refinement.

“We’re continuing with the same premium design cues as the Insignia,” said Mark Adams, Vice President of Design for GM Europe. “However, the main design themes, liked the wing-shaped signatures and the blade, needed an individual execution to avoid ‘cloning’ the model ranges.”

Upmarket design, quality materials and clever packaging define new Astra’s cabin

Echoing the flowing forms of its bodywork, the new Astra’s interior marks a major shift towards premium design and quality in the compact sector. It employs the recurring wing and blade motifs that were first introduced in the Insignia and are now used in a fresh and innovative way.

Ambient lighting enhances the feeling of quality in the cabin, with lighting points framing the gearshift surround, the area above the centre console and within the door handle recesses, depending on trim level.

Unparalleled in this sector is the Astra’s raft of clever cabin storage solutions, some of which have even been patented. Rather than focusing on the compartment size alone, the Astra’s cabin is full of bespoke storage areas designed specifically for the 20 most common items buyers have been found to carry in their car, from an MP3 player to a 1.5-litre drinks bottle.

Efficient, yet powerful, Astra’s engines are low on CO2 but high on power

The new Astra will be available with a range of eight engines, ranging from 87PS to 180PS, all of which offer impressive efficiency and an overall cut in emissions of 13.3 per cent compared with the current Astra range.

Diesel engines are expected to represent almost half of all Astra sales, and will range from a 1.7-litre producing 110PS to a 2.0-litre generating 160PS, but will never emit more than 129g/km when fitted with a manual transmission.

Crucially, there will be an important ecoFLEX model, equipped with a 95PS 1.3 CDTi available in Spring 2010. Fitted with this engine, the ecoFLEX will achieve 109g/km, while retaining driveability and refinement.

There will also be five petrol engines available, ranging from an 87PS 1.4-litre to a 180PS 1.6-litre Turbo. Included in this line up will be a new 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing 140PS, replacing the 1.8-litre motor used in the current range. This new powertrain perfectly illustrates Vauxhall’s engine downsizing philosophy which provides drivers with all the performance of a larger capacity engine, but with far fewer emissions.

Innovative Watt’s link rear axle equals fine dynamics and superior packaging

The new Astra’s front and rear tracks have been increased by 56mm and 70mm respectively, while its wheelbase has been increased by 71mm, the cumulative effect being improved handling and ride quality, as well as more space and comfort for occupants.

Continuing Vauxhall’s trend for innovation, its engineers have combined the size, weight and efficiency benefits of a compound crank rear axle with a cleverly positioned Watt’s link, which helps support lateral forces during cornering.

Complementing this system is a new version of Vauxhall’s FlexRide adaptive damping system, which adjusts the suspension character automatically depending on the driver’s needs, while also offering three programmable damper settings.

Finally, a core body structure, stiffer than that of the outgoing car, enhances the new Astra’s ride and handling still further, while also reducing noise and vibration inside the cabin.

Illustrating Vauxhall’s commitment to developing its cars specifically for British roads and drivers, the new Astra has bespoke UK steering settings developed in conjunction with the Vauxhall Engineering Centre, based at GM’s Millbrook Proving Ground in Bedfordshire.

Vauxhall brings technology and innovation to the compact class

While the Insignia succeeded in making new, high-tech innovations accessible in the mid-size sector, Vauxhall has set itself an even more ambitious goal in bringing most of these features to the compact sector with the new Astra. These include:

• Advanced Forward Lighting (AFL+) – Vauxhall’s third generation AFL+ which changes its intensity and reach to suit prevailing driving and road conditions using nine different light functions

• Ergonomic Driver’s Seat – featuring 6-way adjustment (4-way on front passenger seat), 4-way lumbar adjustment and an extendable seat cushion. Available on all trim levels, both the driver’s and front passenger’s seats provide enhanced support for overall body comfort.

• FlexFloor – provides flexible solutions to boot storage, and features a boot floor which is moveable and can be mounted in a choice of three positions according to owners’ needs.

• Flex-Fix – Vauxhall’s innovative bike carrier is integrated into the rear bumper. This optional feature, which slides out of the rear bumper like a draw, provides an easy and convenient method of transporting up to two bikes.

POWERTRAINS

• Downsized petrol engines and ultra-efficient diesels with power range from 87-180PS

• Significant reduction in emissions and fuel consumption over current Astra engines

• New 1.4-litre Turbo engine promises strong performance with meagre running costs

• ecoFLEX model to join range next year with 109g/km combined emissions

Boasting an eight-engine line-up from launch, the new Astra range will be on average 13.3 per cent cleaner and more economical than that of its predecessor, without denting the performance of any specific models. A ninth engine will be available in Spring 2010 and will power the first ecoFLEX model in the range, its 1.3 CDTi engine producing 95PS and achieving combined emissions of just 109g/km*.

Downsizing has been key to achieving lower emissions and fuel consumption, while a clear focus on high specific outputs and low-end torque values have ensured that strong performance is retained across the range.

The new 1.4-litre Turbo is a perfect example of this philosophy, producing 140PS and 139g/km combined C02 emissions, compared with the outgoing 1.8-litre engine, which produces the same power but with an extra 33g/km.

Sitting below the 1.4 Turbo in the petrol engine range are two normally aspirated 1.4-litre units producing 87 and 100PS respectively. Complementing these engines are two 1.6s: an un-blown unit with 115PS and a turbocharged version with 180PS.

The CDTi diesel line-up includes two 1.7-litre engines and one 2.0-litre unit, all of which feature common rail with multiple fuel injection and are equipped with particulate filters (DPFs). These range in power from 110PS for the lowest power 1.7 CDTi to 160PS for the 2.0 CDTi.

All Astra engines meet Euro 5 emissions standards and each of the four-cylinder units is mounted transversely and features an aluminium cylinder head, with dual overhead camshafts operating four valves per cylinder.

Cast iron blocks have been used across the range for strength and reduced noise resonance, with a hollow-frame design for minimized weight. A die-cast, structural aluminium oil pan adds further stiffness and noise suppression.

Continuously variable valve timing, for both inlet and exhaust sides, is adopted on all engines, except the 1.6 Turbo. The camshafts have hydraulically operated vane-type phasers which vary the angle of each camshaft relative to the crankshaft by up to 60 degrees on the inlet, and 45 degrees on the exhaust side.

Cam phasing allows the engine control module to adjust the timing of the valve opening and closing according to varying conditions, such as engine speed and load. The many benefits include a broader spread of torque, higher maximum power and improved fuel consumption. Cam phasing is also an effective tool for controlling exhaust emissions, managing valve overlap at optimum levels to eliminate the need for a separate exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) unit.

• Final figure to be confirmed

PETROL ENGINES IN DETAIL

1.4-litre (87 & 100PS versions)

The entry-level 1.4-litre, naturally-aspirated engine, with a specific power output of 71.4PS per litre (100PS unit), has excellent fuel economy and returns a combined 51.4mpg.

The camshafts are chain-driven for maintenance-free operation and feature automatic hydraulic adjustment. Further refinements include the use of hollow camshafts, for reduced weight and lower reciprocating mass, and a flywheel with a torsional vibration damper for improved running refinement. The fuel injection system also features port deactivation under part load for improved exhaust gas recirculation, giving lower emissions and improved fuel consumption.

Maximum power of either 87PS or 100PS is generated at 5600rpm or 6,000rpm with peak torque of 130Nm available at 4000rpm.

1.6-litre

Developing 115PS at 6,000rpm, the normally-aspirated 1.6-litre has an even higher specific power output (72.5PS per litre) than its 1.4-litre, naturally-aspirated cousin. Maximum torque of 155Nm is generated at 4,000rpm, with more than 90 per cent of this value available from 3,000rpm.

Fitted with this engine, the Astra will achieve a 0-60mph time of 10.9 seconds and a combined fuel consumption of 44.8mpg – only 8 per cent more than the 1.4-litre (100hp) engine.

A two-stage variable intake manifold is fitted, and for increased torque at engine speeds below about 4,000rpm, the fuel/air intake charge passes through 620mm long inlet tracts. Above 4,000rpm, the engine management system transmits a signal to channel the air along shorter 288mm tracts, which has the effect of increasing top-end engine power.

The engine’s cylinder barrels are laser-etched for an extremely smooth finish, giving minimal piston friction and wear characteristics, while also benefiting oil and fuel consumption. Under-skirt piston oil cooling also features.

1.4-litre Turbo

Strong performance and flexibility are the core strengths of this new-to-range engine, which produces 140PS. Torque generation is even more impressive, with 200Nm available from just 1,850rpm to 4,900rpm, translating to a 0-60mph acceleration time of 9.0 seconds.

The water-cooled turbocharger, spinning at up to 200,000 rpm, is integrated into the exhaust manifold, close to the engine, for a fast throttle response. Air-to-air intercooling increases the intake charge density.

The adoption of a steel crankshaft with reinforced pistons and con-rods allows the use of a relatively high 9.5: 1 compression ratio, despite higher stresses and loads. Under-skirt piston oil cooling jets and exhaust valves filled with sodium are further measures to ensure durability under higher internal temperatures.

1.6-litre Turbo

The most powerful engine in the Astra’s line-up produces 180PS and achieves a specific output of just over 100PS per litre. Available in both SE and sport chassis-equipped SRi models, the 1.6 Turbo is the most powerful series production engine in its displacement class.

The 1.6 Turbo’s high power is matched by an impressively wide plateau of torque, with 230Nm available from 2,200rpm to 5,400rpm. With this engine, the new Astra can accelerate from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds, and from 50-70mph in fifth gear in just 8.4 seconds.

In common with the 1.6 naturally-aspirated engine, the cylinder barrels are laser-etched for minimal piston friction. To withstand higher operating temperatures, the exhaust valves are filled with sodium and under-skirt piston cooling with oil jets is used. A map-based thermostat control raises the coolant temperature at low engine speeds, or under light loads, to help reduce internal lubricant friction and improve fuel consumption.

DIESEL ENGINES IN DETAIL

All Astra diesel engines are fitted with:

• 16-valve, dual overhead camshafts

• A weight-saving aluminum cylinder head

• Threaded intake ports for exceptional ‘swirl’ and burn characteristics

• Oil jet cooled pistons

• A dual-mass flywheel and a maintenance-free exhaust particulate filter.

The diesel line-up comprises:

1.7 CDTi
Available in two states of tune, providing either 110PS and 260Nm of torque, or 125PS and 280Nm. Combined cycle fuel consumption for both is 60.1mpg.

2.0 CDTi
The 2.0 CDTi packs 160PS with an exceptionally strong 350Nm of torque from just 1,750rpm. This helps it achieve a 0-60mph time of just 8.5 seconds and 50-70mph in 6.4 seconds, together with a combined fuel consumption of just 57.6mpg.

MODEL RANGE

The Astra range comprises five models – S, Exclusiv, SRi, SE and Elite – each of which comes with high levels of equipment as standard, including ESP, six airbags, air conditioning, daytime running lights and electric windows.

Complementing the Astra’s Automatic Forward Lighting, FlexRide and Ergonomic Sports Seats is a comprehensive list of optional equipment that allows drivers to personalise their car to a high degree. Highlights include CD500 satellite navigation, Dual Zone Electronic Climate Control, front and rear parking sensors and a tyre pressure monitoring system.

S

High quality begins with the S entry level. The interior features black Cordoba cloth trim and a raft of standard equipment, including CD400 CD player/stereo radio with MP3 format and aux-in socket, electrically adjustable/heated door mirrors and remote control central locking. Also included are 16-inch steel wheels with flush covers, a driver’s seat height adjuster, 60:40 split rear seat and reach/rake adjustable steering wheel.

Exclusiv

The Exclusiv is available in black Scene cloth trim, and in addition to the S, the interior features a chrome-bezelled steering wheel and ambient lighting in the centre console and roof. Cruise control is standard, and the steering wheel incorporates audio controls. There are supplementary storage areas in the front seat-backs and a covered storage container in the centre console.

SRi

SRi models ride on 17-inch, 5-spoke alloy wheels, and all apart from the 1.4-litre come with lowered and uprated sports suspension as standard. SRis interiors are trimmed in black Lace cloth and feature an electric park brake, sports front seats, a multi-function computer and front seat armrest. In addition, the SRi has illuminated vanity mirrors, a three-spoke leather steering wheel and ambient lighting in the front doors. Outside, the SRi is easily identified by dark-style headlights, front fog lights and a chrome-effect side window surround. A Flex-Floor luggage compartment and front door sill covers complete the package.

For those buyers who wish to personalize their SRi further, Vauxhall will be offering a range of SRi Line models in the near future. This adds 18-inch, 5-twinspoke alloy wheels, a front lower spoiler, rear lower skirt, rear roof spoiler and side sills to the standard SRi spec.

SE

Externally SE (and Elite) models are identifiable by their unique 17-inch 10-spoke alloy wheels. Inside, the cabin is trimmed with Ribbon / Morrocana fabrics and equipped with rain sensitive windscreen wipers, automatic lighting control with tunnel detection, an electro-chromatic anti-dazzle rear-view mirror and electric rear windows.

Elite

The range-topping Astra Elite’s cabin is trimmed in perforated leather as standard and, in addition to the equipment found in the SE, comes with Ergonomic Front Seats which are heated and feature extendable cushions and electric adjustment. Dual-zone electronic climate control, electrically foldable door mirrors and a fold-down rear-seat centre armrest are also standard.

Vauxhall Astra: Technical Data Overview

Vauxhall Astra hatchback – Performance Data

All data refer to the European base model with standard equipment. The consumption data according to 1999/100/EC takes into consideration the vehicle’s kerb weight as stipulated by this regulation. Additional equipment can lead to slightly higher fuel consumption and therefore CO2 exhaust emissions than the declared values. In addition, they can raise the vehicle’s kerb weight and in some cases also increase the gross vehicle weight, the maximum allowable axle loads and respectively reduce the permitted trailer load. Therefore the maximum speed may be decreased while acceleration time can be increased. The published performance figures are possible with the vehicle’s kerb weight.

Vauxhall Astra : Dimensions & Weights