We are with the Opel Astra.
As you can see, the Astra attained brand new look.
But of course this does not limit the innovations of the Astra.
It looks as if the Astra reached the levels of the premium models with the new engines, new safety technologies and rich equipment options.
You know that I have previously analyzed the Astra in the studio in detail.
Now is the time to test this car.
Let’s see what kind of new features the Astra offers?
Let’s analyze it together...
The design of the Astra is much more dynamic now.
Due to these lines on the bonnet, wider designed grill
and LED Matrix headlamps that can be purchased optional, the Astra is much more attention grabbing when you look from the front.
The dynamic design factor continues on the Astra’s sides as well.
The shoulder line that starts from the front fender and ascending towards the rear adds a motion to the Astra’s side view.
But there is a fixture here that is more important and that is this black piece that has been added to the C column of the Astra.
I personally did not adore this but it is a fact that it added motion to the design.
And finally the time came for the rear of the car.
I can sincerely say that I liked the rear of the Astra best.
I believe the wedge form taillights tapering towards boot lid have a share in it.
Apart from that, there is another more important detail and that is this protruding piece which makes the Astra appear much more powerful.
Thus far I have told you similar things in the studio any way.
Now is the time, which you have been waiting anxiously, to the test drive.
Let’s start...
You are probably thinking that I will leave the coat...
Finally, I am behind the steering wheel of the Astra.
The interior of the Astra possesses much more varied and modern design than the model it replaced.
As a matter of fact if I tell you that it has been completely renewed I think I will not be misleading you.
In here, the only think that looks like the old model is the indicators.
Apart from these, ranging from the trip computer in the middle of the indicators, this three-spoke leather steering wheel,
the multimedia system with 8 inches Intelilink and the controls of the A/C system underneath are all different.
Especially, the console design in my opinion looks pleasing to the eye.
The soft plastic materials used on top, the shiny black section underneath and the chromium piece, provide the cockpit to appear more elite and premium.
You are able to reach the entire menu from the touch screen.
The sensitivity of the touch screen is very good and as for me it is very easy to use.
The A/C controls underneath have a plain design.
You are able to understand what is what very easily.
The different controls that attract attention here are the seat heating and cooling system.
Furthermore, there is steering wheel heating system in this car as well.
Of course, I have to point out that these are purchased optional.
The only thing I did not like and did not understand about the mid console is this piece under the A/C.
To tell the truth, when I first get behind the wheel, I supposed that it was a lidded cubicle and even forced it a bit.
Finally, I realized it is not so.
Frankly speaking, if you ask my opinion, if they had made a lidded cubicle here where you can put your wallet and mobile phone, I think it would have been better.
But, nevertheless there are places for your small items.
Here under the sliding lid, there are two-cup holders and arm rest where you can put certain articles.
The design of the three-spoke leather steering wheel is good and it fits to the hand well.
In my opinion the usage of the controls on it is very easy too.
The massage functional and programmable logical controlled AGR seats are very comfortable and wraps up the driver very well.
The massage function in my opinion is good but in addition to this to offer heating and cooling system, as far as I know, no other car in this class does possess these features.
This I can say is a plus to the Astra.
Naturally, for this function to pay 6.500 TL extra and it serving only the driver is a bit steep.
In the end, while you are having pleasure here, when the passenger next to you is deprived of it is not fair.
Even though the dimensions of the Astra is decreased, due to the increase of the axle span it offers better knee room than the previous generation.
Due to a design play in the roof upholstery, in other words due to a groove there, better headroom is offered.
As to the boot capacity, 360 liters is in a level to satisfy the class standards and expectations.
Let us consider the engine and driving features of the Astra.
Under the bonnet of the Astra that I have tested, 1.6 liters turbo charge diesel engine is functioning.
This engine that develops 136 HP and 320 Nm of torque can be purchased either with manual gearbox or with automatic gearbox.
In the car that I am driving 6-speed automatic gearbox is performing.
This engine has the title to be the most powerful in its class due to the power it develops.
OK this engine, which is good numerically, is it also good in the real world?
I should tell you clearly that this engine has a very lively disposition.
You feel that torque under your foot in every rpm.
In other words it is enough to press the throttle when you want to accelerate.
It provides you with the traction you need continuously.
I can clearly say that I liked the traction and performance of the engine.
And it is in harmony with the gearbox.
The passes are smooth and fast.
You are able to change the gears manually from the gear lever too.
But if you ask my opinion, I have frankly sought the pedals behind the steering wheel during the test drive.
But as I have said in the beginning the engine reactions to your requests are so good that you virtually do not need to use the gearbox manually.
In my opinion the suspensions of the Astra is comfortable.
It even absorbs the impacts on the rough surfaces in the city vey well.
As for highway driving you can really have smooth and comfortable ride.
You are able to engage the corners safely too as long as you do not force the limits.
The steering wheel apart from fitting to your hand well, it answers your orders fast and explicitly.
In the matter of insulation the Astra did not evoke any deficiency to me.
The road and wind noise definitely stays outside the cockpit.
But if the car goes over rough surfaces, than naturally, the noise level coming from the road increases somewhat.
Let us consider the fuel consumption that you have anxiously been waiting.
I have taken this car brand new and pressed the starter.
At the moment I have covered 580 kilometers and the trip computer indicates 7.6 liters fuel consumption averages.
During this time I have driven the Astra in the city as well as the highway extensively.
Therefore, I can clearly say that this 7.6 liters value I have indicated is what a normal driver will achieve in normal driving.
For the new Astra there are both many things to be said and also nothing.
But if we are to come to the nub of the story I think the Astra is really ‘done’...
With the powerful diesel engine, comfortable driving features and increased material quality
the Astra this time looks like it will give its rivals intimidation to a large extent.
See you…