Opel CEO Says All-New Astra K Will Have "Awesome Design" and More Space

Heavily camouflaged prototypes have been seen testing across Europe for over a year now. We have a rough idea of what to expect in terms of design, but Neumann assures us that the new Astra will feature “an awesome design”, highest efficiency and an abundance of innovations.

Those are big words coming, but recent reports back that up. The Astra K will be shorter than its predecessor, but interior space will be enhanced. The J model is a bit of a pig, so it's pleasing to hear that the D2XX platform will hep shed between 120-200 kg (264-441 lbs).

Recent information from German media suggests the Astra will be a back-to-basics family hatchback, ignoring some of the advanced features from the VW Golf, like AWD and adjustable suspension.

Neumann's words also suggest that there won't be any carryover engines, at least not any old ones (the 1.6-liter whisper diesels are brand new). The petrol engine range may debut a 105 PS 1-liter turbo 3-cylinder, followed by a new 1.4-liter making 145 PS. The 1.6-liter SIDI Turbos will offer 170 and 200 PS.

The diesel engine range will center around the 1.6-liter block, which using a twin-turbo setup may be pushed all the way to 170 PS. Opel officials have made it abundantly clear that an EV or PHEV is not going to happen since a bespoke model to replace the Ampera will take care of that segment of the market.

"With each Kadett generation, Opel made individual mobility accessible to millions of people around the world, and several generations of Astra have brought innovative technologies from the upper class into the affordable compact segment. Each generation has raised the bar in safety, comfort and efficiency. The new Astra will once again set standards in the compact class. Amongst others, it will be the first new Opel model to be launched with Opel OnStar’s unique connected service that is ready to help and rescue you 24 hours a day, 365 days a year," said Dr. Neumann.