Opel Astra officially returns to New Zealand
Words: Harrison Wade | Photos: Opel
Today marks the day when a familiar nameplate returns to the country, with Opel New Zealand announcing that the new Astra is now available to order in New Zealand.
The model, once sold under the Holden brand, will arrive on our shores with two variants to choose from, including the Astra SRi and plug-in hybrid Astra GSe.
Under the bonnet of the SRi sits a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine generating 96kW while the GSe combines a 1.6-litre turbo unit with a plug-in hybrid system to output 165kW. Both models will receive an eight-speed automatic gearbox.
The PHEV can travel up to 60km on pure electric power alone and comes with sport suspension and steering.
Both models receive a black roof and exterior trims, tinted rear windows, and 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels. Those who go for the GSe will receive 18-inch gloss black diamond cut alloy wheels and sports front and rear bumpers.
As for colours, Astra customers can choose from Amber Yellow, Cobalt Blue and Ruby Red, as well as a range of more neutral tones.
The interior has been equipped with a digital 10-inch instrument panel that can be configured to one’s liking and a 10-inch central infotainment touchscreen.
Black Alcantara and leatherette trim also features inside (the GSe gets upgraded ‘sports’ black Alcantara), along with a heated steering wheel, 10-way adjustable driver’s seat with memory function and ambient interior lighting.
Other key features of the Astra include adaptive LED headlights with high beam assist, adaptive cruise control, semi-autonomous lane positioning assist, rear cross traffic alert, long range blind spot monitoring, and front and rear parking sensors with a 360 degree view camera.
Both Astra variants are set to arrive by this July, with the SRi starting from $49,990 while the GSe PHEV’s pricing has yet to be confirmed.
Opel says that the Astra also qualifies for the Government’s Clean Car Discount, which sees $2593 be removed from the SRi’s price tag and $5750 get taken of the GSe’s.
