Opel Astra 1.8

A conventional automatic and a more powerful engine are just the things the Opel Astra needs to show us what a good car it really is

What's New
For those who believe in the "less is more" axiom, the Opel Astra 1.8 would be an ideal example for their cause.

Joining the existing range of 1.6 and 2.0-litre turbo models, the latest Astra plugs the gap between the latter two with a 1.8-litre powerplant and more significantly, a four-speed automatic transmission.

While self-shifting gearboxes might be commonplace in new cars today, the entry-level Astra was only offered with semi-automatic that Opel calls Easytronic. While its five speed manual gearbox with an automated clutch promises the convenience of an auto with none of the usual performance drawbacks, a substantial change in driving style is required if smooth progress is desired.

Only available with a 6-speed manual, the Astra Turbo places itself out of contention for those shopping for an automatic car.

How it Performs
Enter the Astra 1.8. No fancy paddle shifts on the steering wheel or even a "+/-" Tiptronic-style manual override. Instead, all you get is a straightforward transmission gate layout that stylishly clad in leather.

This is actually a good thing for those who feel that well-sorted automatic transmission should always 'know' which gear to select and not have to be coaxed or superseded by the driver.

We drove the Astra 1.8 the way it was meant to - with the gearlever in 'D' - and it was never caught in the wrong gear. Its beefier engine also put the extra 20bhp to good use with a pleasantly lively response throughout the speed range.

Changing gears with effortless fluency, we were also able to better appreciate the Astra's refined ride quality and found it to be a comfortable long distance cruiser with up to four adults on board.

How it Stacks Up
In its German home market, the Astra competes head-on with the likes of the Volkswagen Golf, which says a lot about how accomplished this Opel really is.

Over here, the Astra might be sparsely equipped compared to the Golf, but latter's $10,000 premium immediately put things in perspective.

Having said that however, it is also unlikely that the Astra owner will even miss the additional features of its rival as his hatchback has a few party tricks of its own as well.

Its cabin for one, reflects the crisp and contemporary styling of the exterior while the application of high quality switchgear add to the impression that the Astra is a more expensive car than its price tag would suggest.

For even more style, there's also the option of a two-tone orange and grey interior that imparts a suitably cool, techy ambience that suggests its owner wouldn't look too lost in a Hugo Boss boutique.

And for those quibbling over the higher running cost of owing a 1.8-litre versus a 1.6-litre car, you're either missing the fact that Cat B COEs have been consistently lower than Cat A premiums and that orange may not be your colour.

Technical Specifications

MODEL Opel Astra 1.8 ENGINE Engine: 1,796cc 16v in-line four Max Power: 125bhp @ 5,600rpm Max Torque: 170Nm @ 3,800rpm TRANSMISSION 4-speed automatic TOP SPEED 188 kmh 0-100km/h 11.9s