Opel Astra: prices and specifications

Opel Astra: history of the model range

Opel Astra is a compact car that the German company Adam Opel AG has been producing since 1991. The name of the model translates from Latin as "star." Astra replaced the Opel Kadett line, which began production in 1962. In different countries, the model is known under other brands: Vauxhall Astra (UK), Buick Excelle XT (China), and Chevrolet Astra/Vectra (Latin America).

First generation (F)

The first generation model with the factory index F was introduced in 1991. The car was produced in five body types: three- and five-door hatchback, sedan, station wagon, and convertible. It was based on the T-Body platform. The engine range included petrol engines with a displacement of 1.4 to 2.0 liters and one diesel engine of 1.7 liters. Transmissions were a four-speed automatic or a five-speed manual. Assembly was established not only in Germany but also in Belgium, Spain, South Africa, India, England, Ukraine, Hungary, and Taiwan.

Second generation (G)

The second generation Astra (factory code G) was shown in 1998. In addition to the familiar body styles — sedan, hatchback, convertible, and station wagon — a coupe was added in 2000. The car was still built on the refined T-Body platform. The engine range expanded: petrol engines with displacements of 1.2, 2.4, 4.0, and 5.7 liters appeared, as well as diesel engines of 2.0 and 2.2 liters. Production was additionally established in Poland, Russia, Brazil, Egypt, and Thailand.

Third generation (H)

The third generation Astra (code H) debuted in 2004 and for the first time received the Delta platform. The set of body styles remained the same. Under the hood, new series engines appeared — petrol Family and diesel Flexpower. In addition to the traditional five-speed manual and four-speed automatic, a six-speed manual, a five-speed robotized, and a six-speed automatic were added.

Fourth generation (J)

The fourth generation Opel Astra (factory code J) was introduced in 2009 at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The model is built on the Delta II platform. Drive is front-wheel.

In Ukraine, sales of the Astra J started in 2010. On the local market, the car was offered in station wagon, sedan, and three- and five-door hatchback body styles. The engine range was updated: petrol engines with a displacement of 1.4–1.6 liters and diesel engines with a displacement of 1.3–2.0 liters. Transmissions were five- or six-speed manual, as well as a six-speed automatic.