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Opel Astra OPC (2013)
by Barry Green,reviewed August 2013
Opel’s Astra OPC boasts more power and torque than arch rivals Megane RS 265 Cup (195kW/360Nm) and VW Scirocco R (188/330).
Unfortunately, it tips the scales at 1494kg (some 119kg heavier than the RS and 143kg more than the R), so some of that under-bonnet advantage is negated.
However, the OPC still soars from 0-100km/h in a claimed and rapid 6.0 seconds. There is a little turbo lag, and some torque steer when the hammer goes down, but a slick-shifting six-speed manual gearbox brings out the best of the 2.0-litre turbo four.
The suspension settings, throttle response and steering weighting are able to be adjusted via Sport and extreme OPC switches. The latter is really only appropriate in a controlled environment, like a track day. There’s a nice handling balance between grip and agility, though the ride on optional 20-inch alloys fitted with fat rubber is harsh on anything less than smooth hot mix, but this is par for course with most Euro pocket rockets.
The leather sports seats have plenty of powered adjustment, but the dash is busy with way too many single-purpose controls.
Bristling with a performance portfolio developed at Germany’s fabled Nurburgring race track, Astra OPC should be on any hot hatch buyer’s short list. And, yes, you could live with one every day – with a little compromise.
For
Performance, handling, braking
Against
Tyre inflator kit, busy dash
Key features
Dual climate-control, 19” alloys, 10-way powered front sports seats with four-way lumbar, choice of driving modes, mechanical limited slip differential, Brembo front brakes, body kit, premium audio system, sat-nav, bluetooth with voice control, rear park assist
Safety
Dual front/front side/curtain airbags, electronic stability/traction control, anti-lock brakes, active headrests, hill start control
Car Details
Vehicle make |
Opel |
Vehicle model |
Astra OPC |
Vehicle type |
Small Over $35,000 |
Year |
2013 |
Price when new |
$42,990 MLP |
Current price range |
$ - $
|
ANCAP crash rating |
|
Insurance |
Get a quote for car insurance |
Approved Repairers |
Our expert team of approved repairers can perform general and specialist repairs, including auto-electrical, air-conditioning, radiator repairs and automatic transmissions. |
Engine |
2.0-litre, direct-injection turbo-petrol, 4-cyl |
Max power |
206kW @ 5300rpm |
Max torque |
400Nm @ 2400-4800rpm |
Acceleration to 100 km/h |
6.0 sec (claimed) |
Economy ADR |
8.1 litres/100km (95 RON) |
Emissions rating |
|
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This review is based on road testing conducted by The Road Ahead. Further vehicle reviews, in-depth comparisons and coverage of consumer motoring issues can be found in the Club's magazine. Prices listed were current at the time of review and are manufacturers list prices and do not include statutory and delivery charges. Prices can vary from time to time and dealer to dealer.