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Station wagon expertise

Over 50 Years of Success: Station Wagon Models from Opel

*Trend-setter: Market leader with practical and elegant cars
*Role model: New Astra station wagon again sets the standard in its class
*Added value: Spacious interior, clever and functional features

Opel redefined interior flexibility and fostered the development of new target groups with compact vans like the practical seven-seat Zafira (1999) or the clever Meriva (2003). But classic station wagon fans are not swayed by these successful models. Market research shows that customers who want the sportier low seating-position of a passenger car, and prefer a more dynamic driving experience, will remain true to station wagons.
When it comes to station wagons, Opel is one of the front-runners and major players in the car industry. The brand with the blitz logo made station wagons popular in Europe, for example with the high-capacity versions of the Rekord and Kadett, just two of Opel?s successful models. The station wagon versions of the compact class Astra are amongst the absolute top models in Opel?s more than 50-year success story with station wagons. To date, around 2.4 million have been sold. This not only made them number one in their segment for years (1993 ? 1999), but also in the entire European station wagon market. Just how popular Opel?s compact station wagon models are with European drivers is underlined by their share of total Astra sales. In 1997, this reached a high of 44.3 percent throughout Europe and was even considerably higher in Germany at almost 58 percent. In 1996, their share of total Astra sales in Switzerland reached 57.7 percent and 46.9 percent in the Netherlands.
The success story of Opel station wagon models began over 50 years ago. The world was talking about the German economic miracle, the expression ?mass motorization? was making the rounds, and more and more Germans had vacation destinations such as northern Italy?s Lake Garda on their agenda. It?s no wonder that many dreamed of a versatile car for everyday use and commuting as well as for weekend and holiday trips with the whole family. The station wagon idea was in the air, becoming clearer every day, and in 1953 Opel was ready. The automaker presented an attractive station wagon variant of the new Olympia Rekord with a pontoon-type body and the characteristic ?shark face?.

Transformation: From delivery wagon to family car for work and leisure

The station wagon was quickly all the rage in Europe, a perfect synthesis of elegant, presentable sedan and practical commercial vehicle. In a brochure explaining the concept, Opel stated, ?With little effort and minimal strength, the rear seats can be folded forward, turning the elegant, presentable station wagon into a commercial vehicle with high practical value and real economic efficiency.? Opel?s copywriters weren?t exaggerating. In contrast to other customary box-section delivery vans at the time, the Rekord station wagon radiated modern elegance and had generous window area for that era. The transformation from being purely a delivery van for work to a family car with increased utility for everyday and leisure use had begun. Just a few years later, station wagon drivers were already considered smart buyers who could use their cars in a variety of ways.
After this successful premiere, station wagon variants rounded off every new Rekord generation. Beginning in March 1963, Opel expanded the station wagon concept into the compact car segment with the Kadett station wagon. The predecessor of today?s Astra played a big role in the fact that soon almost every second German station wagon was an Opel. When production stopped on the Kadett A in 1965, the proportion sedan/station wagon was 523.000 to 127.000 ? a station wagon share of almost 20 percent.

Objective: Generous space within compact dimensions

One of the reasons the compact Opel station wagon sold so well was its spaciousness. Its generous loading area was able to compete with some of the station wagon competitors in the mid-size segment. This was mostly due to the packaging. This special Opel expertise focuses on the clever segmentation of space for technology, passengers and luggage. The objective is to offer as much usable space as possible from a given area, while offering best possible comfort, ergonomics and visibility.
The station wagon models impressed not only with extraordinary space, but also with clever features. Opel offered an extra for the Kadett station wagon that already hinted at today?s vans: an additional children?s bench seat mounted in reboard position in the luggage area. Current examples are the sliding rear bench seat in the Astra station wagon and the patented FlexOrganizer system for the versatile and secure transport of goods. This feature, already proven in the Vectra station wagon, was further enhanced for the new Astra station wagon and is a novelty in the segment.
But it?s not only thanks to such ideas that Opel was and remains the front-runner in station wagons. The carmaker set milestones in 1970 when it created the new market segment ?lower mid-size? with the Ascona and continued the station wagon tradition there with the new model name ?Voyage? and new side panelling in a wood look. The Ascona luxury station wagon?s name turned out to be an accurate forecast: in the early 70?s only 20 percent of station wagon owners used their car privately, while this number increased to over 50 percent in the early 90?s.
Opel has always been a trend-setter in station wagons. The Commodore C Voyage (1981) was the first six-cylinder, and the Omega A station wagon 24 V, with its 204 hp 3-liter, in-line six-cylinder engine, started the trend to high-capacity, high-power station wagons in the upper price category. The Astra station wagon 16V with 150 hp followed in 1993 in the compact segment as the highest performance station wagon in its class. The new Astra station wagon goes a step further with its 150 hp 1.9 CDTI diesel and 2.0-liter turbo gasoline engine with 200 hp. With its unique combination of exceptionally generous, versatile space, high functionality and driving dynamics, it again sets standards in its class.

Design, packaging and versatility

Elegant Looks and Well-Balanced Proportions

*Dynamic lines with styling elements from the five-door Astra
*Long wheelbase creates more space for passengers and luggage
*Sliding rear bench seat and other clever details for added versatility

With its sporty front-end styling, bold three-dimensional tail lights, generous rear window area and striking rear side windows, the new Opel Astra station wagon (drag coefficient cD = 0.32) carries on the five-door?s dynamic design line. Its unmistakable V-shaped front end makes it instantly recognizable as a member of the dynamic Astra family. The wide, trapezoidal radiator grill with the blitz emblem flows seamlessly into the engine hood, which - with its prominent crease - is a classic Opel design feature. This central crease is a major styling element that runs through the interior to the rear.
The newcomer?s distinctive look is accentuated by the three-dimensional wraparound headlamps that extend around the sides of the body. Their inset facetted surfaces and technically interesting details are further evidence of Opel? design language moving towards the expression of stronger emotion.
The chrome clip at the front is echoed by a broad, gleaming chrome strip on the tailgate. This blends into the vertically arranged, three-dimensional tail lights and pulls the rear end together to form a smooth, unified look. The third brake light, which uses LED technology, is located at the rear end of the roof, which is shaped like a roof spoiler. The generous window area of the tailgate provides a good view to the rear and easy access to the loading area. The tailgate is opened electrically by a sensor pad located behind the center fold of the chrome strip.
Together with the steep side panels, strength and stability can be seen in the broad and powerful shoulders running from front to rear. The side profile is also defined by the unusual shape of the side windows, which are located between the C and D pillars and emphasize the dynamic roof line. The high-quality roof rails add to the station wagon?s elegant look and are available in either black or silver.

Plenty of space: 2.70-meter wheelbase creates generous loading area

To provide as much space as possible for passengers and luggage, the Astra station wagon?s development engineers positioned the axles far apart. Thanks to its 2.70-meter wheelbase (around 9 cm longer than the five-door model and predecessor station wagon), the newcomer has plenty of legroom in the rear and up to 1590 liters of cargo space ? 90 liters more than the previous model. At the same time, the overall dimensions (length/width/ height: 4.51/2.03/1.50 meters) keep it in the compact class.
The rear suspension layout made the packaging specialists? job much easier by allowing for optimal use of space. The torsion-beam rear suspension design is so compact that it allowed the fuel tank to be ideally placed down low between the wheels. The top side of the tank is hollowed out to enable lower installation of the rear seats, thereby lowering the center of gravity. Another advantage of the compact rear axle is that it provides space for a full-size spare wheel under the Astra station wagon?s flat trunk floor.
Another highlight of the new Astra station wagon is the flexibility of the rear bench seat. The rear seat cushions and seat backs can be folded forward separately in a standard 60:40 split. As an optional extra, an even more versatile 40:20:40 split is available (standard in the ?Enjoy? version). A rear seat that can be slid backwards or forwards is optional for the ?Enjoy? variant, allowing configuration of the station wagon for either maximum load-carrying volume or optimal passenger comfort.
The optional sliding rear bench seat (longitudinal adjustment range of 105 mm) can be adjusted to increase the standard above-average legroom of 897 millimeters (26 mm more than its predecessor) up to 936 mm. Thus the Astra station wagon offers the space and comfort found in cars two classes higher, such as the Omega station wagon. Even when the seating configuration for optimal passenger comfort is chosen, 500 liters of loading capacity are still available (up to top of rear bench seat).
The rear bench can simply be slid forward when more loading space is needed, increasing the load length up to 1122 mm compared to the standard version?s 1085 mm. With this seat position, the luggage compartment offers 540 liters of space up to the top of the rear seat back, and a load-through hatch when the center armrest is folded down provides even more flexibility. This all still leaves enough room for children in the back.
They travel most comfortably and safely in Opel Duo Isofix seats, which can be secured to the standard mountings on the outer rear seats and firmly fix the seats to the body structure.
When the rear seats (applies to both versions) are folded forward, loading capacity increases to 900 liters up to the top of the front seat back. If fully loaded up to the roof (in this case the optional retaining net is recommended), the loading area holds as much as 1590 liters. And if the station wagon has a foldable front passenger seat, maximal load length can even be extended to 2.70 meters.

Well thought-out: FlexOrganizer and many clever details make load carrying easier

A number of design details ensure the luggage compartment can be optimally used. The standard stainless steel rim protects the 591 mm low trunk sill from scratches. There is a compartment in the right wheel-arch protector for small items, and an additional storage space is provided under the luggage compartment floor for articles that are not needed so often.
The warning triangle is stored in the tailgate trim where it can easily be reached, and a 12-volt socket (standard in ?Enjoy?) is available. The convenient opening system for the luggage compartment cover has been especially designed for the new Opel Astra station wagon. Just a gentle touch of the rear handle smoothly retracts the cover into its casing, which is extremely compact and can easily be mounted and detached.
Already proven in the Vectra station wagon, the patented FlexOrganizer system for versatile storage of goods was further enhanced for the Astra. The horizontal side rails that make up the core of the flexible loading space management system are in anodized aluminum. A flexible system of nets and foldable dividers to organize the luggage compartment can be snapped into the rails. In addition to the side rails, the FlexOrganizer package consists of the following elements:

*Separator net with two rods, for use as a luggage compartment divider or for horizontal attachment to the upper and lower rails, so that coats, for example, can be carried flat
*Attachment fixtures: four hooks to attach the separator net or to carry bags
*Side net: a net shaped like a bag for the side panel to store small items such as maps or a road atlas

Individual: Cleverly designed accessories for even greater versatility

An extensive selection of accessories makes it even easier to arrange the luggage compartment for individual transportation purposes. Items available for reconfiguring the luggage compartment are:

*Strong plastic folding storage box (size approx. 380 x 300 x 340 mm): it can be folded to save space, and also used as a step
*Retaining straps for the folding storage box or other articles
*Service box made of high-strength plastic (size approx. 260 x120 x190 mm) for attachment to the upper or lower rails
*Multifunction box with cooling and heating function, made from ultra-lightweight polyester (weight approx. 5 kg, capacity: 15 liters)
*Interior bike rack for up to two bicycles

Safety

SAFETEC System Helps Prevent Accidents and Increase Crashworthiness

*Extensive safety package protects front and rear seat passengers
*Euro NCAP awarded new Astra five stars for passenger protection
*Accident prevention with new technology vital part of safety concept

Reducing the driver?s workload, making the vehicle easier to control, avoiding accidents or, if they are unavoidable, reducing their consequences ? these were the factors in an integrated concept pursued by the GM/Opel engineers responsible for developing the third-generation Astra. They were given the task of building in the highest possible active and passive safety levels ? an ambitious target that they were able to accomplish with the extensive SAFETEC safety system and a range of innovations with which the new Astra sets standards even beyond its class. From the very start it was decided that all these innovations should be available for every body style, so that the complete model line could offer the same consistently high level of safety.
The new Astra´s high standard of passive safety was recently confirmed yet again by an independent authority: After conducting crash tests, the consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Program) awarded the Astra the highest rating of five stars for passenger safety. With a total of 34 points, Euro NCAP classifies the Opel bestseller the safest sedan in the compact (small family) car segment. The five-door Astra was also awarded four stars and 39 points for excellent child protection. Euro NCAP?s partners include the European Commission, the German, Dutch and British transport ministries and the German automobile club ADAC.
The extensive SAFETEC safety package builds on a firm foundation: the bodyshell is extremely deformation-stable and rigid. Compared with the previous model, GM/Opel´s engineers were able to increase the flexural strength of the new Astra?s body by 52 percent and the transverse flexural rigidity by 47 percent. Torsional rigidity, a factor governing accurate suspension response, has been improved by 15 percent.
The importance Opel places on collision avoidance and passive safety is once again underlined by the extensive SAFETEC system in the new Astra station wagon. This elaborate safety package is based on the interaction of all standard active and passive safety features. These include:

*IDS chassis (Interactive Driving System) with ESPPlus Electronic Stability Program and TCPlus traction control
*ABS with brake assist, CBC Cornering Brake Control and four disk brakes
*Front and thorax/pelvis side airbags for driver and front seat passenger, head curtain airbags in front and for outer rear seats
*Active head restraints in front, height-adjustable
*Three height-adjustable head restraints in rear
*Three-point safety belts for all seats, height-adjustable in front
*Safety belt force limiter and pyrotechnical belt tensioner in front
*High-strength safety body with crash boxes and sensors
*Acoustic warning signal and control light for unfastened seat belts in front
*Side impact protection
*Safety steering column (height and reach-adjustable)
*Automatic release safety pedals PRS (Pedal Release System)

*Mountings for ISOFIX child?s seat system on outer rear seats
*Child safety catch on rear doors
*Automatic activation of hazard warning blinkers and unlocking of doors after airbag or belt tensioner is triggered

New, large side airbags in the front seats that protect the thorax and pelvis areas of driver and front passenger are an integral part of the SAFETEC system. They supplement the head curtain air bags on the left and right in the roof pillar and both front air bags. A total of six crash sensors signal a collision to the electronic control unit, which ensures the airbags are triggered at the proper time according to the severity of the impact. The sophisticated sensor technology also enables more precise differentiation between serious collisions and minor accidents, in which deployment of the airbag would not provide any additional protection to the safety belt system. Unnecessary replacement costs can thus be avoided. The same applies to the airbag control module, which runs a self-check following a collision and shows if it has to be replaced depending on the severity of the impact.
The optional seat occupancy recognition prevents the front and side airbags on the front passenger side from being activated if the front passenger seat is not occupied or if a child?s seat equipped with a transponder is mounted in the reboard-position. A control light in the instrument panel blinks continuously as soon as the system detects the reboard-child?s seat. Only then is the airbag deactivated and a small child can ride up front. ISOFIX mounting equipment is included in delivery with the seat occupancy recognition for the front passenger seat. Both outer rear seats come standard ex-works with ISOFIX mounting equipment for corresponding children?s seats.

Innovation program: New technologies for even greater active safety

Other innovative technologies, available to this extent for the first time in the Astra station wagon category, increase driving safety even more. They include the IDSPlus suspension system with electronic damping control and networking of all dynamic driving systems, as well as Adaptive Forward Lighting (AFL), in which the bi-xenon headlamps are steering-linked. This system had its world premiere in the Vectra and Signum, and now also provides dynamic curve light and adaptive highway light functions in the new Astra station wagon. Depending on road speed, steering and the car?s yaw rate, the headlamp beams swivel to follow a curve in the road as the car approaches. When driving fast on a straight road, automatic beam angle control illuminates the highway farther ahead than usual with the low beams without blinding oncoming traffic.
The ALC (Automatic Lighting Control) automatic headlamp dip (low beam) device, a rain sensor that activates the windshield wipers in wet weather and the ?Quickheat? heating system that prevents windows from fogging or icing up after they have been scraped clear all contribute to an increase in active driving safety. Other significant contributions are made by the new trailer stability program, UCL (Understeer Control Logic) and TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System).

Equipment and extras

Innovative Technology and High Level of Comfort

*Customized: Choice of five equipment lines
*Individual: High-value extras for all needs
*First-in-class: IDSPlus with electronic damping control and AFL headlamps

The new Astra station wagon comes with comprehensive standard equipment and benefits from the exceptional technical features available for new-generation Astra models. These include high-tech options such as the IDSPlus suspension system with electronic damping control and steering-linked AFL headlamps, a premiere in the compact car class. The station wagon?s cockpit also offers all the qualities of the five-door model, including continuation of the dynamic exterior design, infotainment systems and air conditioning controls seamlessly integrated into the overall look, excellent ergonomics as well as high-quality materials and surfaces.
The same as for the sedan, there are five model lines available: Essentia, Enjoy, Elegance, Sport and Cosmo. Each line has its own individual character and all stand out with visual and functional details (see detailed overview at the end of this section).
The entry-level Astra station wagon already boasts all the major comfort features and is equipped with the extensive SAFETEC safety system (see ?Safety? section). Equipment features include:

*Storage pockets on all four doors
*Height and reach-adjustable steering column
*Height-adjustable driver?s seat
*Power windows in front with one-touch function and anti-trap protection
*Follow-me-home lighting function
*Cruise control
*Remote-controlled central locking from both ignition keys

The Astra Enjoy station wagon offers three interior trim colors (red, blue, anthracite) to satisfy customers? individual wishes. Other features increase versatility and convenience: a rear seat back that can be folded forward in a 40:20:40 split, an additional 12-volt socket, the FlexOrganizer side rails and luggage compartment cover with a convenient automatic opening mechanism ? both of which are also available in all other equipment variants beyond the Enjoy. In addition there are two reading lamps both in front and rear, the ?Seat Comfort 1? package (including seat back angle adjustment and an adjustable lumbar support for the driver) and pockets on the front seat backs.
The Astra station wagon Elegance offers customers classic colors and high-quality materials. The Elegance model comes with 16-inch alloy wheels in 10-spoke design, a rain sensor for the windshield wipers, a compartment for glasses in the roof lining, and the ?Visibility? package (ALC automatic low-beam headlamps, electro-chromatic rear-view mirror, automatically controlled center console illumination). The ?Seat Comfort 1? package and velour seat covers all around are also standard equipment.
The Astra station wagon Sport features enhanced driving dynamics that are accentuated by its look. Its powerful presence is highlighted by the IDS sport suspension, which lowers the body by about 15 millimeters, aluminum sport pedals, 16-inch alloy wheels in a wide 5-spoke design and matt chrome décor applications in the interior.
The Astra station wagon Cosmo offers the most stylish driving experience. Chrome and leather dominate and intensify its distinctive lines. The driving enthusiast will appreciate the sport seats and 16-inch alloy wheels in 10-spoke design, as well as the standard ?Visibility? package.

Individual and innovative: Broad range of high-value extras

The functions included in the model lines and a series of other extras are also available separately, or can be ordered combined in various equipment packages at considerable price advantages. These include:

*IDSPlus suspension system with Continuous Damping Control (CDC)
*IDS sport suspension
*TPMS tire pressure monitoring system including Graphic Info *Display and DDS tire pressure loss monitoring system
*AFL adaptive forward lighting including bi-xenon headlamps (high and low beams), automatic beam angle control, headlamp cleaning system and fog lights
*Trailer tow hitch (detachable) including trailer stability program
*Power exterior mirrors on both sides
*Acoustic parking pilot for rear
*On-board computer with Check Control System
*Power windows front and rear, with convenient remote-controlled opening and closing function
*Air conditioning or electronic climate control
*Leather upholstery and trim
*Panorama sliding sunroof with two glass panels, electrically operated
*Quickheat heating system
*Front passenger seat occupancy detector
*Sport seats in front

The latest-generation infotainment system introduced in the five-door sedan is also available in the Astra station wagon. It has a wide variety of functions that can be easily selected and operated thanks to its intuitive operating concept. There is a choice of seven audio and telematic units in double DIN format with digital sound processor, including units with digital radio, CD player with MP3, an integrated 6 x CD-changer and voice control for the telephone ? a uniquely comprehensive and sophisticated infotainment program. These units are simple to operate, with the turn-and-press knob conveniently located on the center console, control buttons on the multi-functional steering wheel and a high, centrally positioned information display optimally located for the driver to see easily, thus enabling him or her to concentrate fully on the traffic situation. The main functions such as navigation, audio, the on-board computer and the audio controls can be operated directly via four large function keys arranged around the central turn-and-press control.

Many of the systems also enable use of the expanded OnStar services such as off-board navigation, breakdown assistance with tele-diagnosis or the electronic logbook (e-logbook).

Chassis and powertrain

High-Tech Solutions for Top Driving Dynamics and Comprehensive Safety

*IDSPlus system with electronic damping control is unique in the compact class
*Fun to drive: Exceptional agility combined with easy-to-control roadholding
*Wide range: Nine diesel and gasoline engines from 80 to 200 hp
*Progress: TWINPORT and common-rail technology reduce fuel consumption

The third-generation Astra impresses not only with its expressive design but also with excellent driving dynamics. The new station wagon boasts these same qualities. With a longer wheelbase, it features the third-generation Astra´s innovative suspension technology and is available with the same powerful and economical engines as the five-door sedan. There are five gasoline and four common-rail diesel engines with power outputs from 80 to 200 hp to choose from. All of these engines belong to the ECOTEC family and comply with the Euro 4 emissions standard. The two most powerful diesel engines are available with an optional, maintenance-free diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, which requires no additives.
The new Astra station wagon´s IDS suspension (Interactive Driving System) is designed for exceptional agility and a high level of active safety. Major contributions are made by the ESPPlus Electronic Stability Program, the fuel-saving Electro Hydraulic Power Steering (EHPS), and the enhanced MacPherson front suspension with a hydro-formed subframe. This provides increased driving comfort thanks to decoupled support bearings and weight-dependent spring rates. The rear wheels are on an adapted torsion-beam axle of double-walled U-pattern section. This combines the advantages of conventional twist-beam rear axles such as minimum space requirement, low weight and high camber stiffness with the ability to adapt to the station wagon?s specific characteristics and requirements.

IDSPlus with CDC: Leading-edge driving dynamics, ride comfort and active safety

Based on the third-generation Astra?s standard IDS suspension, the adaptive IDSPlus system sets new standards in driving dynamics with its ideal balance of ride comfort and active safety. By networking the sensors and control units for all driving dynamics systems, Opel/GM?s engineers have for the first time been able to achieve integrated suspension control. The innovative networking of the various regulating units makes use of three CAN (Controller Area Network) bus systems, with a transmission rate of 500 kilobits per second. The active safety systems linked in this way include the ESPPlus Electronic Stability Program with ABS and Brake Assist as well as the CDC (Continuous Damping Control) system, which was available only in luxury and exclusive sports cars until now.
The CDC system consists of four shock absorbers controlled by solenoid valves, which precisely and continuously adjust the shock absorbers to ideally adapt to road conditions, vehicle movements and driving style. Such optimal damping control maintains the highest standard of driving comfort, enhances road grip in all driving situations and shortens braking distance. At the press of a button (SportSwitch), a sport mode can be selected that varies the shock absorber settings as well as steering and gas pedal response, and modifies the gear shift points on cars with automatic and Easytronic transmissions. ESPPlus can be deactivated by the driver.

Towing: New trailer stability program ensures steadiness

The new Astra station wagon is also an ideal towing vehicle, thanks to various extras: automatic leveling system, Hill Start Assist (HSA) and the innovative trailer stability program offered together with the detachable tow hitch. The trailer stability program prevents the car and trailer from yawing and is thus a valuable safety bonus. It is activated whenever the trailer plug is inserted into the 13-pin socket on the tow hitch and the ESPPlus system sensors detect that the trailer is causing a yaw movement. If the system detects that the programmed limit has been exceeded, the engine is throttled back instantly and the brakes applied, repeatedly if necessary, until car and trailer are stable again. The trailer stability program does not, however, intervene in drivers? actions, for instance during extreme or sudden steering when an avoidance maneuver is necessary.
High trailer loads of up to 1400 kilograms are another advantage of the new Astra station wagon. For special types of trailers with low aerodynamic drag, such as boat trailers or horseboxes, special permits to increase the trailer load to 1600 kg can be obtained.
GM/Opel engineers have also developed a number of functions that are of genuine benefit in everyday driving and increase active safety even further, including:

*Understeer Control Logic (UCL): If understeer occurs, speed is first reduced by closing the throttle and then by braking the front wheels. When the ESP control range is reached, braking pressure decreases at the outer front wheel and simultaneously increases at the inner rear wheel until the car is back on track again.
*Hill-Start-Assist (HSA): This system enables a comfortable start on uphill slopes, preventing the car from rolling backwards without requiring use of the handbrake. Brake pressure is maintained for 1.5 seconds after the brake pedal is released, giving the driver enough time to select a gear and accelerate. The brake pressure is released as soon as the car starts to move forward.
*Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS): This identifies deviations from the specified tire pressures with an accuracy of up to 0.1 bar by means of special wheel sensors; the DDS function is also integrated for the first time worldwide. The signals are sent to a central receiver in the passenger compartment and the pressure is shown on the computer display in the cockpit. The driver is warned if tire pressure drops 0.3 bar below a preset value.
*Deflation Detection System (DDS): Wheel speed sensors activate a warning lamp if tire pressure has been lost. The system detects loss of pressure when a tire?s rolling circumference decreases and causes its rpm to increase in relation to the other wheels. The warning signal is triggered when the pressure loss reaches about 30 percent. Since the DDS system does not require special tire sensors, it supplements the tire pressure control system, if, for example, winter tires without TPMS sensors are fitted.

Engine program: Broad range for driving fun, economy and ecology

The new Astra station wagon?s driving dynamics not only come from its chassis, but also from the most modern and varied program of engines and transmissions ever offered by Opel in the compact class. Engineers at the International Technical Development Center (ITDC) in Rüsselsheim ensured that the engines boast leading-edge technologies and dynamic driving performance, while keeping fuel consumption low and maintaining high standards of environmental compatibility.
Cars with the new 2.0-liter, 125 kW (170 hp) turbocharged gasoline engine and the 110 kW (150 hp) 1.9 CDTI diesel, also a brand-new engine, promise lots of driving fun. The top performer is an even more powerful 2.0-liter gasoline engine with 147 kW (200 hp). These three engines come standard with a new six-speed manual transmission. Other transmission options for the Astra station wagon are a manual five-speed gearbox, a four-speed automatic (with 1.8 ECOTEC) and the further enhanced ?Easytronic? automated manual transmission (with 1.6 TWINPORT ECOTEC).

Fuel savers: Innovative TWINPORT technology guarantees low gasoline consumption

The entry-level gasoline engine is the 1.4-liter four-cylinder unit with 66 kW (90 hp) and maximum torque of 125 Nm, which is generally combined with a five-speed manual transmission. The new engine features Opel?s innovative TWINPORT technology for four-valve gasoline units with displacements up to 1.6 liters. Thanks to variable intake control via a throttle valve built into one of the two inlet ports of each cylinder and high rates of exhaust gas recirculation, fuel consumption is reduced by up to ten percent in everyday driving. The performance data of the Astra station wagon 1.4 TWINPORT are: top speed 178 km/h, zero ? 100 km/h acceleration in 14.1 seconds and fuel consumption according to the MVEG of only 6.3 liters per 100 kilometers.
The 1.6-liter engine also uses the advanced TWINPORT intake system, and already proved its exceptionally low fuel consumption in the previous Astra models. With an average of 6.7 liters per 100 kilometers, the fuel economy of this 77 kW (105 hp) engine with a maximum torque of 150 Nm is equally impressive in the new Astra station wagon.
The same applies to its performance, with only 12.7 seconds needed to sprint from zero to 100 km/h, and a top speed of 185 km/h. This engine is combined with a five-speed manual transmission, but can also be ordered with Easytronic automated manual transmission. Easytronic features an additional Sport program with the shift points moved up to higher rpm at which greater power and dynamics are available.
The third gasoline engine is the 1.8-liter ECOTEC unit with 92 kW (125 hp), maximum torque of 170 Nm, and can be ordered with an optional four-speed automatic transmission. Its performance and consumption data are: 198 km/h top speed (188 km/h with automatic transmission), 10.9 seconds (automatic: 12.2 s) to accelerate from zero to 100 km/h, and fuel consumption of 7.8 liters per 100 kilometers (automatic: 8.2 l/100 km).

Top performers: Two turbocharged gasoline engines with six-speed transmissions

The two powerful 2.0-liter turbocharged engines make the new Astra station wagon a top performer on the road. The 125 kW (170 hp) version, with a maximum torque of 250 Nm, takes the new Astra station wagon up to 100 km/h from a standstill in 8.9 seconds, enables a top speed of 217 km/h and an average fuel consumption of 9.1 liters/100 km. The powerhouse is the top-of-the-range 147 kW (200 hp) engine, with a maximum torque of 262 Nm. It needs only 8.4 seconds from zero to 100 km/h, goes on to reach a top speed of 230 km/h and consumes only 9.4 liters of gasoline in the combined European test cycle.
Both the turbocharged engines are coupled with a six-speed manual transmission. The 170-hp version has a wider spread of gear ratios, with a sixth gear chosen for lower rpm and correspondingly reduced fuel consumption. In this case, top speed is reached in fifth gear. The 200-hp engine, on the other hand, has closer-ratio gears, with sixth gear lower so that maximum performance is available at high speeds.

State-of-the art: CDTI common-rail diesels with a wide selection of power outputs

The new Astra station wagon underlines the great strides powerful and economical turbo-diesel engines are making at Opel. There are four turbocharged, common-rail direct injection engines from the ECOTEC family to choose from, all in compliance with the Euro 4 emissions standard: two 1.7-liter CDTI units with 59 kW (80 hp) and 74 kW (100 hp), as well as two new 1.9-liter CDTI engines with power outputs of 88 kW (120 hp) and 110 kW (150 hp).
The entry-level diesel unit, featuring second-generation common-rail direct injection, delivers maximum torque of 170 Nm, and takes the station wagon up to a top speed of 168 km/h. Fuel consumption is only 4.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers. The more powerful 1.7 CDTI version has a variable turbocharger, develops a torque of 240 Nm and accelerates the Astra station wagon from zero to 100 km/h in 12.5 seconds. Its top speed is 180 km/h, and fuel consumption is only 5.0 liters per 100 kilometers. Both 1.7 CDTI engines come with a five-speed manual transmission and the 100 hp version can also be ordered with a six-speed manual gearbox.
The top performer in the diesel engine range for the new Astra station wagon is the newly developed 1.9 CDTI ECOTEC (120 or 150 hp), with a maximum torque of either 280 or 320 Nm. Thanks to its state-of-the-art multi-injection system it delivers high performance, low fuel consumption as well as exceptional driving dynamics and refinement. Both versions of the Astra station wagon 1.9 CDTI come standard with a six-speed gearbox. Top speed reaches 190 or 207 km/h and zero 100 km/h acceleration is at 10.8 or 9.2 seconds. For both versions, fuel consumption is only 5.9 liters of diesel per 100 kilometers.

Production and Quality

New Astra Generation: High Value, Reliable and Economical

*Modernized production facilities, extensive employee training
*Best value retention in the compact class
*Repair-friendly design, low insurance premiums

The new Opel Astra?s sales figures recall the successes enjoyed by previous models. Only five months after the five-door sedan was launched at the end of March, some 180,000 have been sold in Europe, including around 48,000 in Germany. In response to the high demand for the five-door model, production capacity will be increased by the end of this year from 200,000 to 230,000 units.
Even higher volume is anticipated in 2005, when the new Astra station wagon also has its first full year of sales. Opel expects that some 130,000 units of the new station wagon will then be sold throughout Europe. Including the sporty GTC three-door model that will be in showrooms in the spring of 2005, total Astra production in 2005 from the plants in Antwerp (Belgium), Bochum (Germany) and Ellesmere Port (England) is expected to reach up to half a million units. Production of the new Astra station wagon at the Bochum plant began on August 16, and at the Antwerp plant at the end of the month.
Opel has invested more than a billion Euros in modernizing the production facilities for the new Astra model family, effecting further improvements in quality management and providing the workforce with thorough training.
A series of quality initiatives in the manufacturing process ensures constant high product quality. To implement the ?zero defects? principle in Bochum, Antwerp and Ellesmere Port, ?andon? (light signal) systems have been installed at every workstation. They help to prevent defective parts from being manufactured, accepted or passed on. Every workstation is provided with an ?andon line? ? when pulled, an acoustic signal is sounded, upon which the team?s spokesperson or another team member is required to assist in eliminating whatever problem has occurred.
If this cannot be done within a set time, the production line is halted. Also included in the production lines are specific quality controls known as audits.

Astra drivers: Above-average satisfaction

The quality initiative undertaken in recent years continues with impressive progress, as confirmed by the good results achieved by various models in car magazines? tough long-term tests and the upward trend noticeable in market surveys such as the J.D. Power Quality Report. In the most recent issue of the German customer satisfaction survey, Opel scored a CSI (Customer Satisfaction Index) of 79.0 percent, which is clearly above the average of all brands. This result signifies an improvement of almost four percent compared to 2002, and the second-largest improvement on the entire automobile market. The previous Astra model generation has a CSI of 80.1 percent, making it the highest -ranking German compact class model.
The new Astra will further reinforce this upward trend, as it satisfies the highest quality, reliability and long-life standards ? factors that were given the utmost priority from the very start. For each development phase, ?quality gates? were defined as quality standards that had to be reached before moving on through the gate to the next stage in the development process. When the performance specification was drawn up for the new-generation Astra, the main objective was not to change something in every design area simply for the sake of change. The aim instead was to offer customers technical features they genuinely need. Intelligent use of existing and further optimized components was the policy adopted by the development teams, enabling them to offer cars to customers at attractive prices and with a consistent, high level of quality.
The engineers and designers paid particular attention to the car?s ?perceived quality?. In accordance with the principle ?first the material, then the design?, the materials to be used and the methods of joining components together were precisely determined. Only then did the designers finalize the details of their work. Areas of central importance, such as the instrument panel or frequently used switches, were given close attention. Standardized test procedures were applied to make sure that each item satisfies the highest standards in terms of both looks and feel. It is only when the look and feel match to create a uniform impression ? the ?feedback? principle ? that an authentic sense of quality is achieved.

Stable long-term value combined with low operating costs

Car buyers who already think about the resale price when ordering a new car are right on target with the Astra. It has the highest value retention in its class. The market survey company Eurotax Schwacke forecasts that the Astra five-door sedan in Germany will lose only 7050 Euros of its value after three years and a distance of 60,000 kilometers. This is on average a thousand Euro less than the drop in value incurred by its competitors.
The extensive galvanization of the body is not only an advantage when the car is resold. Lengthy service intervals and low maintenance volume contribute to minimizing the cost of ownership of the third Astra model generation. Inspections are due on all models only after up to two years or 30,000 (gasoline engine) or 50,000 (diesel engine) kilometers. The flexible service interval indicator takes individual driving styles into account and tells the driver precisely when the next service is due.
Many components such as the fuel filter on gasoline-engine cars, the belt drives to the auxiliaries or the battery, are entirely maintenance-free. The coolant, the refrigerant in the air conditioning and the transmission oils do not have to be renewed throughout the car?s life.
Sign of confidence: Opel offers a two-year manufacturer?s warranty on its new cars
Whereas many other German automobile manufacturers inform their customers that the dealer is liable for defects, Opel goes beyond this compulsory legal requirement and offers a two-year new-car manufacturer´s warranty. This is far from being an insignificant difference, since this legally required guarantee obliges the seller to answer only for defects the vehicle had right from the start. The customer must prove after six months that the vehicle already had the faults when purchased. The voluntary new car warranty from Opel, however, allows claims for free-of-charge repairs of any defects falling in the manufacturer?s area of responsibility. This is applicable regardless of when the problem occurs within the two-year warranty period. There is also a 12-year manufacturer´s anti-perforation warranty for the new Astra station wagon.

« Ultima modifica: Settembre 13, 2004, 08:55:05 am da alura »