2010 Opel Astra Preview

Opel will unveil the fourth generation Astra next year in March, most probably at the Geneva Motor Show. The car was already caught at testing, and is set to be sold all over the globe - it will be sold under the Opel, Vauxhall, Holden and Saturn logos.

With design inspired by the GTC Concept, the future Astra will feature a more "fresh" and aggressive look that will help it to easily compete with models like Volkswagen Golf VI and the new Ford Focus (European version).

Same front grille as in the newly-launched Insignia will also be used in the future Astra, but it will feature different headlights, easily inspired by the concept, in order to ensure the car’s individuality.

As rumors say, the 2010 Astra will be built on GM’s Delta global small-car platform, same that will be used for the future Saab 9-1. Under the hood the company will keep the same engine line-up: different headlights, but a hybrid version is also expected.

Opel will also work on a VXR version of the 2010 Astra. The vehicle is going to be powered by a new 1.8 liter engine capable to develop 240 hp. The sprint from 0 to 60 mph will be made in less than 6 seconds while the top speed will be somewhere around 155 mph.

The 2010 Astra will be offered as a three and five door hatchback, an estate version (Caravan), a convertible version (Twin Top) and also a three-doors GTC. All this will be available after the five-doors version will make its official debut.

The production of the 2010 Astra will be moved from the Antwerp plant, Belgium, to Swedish Saab unit, Trollhattan. Reason: better productivity and 25% less production costs.