In recent times we have been able to see how the car upgrades are a bit more watered down than before It has been normalized to make generational changes that are limited to a slight aesthetic facelift, a little more technology and a mechanical range that introduces electrification to a greater or lesser extent. So it is unusual to see changes as notable as the one that the Vauxhall Astra with its latest generation, which we had the opportunity to test recently.
It must be said that this is the first that has been made entirely by Stellantis. Until now, the previous base that came from the General Motors era had been maintained and in the sixth generation of the Opel Astra the EMP2 platform was adopted. It is the same that we have seen in models such as the Peugeot 308 or the DS 4 and represents a paradigm shift. Therefore, we are facing a specimen that does not have a simple facelift, but a remarkable generational change that makes us Let’s ask if it is the best in its history.
Aesthetics has always been relative and we cannot say if it is prettier or uglier than the previous ones because everyone will have their opinion. What is clear is that the brand design language of lightning, following in the footsteps of others models like the Opel Mokka or the Grandland. The same happens at the technological level, since it is the most digital yet with the Opel Pure Panel and the double screen (12-inch instrumentation and 10-inch touch screen).
The quality leaves us lights and shadows, there are very good materials and others like Piano Black that are not convincing and that make us think of past times. However, the Opel Astra has noticeably improved in terms of available space. The rear seats are in the average of the C segment and its trunk grows to 422 liters, although it will be somewhat less in the plug-in hybrid versions.
Because it should be noted that the last Astra comes with electrification, by having two plug-in hybrid variants, with 180 or 225 CV, which are bearers of the DGT ZERO label. There are also conventional versions like the one we tested and, in general, it leaves a good taste in the mouth due to the tuning of the chassis. So is it the best Astra ever? It’s hard to answer, but of course yes it is the most complete till the date.