All-new 2022 Opel Astra Hybrid unveiled in two performance levels

The all-new 2022 Opel Astra is among the first models to get the brand’s evolved design philosophy, which will be further shared with forthcoming Opels. The sixth-generation model of the Opel Astra becomes the first to get a plug-in hybrid powertrain, and in two levels. It sits on the latest version of the EMP2 multi-energy platform, the torsional rigidity of which is claimed to be 14 per cent higher than that of the previous iteration.

A new Blitz is born with the all new Opel Astra! The new Astra heads on to a new era with sensational design and class-leading technology with new hybrid powertrains. The Astra showcases utmost precision in its attention to detailing. We, at Opel, are confident that the next generation Astra is blessed with all the right ingredients required to be a best seller and lure new buyers to the brand.

Michael Lohscheller, CEO, Opel

2022 Opel Astra Exterior

The face of the 2022 Opel Astra is the latest interpretation of the Opel Vizor front fascia concept, which was first seen on the new Mokka and will be present and evolve in all future Opel models.

Opel Astra front three quarter
The face of the 2022 Opel Astra is the latest interpretation of the Opel Vizor front fascia concept. Image courtesy: Opel.

The car features slim IntelliLux LED headlamps, including dual LED projectors and inverted-L shaped daytime running lamps – something which was seen on the one-off Manta GSe Elektromod as well. The new Astra comes with its nameplate placed centrally on its sharp-looking tailgate.

Other highlights of the new Astra include blacked-out rearview mirrors, headlamp surround and A-pillar, the last one of which helps in giving it a floating roof effect.

Interior

On the inside, the new Opel Astra will come with the next generation Pure Panel digital cockpit, which has been designed consistent with the Opel Vizor and was first made available in the Mokka.

Opel Astra interior
The new Opel Astra will come with the next generation Pure Panel digital cockpit. Image courtesy: Opel.

The Pure Panel digital cockpit features two 10-inch widescreen displays, which will show information in a horizontal theme. While the screen behind the steering serves as the fully digital instrument console, the second screen facing towards the driver acts as the main infotainment system which comes with wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto as standard.

Below this screen are placed piano-key like controls for other functions, including that of automatic climate control. The new steering wheel is a three-spoke unit, which comes with piano black touches.

The cabin has also been bestowed with new sporty AGR seats, which sit 12 mm lower than the seats in the erstwhile model. These seats offer a wide range of optional adjustments, and are also available with ventilation (for front), massage (for driver) and heating (both front and rear), as well as both Nappa leather and Alcantara trim options.

Specifications

The new Astra, in its plug-in hybrid guise, will be available in two different performance levels, and in its most powerful version, it has a combined power output of up to 225 hp. An 8-speed automatic transmission has been made available as standard in the hybrid variants.

Opel hasn’t detailed the powertrains but Autocar UK had reported that the plug-in hybrid variant of the new Astra would wear the VXR badge (as a Vauxhall model) and would come in the powerful all-wheel-drive version producing 296 hp (220.7 kW). This version would be the 2022 Opel Astra OPC in Europe. A standard front-wheel-drive model would also be on offer, as per Autocar UK, to address buyers with a lower budget.

Opel Astra rear three quarter
In its most powerful version. the maximum power output of Opel Astra is rated at 225 bhp. Image courtesy: Opel.

In terms of dimensions, the new Opel Astra has seen a growth of 4 mm in its length and 13 mm in its wheelbase, thus a bigger car than the outgoing model.

2022 Opel AstraDimensions
Length4,374 mm
Width1,860 mm
Wheelbase2,675 mm
Boot space422 liters

Safety

The new Opel Astra has been equipped with a new set of automated driver assistance systems, which use four body cameras, five radar sensors and two ultrasonic sensors. All these cameras and sensors work in sync with the e-horizon connectivity in Intelli-Drive 2.0, which helps in enhancing the range of these cameras and sensors.

The driver assistance systems available in the new Opel Astra are rear cross traffic alert, active lane positioning, long-range blind spot detection, adaptive cruise control with stop and go function, head-up display.

2022 Opel Astra development

Prototype vehicles of the new Opel Astra were taken to Swedish Lapland in the Arctic circle, where the vehicle’s performance, including the HVAC system, was gauged in extreme climatic conditions, with temperatures as low as -30 degree Celcius.

In addition, the car has also undergone runs at the Dudenhofen test center and validation on public roads in the Rhine-Main region, along with a final test at Opel’s EMC laboratory at Russelsheim. While the tests in the Arctic circle determined Astra’s warm-up behaviour in some of the coldest conditions in the world, the tests conducted at the Dudenhofen centre were on the comfort and safety of the vehicle.

Opel Astra comfort testing
The new Astra’s Adaptive Cruise Control and Emergency Braking, Rear Cross Traffic Assist, and Forward Collision Alert were tested at the Dudenhofen center. Image Courtesy: Opel

Production & Launch

Currently, the new Opel Astra has been introduced only as a five-door hatchback. Opel will start taking the orders for the new Astra in this autumn, with the commencement of deliveries to take place by early 2022.

The new Astra has been designed and engineered at Russelsheim, Germany, and will enter production at the Russelsheim plant this year. The car will compete with the Renault Megane and the VW Golf.

2022 Opel Astra FAQs

When will the new Opel Astra Hybrid be launched?

Bookings of the new Astra will start in autumn 2021, with the deliveries to begin by early 2022.

What are the key rivals of Opel Astra Hybrid?

The new Astra Hybrid will take on cars like VW Golf eHybrid and Renault Megane Hybrid.

What is the maximum power output of Opel Astra Hybrid?

The new Astra Hybrid will be offered in two performance levels, with maximum power output available up to 225 hp.

Featured Image: Opel