Opel is launching the ultimate Astra at the Geneva auto show, the Astra OPC. OPC stands for “Opel Performance Center.” U.K.-market models, which will be sold as Vauxhalls, will swap OPC with the VXR moniker.
As we predicted earlier, the top Astra will be powered by a version of GM’s 2.0-liter direct-injection, turbocharged Ecotec engine; in this application it produces 276 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque, and top speed is governed at 155 mph. The power is channeled to the front wheels through a six-speed manual transmission.
Opel is disclosing further details on the chassis. It uses GM’s HiPer Strut front suspension—which decouples the steering from wheel motion—and a torsion-beam axle with a Watt’s linkage in the rear. A “FlexRide” electronic damper-control system is standard, and here features a specific OPC setting.
The Astra OPC comes with lightweight seats, but it will be an altogether heavy vehicle. It will crown a family of Astra GTC three-doors with gasoline engines from 99 hp and up (that’s Fiero territory, but with significantly more weight to contend with), and diesel engines ranging in output from 110 hp to 165 hp.
Will it come to the U.S.? We hear from within GM that the Astra GTC could be launched as a Buick here—it is, after all, essentially a two-door Verano. The OPC/VXR version (Buick likely would call it a GS, a moniker that has a proud history at Opel as well) would make it truly appealing. Let’s hope GM learns from the experience with the Saturn Astra, which was an utterly joyless car thanks to its basic trim and engine.
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