Perfect example of German refinement
Opels are perhaps the most underrated cars on the SA market. It’s one of the oldest car brands in the world, and over a 100 years of engineering expertise makes these cars some of the best to drive.
In general, Opels’ build quality is above that of your average Japanese or American car and compares well with Volkswagen.
The Astra 1.4 T is a prime example. Perhaps it is slightly reserved as far as styling goes, but it’s a classic, with a timeless look and the hatch’s overall dimensions are well balanced.
The headlight design hugs the front side of the car and flows seamlessly into the subtly chromed grille.
Add this to the Astra’s lower roof and it creates a snug, purposeful stance.
Interior
Get into the car and the German connection becomes more obvious with quality materials right through the cabin.
As far as fit and finish go, the Astra is on par with the best from big sellers such as the Golf.
The layout is clean and uncluttered with an easy-to-use and driverfocused centre console and instrument panel.
The touch screen infotainment system is very easy to use and carto-phone Bluetooth connectivity happens in a flash.
Opel’s Navi 900 IntelliLink (optional on all Sports derivatives) works in conjunction with Opel Eye and displays accurate GPS tracking on the 8-inch screen.
The features on this technology can be voice operated.
Just below the touch screen is a handy phone pocket, which can hold any size smart phone while on the go.
Smooth on the road
The Astra’s 1.4 turbo-charged plant delivers 110kW and 230Nm, and in this case, through a sleek six-speed manual.
Output figures are the same as that of the Audi A3 1.4 TFSI, but compared to its German cousin, the Opel feels a bit more reserved in the way it puts it down on the tar.
This might be due to flatter torque curve.
But still, the Astra 1.4 Turbo Sport is no slouch and when you put your foot down stuff happens quickly, and that smooth six-speed manual box adds a lot of pleasure to the overall driving experience.
The suspension is another plus point. It is quite stiff, which enables fast cornering but not overly hard to the point of being uncomfortable.
Features and tech
The Opel Astra 1.4T Sport is loaded with technologies and the main aim of this is to improve the safety of its occupants, as well as other road users.
The Lane Departure Warning with Lane Keep Assist, to begin with, will warn you when you are veering out of your lane and will autonomously bring the Astra back if you cross lanes.
It can be activated and deactivated by pressing a clearly marked button behind the gear lever.
It’s strange at first – the car steering for you – but you get used to it.
Another piece of tech is the Opel Eye.
This camera, found at the front of the car, scans the road ahead and takes the necessary precaution in a range of circumstances.
It reads the road signs – like speed zones and upcoming national roads – and projects them to the driver.
It also measures the distance between you and the car in front and will carry out an emergency brake if it senses an accident.
Plus, it alerts the driver of any and all impending dangers.
Verdict
Decades of experience in car building clearly show in the Astra 1.4 Turbo Sport.
The drivetrain’s refinement is typically German and borders on premium quality.
As far as fit, finish and technology are concerned, this Opel ticks all the right boxes and is definitely worth looking into when shopping around for a new C-segment hatch.
Visit one of the Provincial Motors branches in Zululand to test drive the Astra and see for yourself.