Opel Debuts Astra Hatchback In Singapore

How times have changed - competition in the hatchback segment was so heated more than a decade ago, so much so that hot hatches like the 280bhp / 400Nm Opel Astra VXR lived in the shadows of kingpins like the Mk6 VW Golf GTI and R56 MINI Cooper S. Even when dialled down a notch, the Astra was no match for the “regular” German counterparts - perhaps marketing and COE premiums had votes swing against its favour.

But it’s a different ball game altogether now. Opel has launched the Astra hatch when manufacturers are rushing out fully-electric compacts in droves. BYD has just released the Dolphin, and it starts at S$156,888 - that’s as affordable as EVs could get for now. Ora’s Good Cat will also arrive not before long, and judging by response from neighbouring markets, these cars have already proven to be strong contenders to pull customers away from traditional ICE-powered compacts.

Based on first impressions, pricing the Astra at S$174,500 sounds like a tough ask. It’s S$24k more expensive than a top-spec 1.5-litre TSI Seat Ibiza, and a couple grand more than a mild hybrid-equipped 1.5-litre VW Golf. *Although the Ibiza competes with mini hatchbacks like the Mazda2 and VW Polo, we reckon it should tickle the fancy of potential Astra buyers due to its quirky, under-the-radar positioning. Let’s see what Opel has done to keep it competitive in this segment.

First up, buttons!

This might be the first Astra to feature a full digital cockpit (two 10-inch widescreen displays), but Opel was keen to emphasise that a “digital stress-free” ride for drivers and passengers will be maintained. We counted more than 15 individual physical buttons, and that can only mean a good thing in a period where some manufacturers seem almost too detached from the realities of driving - fiddling with swipe / touch-sensitive controls at speed is simply too dangerous!

It’s a handsome lil’ thing

We’ve seen this design deployed on the Mokka last year. And while the Astra can’t be opted in this striking green hue featured in the Mokka press car (the most striking colour out of 6 offered will be Amber Yellow, pictured), it doesn’t need punchy colours to elevate its appeal. From its wing-tip rear lights to sharp creases all around. It has a futuristic look without appearing overly offensive.

Space for days

It might not take up plenty of footprint on tarmac, but it has an interior that’s smartly packaged - rear seats are able to split in a 60/40 configuration. With seats folded up, it can swallow 422 litres of luggage (more than the Mk8 Golf and Seat Ibiza).

It’s got the basics right

We’ve counted no less than four times Opel mentioned “detox” in the press kit - visual detox stole most of the limelight. While it’s arguable what that exactly entails, we can’t disagree with their decision to include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. And these can be operated with actual buttons once connected. The best of both worlds couldn’t come soon enough.

*Vauxhall logo shown. Singapore units will feature the Opel logo.

Let’s talk numbers

Performance figures will not set your heart on fire, but rest assured that they are more than sufficient for daily use. 129bhp and 230Nm are competitive (pretty much the highest possible output for ICE-powered cars before breaching the Cat A COE 130bhp ceiling), and the 1.2-litre turbo engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic. 0-100km/h comes up in under 11 seconds, and if you’re easy on the pedal, more than 18km/l on the combined cycle is achievable.

You’re in safe hands

The new Astra incorporates the latest automated driver assistance systems. In addition to the Digital Panoramic Visual Assistance – a multifunction camera in the windscreen, the technology comprises four body cameras. Automated driver assistance systems also include Forward Collision Alert, which gives an audible and visible signal should you approach slower vehicles too fast. Low-speed collisions are also avoided through additional warnings provided in the driver’s field of view.

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