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Stylish, Purposeful Interior

Compared to its competitors, the Astra GTC does not compromise on functionality despite its coupé-like design. It does not only accommodate five persons in its cockpit, its flexible luggage compartment also provides 370 to 1,235 liters of space - over 200 liters more than the competition. The storage volume in the cockpit has been improved by 50% over the previous generation GTC, also thanks to the electric park brake that frees up space in the center console - exactly where storage is the most accessible.

The design of the Astra GTC high quality cockpit combines sculptured shapes and dynamic lines, and its distinct sporty character is enhanced by new fabrics, colors and decors on both the Enjoy and Sport executions. New premium leather trims mixing Alcantara and Nappa applications are available. The standard sport steering wheel with enhanced grips also highlights the GTC's exciting character.

To fit all kinds of drivers, the front seats in the Astra GTC offer the widest range of adjustments in the segment. Ergonomically enhanced front seats with eight-way adjustments, four-way lumbar and upper leg extension, certified by the independent back health experts from the AGR organization (Aktion Gesunder Rücken - Action for Healthy Backs) are an accessible option with prices starting at 390 EUR.

Four Engines Available

The Astra GTC can be ordered immediately with a choice of four powertrains - one diesel and three gasoline units.

The upgraded 2.0 CDTI common-rail turbo diesel engine with output raised to 165 hp is fitted with a diesel particulate filter and a six-speed manual transmission. Opel's new Start/Stop technology which reduces fuel consumption in urban stop and go traffic is standard equipment. The 2.0 CDTI combines excellent performance with high efficiency. It delivers up to 280 lb-ft (380 Nm) of torque thanks to an overboost function and allows the Astra GTC to reach 60 mph in 8.7 seconds. Top speed is 130 mph (210 km/h). The combined fuel consumption does not exceed 4.9 liters of diesel per 100 km and CO2 emissions are 129 g/km. With its 56-liter fuel tank, the Astra GTC 2.0 CDTI can cover over 680 miles (1,100 km).

Start/Stop is also standard with the two 1.4 turbo-compressed gasoline engines with 120 hp and 140 hp outputs. Both have a six-speed manual gearbox, deliver 147 lb-ft (200 Nm) of torque and require 5.9 liters of fuel per 100 km (139 g/km CO2). The gasoline offer is currently topped by the 180 hp 1.6 turbo with six-speed manual transmission, which has a top speed of 137 mph (220 km/h).

More powertrains will be offered around the world premiere at the Frankfurt Motor Show. The sportiest versions including the future high-performance OPC will follow in 2012.

Innovative Technologies

Whatever the engine, driving an Astra GTC is a rewarding experience thanks to its outstanding chassis. Fun - as well as safety - can be enhanced by a host of innovative systems.

The second-generation Opel Eye front camera system benefits from improved and extended functionalities. The Traffic Sign Recognition (TSR) can identify more signs than before and the information it provides is supplemented by input from the navigation system. In addition to the familiar Lane Departure Warning (LDW), the camera now also supports a new Following Distance Indication function (FDI) that visually informs the driver about the distance to the vehicle ahead.

The new, fourth-generation Bi-Xenon Advanced Forward Lighting (AFL 4) makes its debut in the Astra GTC. In addition to the nine functions from AFL+ - which include a High Beam Assist that switches the high beams on and off depending on the presence of other vehicles - it can be enhanced with an Intelligent Light Ranging system (ILR) that uses the front camera from the Opel Eye to measure the distance from the vehicle ahead and adjust the headlamp low beam pattern. This allows it to continuously optimize roadway illumination without blinding. With these ten functions, the Astra GTC features the best lighting package in the segment.

Four powertrains and two trim levels can be ordered across Europe as of June 7, 2011. Prices so far range from 21,750 EUR (Astra GTC Enjoy 1.4 Turbo 120 hp) to 27,855 EUR (Astra GTC Sport 2.0 CDTI 121 165 hp).

Opel Astra GTC: Photo Gallery, Review (1/2) and Specifications