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Striking-looking three-door model is third unique Astra version Up to 200 hp and innovative chassis technology for exciting driving World debut: Panorama windshield creates new sense of space
Dreitürer mit betont expressivem Auftritt |
GTC - The Most Exciting Opel Astra YetRüsselsheim. The new Opel Astra GTC makes its world premiere at the international Paris Motor Show (September 25 - October 10, 2004).
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OPEL-MODELS | OPEL
MODELLE | 
With its expressive, dynamic design, the Astra
GTC (Gran Turismo Compact) delivers what its name promises.
At the same time, the third unique model - after the five-door and station
wagon - in the new Astra generation is the most dramatic interpretation
of the Astra form language. The GTC’s look is accentuated by a panorama
windshield, which is making its own world premiere in the three-door model.
The glass sunroof extending to the B-pillar creates a whole new sense of
space and driving feeling. At market launch, the Astra GTC comes with a choice
of five gasoline and three CDTI common-rail diesel engines with power outputs
from 90 to 200 hp. All engines comply with the Euro 4 emissions standard.
Both 2.0-liter gasoline turbo engines as well as the 1.9 CDTI units with
120 and 150 hp promise exciting driving. A state-of-the-art maintenance-free
diesel particulate filter (DPF) is available for both 1.9 CDTI models. Technology
that is exclusive to Opel in the compact class further enhances the Astra’s
dynamics. This includes the adaptive, networked IDSPlus chassis
with electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC) and
the steering-linked AFL headlamps (Adaptive Forward
Lighting). A high level of active and passive safety is ensured by
the SAFETEC protection system, which was key in Euro NCAP awarding the five-door
Astra the maximum five star rating, also making the car the safest sedan
in its class. The three-door Astra was designed as a unique model based on
the technology and equipment of the other Astra variants. Hans Demant, Chairman
and Managing Director, Adam Opel AG and Vice President Engineering, GM Europe:
"We have given the Astra GTC a unique look without compromising Opel’s
customary everyday driveability. The three-door model addresses customers
who are looking for an expressive design and a car that is really fun to
drive."
Friedhelm Engler, Astra Chief Designer and
Director, Design Integration, GM Europe, adds: "We intensified the emotionality
of the GTC’s design compared to the other Astra models. The GTC has
a sleek design and represents the most dynamic expression of the Astra form
language. That is of course not achieved by simply reducing the number of
doors on an existing model." The Astra GTC (length/width incl. exterior
mirrors/height: 4288/2033/1413 millimeters) boasts striking design features
including sporty proportions with short overhangs, distinctive tail lights
and, particularly compared to the five-door model, even more pronounced tapering
of the front and rear. The characteristic arched sloping roof and the angular
rear side windows create a particularly taut profile. The wide, sculpted
shoulders accentuate the powerful shape of the body, which is around 15
millimeters lower than the five-door’s. The Astra GTC offers practically
the same space and everyday suitability as the five-door model. With a compact
rear that underlines its long, 2.61-meter wheelbase, the GTC offers the same
luggage compartment volume (380 liters) as the five-door Astra. The rear
seat backs can be folded down (standard 60:40 or optional 40:20:40 split)
for more flexible use of interior space. Even though the designers snugly
pulled in the side windows to give the body-shoulder more tightness, two
adults can comfortably travel in the rear.
The dynamics of the new Astra GTC’s looks
turn into action on the road, thanks to the IDS chassis (Interactive
Driving System) with ESPPlus, the optional
IDSPlus adaptive chassis system with electronic damping control
(CDC) and the networking of all electronic chassis systems. In addition,
the GTC driver can activate a sport set-up at the touch of a button (SportSwitch)
that regulates damper adjustment as well as accelerator-pedal and power steering
response. In conjunction with automatic and Easytronic transmissions, gear
shift points are modified for a sportier driving style. The Astra GTC is
manufactured in Antwerp, Belgium, where the five-door model and the station
wagon are also produced. Planned annual capacity for the three-door model
is around 70,000 units. Marketing experts in Rüsselsheim expect the
GTC to make up 15 to 20 percent of Astra registrations in Europe. The Astra
GTC goes on sale in spring 2005.
