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On the buttons, get set, go!
Review of the Opel Astra GTC 1.6 CDTI
What really lightens up a rainy afternoon in Rüsselsheim? Right, a ride test with the Opel Astra 1.6 CDTI. After six hours drive in Opel Adam Rocks in the holy halls of Rüsselsheim my old bones need urgently a change of scenery. What could be better than driving home in a comfortable coupé? Road Trip! If it is also one of the most fuel-efficient diesel on the market, even laughs the wallet. Of the Opel Astra GTC is a few inches wider and ducks flatter on significantly larger wheels on the road, which is particularly noticeable at the entrance. Then you are literally behind the wheel. Cozy, but not quite "suitable for driving". Thanks to the different setting options, the right driving position is quickly found. The seats give good lateral support, which increases comfort especially on longer trips. However, there is still room for improvement in the cockpit design. In the rear it is comparatively close - and that, although the Astra with 4,42 meters length belongs to the longest compact models on the market. And the view to the rear is rather bad. Even a glance at the center console leaves a little bit desperate. Who came up with this smorgasbord of buttons? As a woman, you are quickly overwhelmed and even if I am technically well-versed and also like to push around on keys, I'm a little bit helpless in the sight of the inexhaustible number of the entire button. Even after a bit of experimenting, not all features were really catchy. Especially the operation of Navi and Co. remains difficult both when stationary and when driving.
But it is said: Better too much than too little. Especially as far as the driving assistants are concerned. With a 136 PS (100 kW) turbodiesel with 320 Newton meters of maximum torque you also need one or the other system that knows how to intervene. The four-cylinder comes from a new generation of 1,6-liter engines and replaced in the version with 110 PS (81 kW) the same strong 1,7-liter diesel. The whisper-diesel, which makes it from 10,2 to 0 km / h in just 100 seconds, makes a good figure on the long haul. According to the manufacturer, the Opel Astra GTC 1.6 consumes between 4,3 and 4,2 liters. In our test, we did not quite come to the result, however, the chic coupe is combined with only 6,1 liter still one of the most fuel-efficient diesel. Especially in view of the fact that it used to be said that diesel is not good for city traffic. However, with start-stop system and the generally low consumption of the Opel Astra GTC knows how to convince here.
Pronounced protector instinct
In addition to fuel economy, the Opel Astra also shows its protector side. All assistance systems are set to go now and support the driver in every imaginable situation. Sometimes almost too much. Especially the traffic sign help exaggerates it, because it senses lit up all 50 meters as soon as a new sign on the road emerges and covers the other displays such as the digital for speed and fuel consumption. A quick click on the Clear button provides a remedy, it is still irritating. Especially if the message "80" appears in an 30 zone. Also, when parking some help is important, but not when it beeps on every corner and edge, even when slowly approaching the front man, who stands at a traffic light. Luckily, you can just turn off some systems.
The engine encourages a relaxed driving style, which is underlined by the balanced suspension and the smooth but precise steering. In sports mode directly turns on sporty-red Ambi-Light and one notices the tighter chassis immediately. The changes in the six-speed box work well and steering and throttle response are more direct. Hello, fun button. The Opel Astra GTC literally drifts through corners, does not tug in the steering and leaves its default course only if you really want it. Our tour back to the Hanseatic city drives us through various weather zones and here, the Opel Astra drives sovereign and calm despite snow and ice or rainy road. The automatic wiper system ensures reliable visibility and the steering wheel heating for warm fingers. You can not travel better. The practical storage areas and, in particular, the small secret compartment in the center console provide additional comfort. Perfect for the vehicle letter or other little things that should not lie around freely.
And finally ...
Economical and quick comes the Opel Astra GTC 1.6 CDTI therefore. But what should make it particularly attractive is its price. Compared to its German competitors, you can get a sensible car that is very suitable for everyday use and only lacks a few luxury options in terms of equipment from as little as 20.900 euros. These can be ordered optionally and individually, although you should carefully consider which ones you want. You can certainly do without one or the other extra, because the Opel Astra GTC has enough to offer to combine excellent driving comfort and fun. And when your wallet can breathe easy, it's not just the Opel Astra that really gets going.
Driving Report: Simone Amores Pictures: Simone Amores / Opel
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