A deceptively different Astra

摘要

Since Opel unveiled the Astra in 1981 it has been a popular car, the current model clocking up European sales in excess of 750,000 units a year. Matthew Beecham reports on how its fourth generation will measure up. At first sight, the new Astra represents an evolutionary step forward rather than a clear break with the past. Yet on the road, three striking aspects are revealed, setting this new model poles apart from its average performing predecessors. First is its deft ability to suppress road and tyre noise across the entire range; second is its responsive handling, akin to that found in an expensive sports car rather than a family hatchback; and third is its composure over a variety of road surfaces.