General Motors South Africa (GMSA) has announced a series of stylistic and specification-based changes, as well as more aggressive pricing, for the 2013 Opel Astra hatchback to give it an edge in the fiercely contested C-segment.
Among the cosmetic changes are a revised grille with repositioned Opel badge, a redesigned front bumper and updates to the indicators and foglamps. The rear aspect takes in revisions to the chrome garnish and bumper. Along with mildly revised alloy wheels across the range, the 2013 Opel Astra also features a host of new cabin trim elements to brighten up the interior.
The model realignment involves the replacement of the Astra 1,4T Enjoy Plus with the R248 000 Astra 1,4T Essentia Plus. This model still features the Enjoy Plus turbocharged 1,4-litre engine, which develops 103 kW and 200 N.m of torque, but ushers in what were previously non-Essentia standard items such as cruise control, electric rear windows and curtain airbags.
The Astra 1,6 Essentia undergoes a price drop of 1,8 per cent; from R235 200 to R231 000. Among this model’s standard features are; electric mirrors, ABS with EBD, ESP, dual front airbags and 17-inch alloy wheels.
Next up is the R257 000 Astra 1,4T Enjoy with specification beefed up to include auto headlamps/wipers and auto dimming rear view mirror. Other standard items on this model include; front foglamps, radio/CD audio system with USB and Bluetooth and leather-bound steering wheel.
The range-topping Astra 1,6T Sport undergoes a 1,1 per cent price reduction from R301 900 to R298 500. This model’s standard features include sports chassis, leather trim, dual-zone climate control, rear park assist, electronic parking brake with hill-hold and 18-inch alloy wheels.
All of the Astra models are covered by a 5 year/120 000 km warranty with Roadside Assistance and a 5 year/90 000km Service Plan.
