New Opel Astra OPC: yours for R435 000

General Motors South Africa has released pricing for the most powerful FWD model in its stable; the new Opel Astra OPC.

At R435 000 the OPC’s asking price is appreciably steeper than those of such powerhouse hatchback rivals as the Ford Focus ST in its top-tier ST3 specification (R353 700) and La Regie’s apex performance hatchback, the Renault Mégane 265 Red Bull Edition RB7 (R419 900).

Even so, it will be more comprehensively equipped than most of its rivals with such features as a dual-zone climate control, auto lights/wipers, a premium audio system, premium lighting pack and leather-trimmed sports seats with 18-way electrical adjustment that includes upper- and lower-bolster adjustment.

Power is provided by a four-cylinder turbopetrol engine that sends 206 kW and 400 N.m of torque to the front wheels via a six-speed manual gearbox. This unit propelled the OPC from standstill to 100 km/h in 6,72 seconds (claimed, 6,0 seconds) during recent CAR testing. The top speed is pegged at 250 km/h.

Opel has gone to great lengths to eliminate the vicious torque steer by which its previous OPC models were afflicted. To this end, the new Astra OPC has been outfitted with a raft of driver aids such as a limited-slip diff, FlexRide adjustable chassis system, HiPerStruts high performance struts and Brembo brakes.

Keep your eyes peeled for Sudhir Matai’s imminent driving impression of the Opel Astra OPC on CARmag.co.za

See the Astra OPC in action during the CARshootout on these videos…