308 and chassis are the same Vogsol (Opel) Astra test drive to the 8th generation Renewal Part 2

Easy-to-use, modern interior

Vogsol (Opel) Astra 1.2T 130 GS line (UK specification)

The remodeled Vogzor (Opel) Astra. The display contents of the instrument panel can be changed to some extent by the driver. The layout switching is not flexible and the information that can be selected is limited, but the monitor itself is clear and has excellent readability. [Photo] Model change Opel Astra Compared to the hatchback that is a rival in Europe (104 sheets) The head-up display, which can be added as an option other than the advanced grade, may be a little brighter. I felt it was a little hard to see in fine weather like wearing sunglasses. Shortcut keys for menus are lined up in the center of the dashboard, below the infotainment monitor, which is convenient. I haven't forgotten the hard buttons that can actually be pressed for the air conditioner. Opel salespeople may emphasize that the interior has been modernized and made simple. However, please be assured that the ease of use remains. There are two types of Astra that I tested this time: a 130ps 1.2L 3-cylinder gasoline turbo and a 180ps plug-in hybrid (PHEV). It was the former who held the steering wheel for a long time. The trim grade is the GS line in the middle. It's an Astra with upgraded in-car equipment and comfortable seats. The interior is also colorfully coordinated. The UK price is just below £ 27,000. It may be expensive to expect from Opel's Astra. In the case of PHEV, it will be about 4000 pounds (about 620,000 yen) higher. According to Opel, many users will pay for cheaper premiums and savings on energy costs. In fact, it seems that the percentage of PHEVs selected is quite high.

Definitely better maneuverability than its predecessor

Vogsol (Opel) Astra 1.2T 130 GS line (UK specification)

When I drive the new Astra, it runs very quietly and smoothly even with a 1.2L 3-cylinder gasoline turbo. Even in the low speed range, it firmly blocks the input from the road surface and is as gentle as solid rubber. Efforts during development are well represented. Even if the speed is increased, the maneuverability is moderately tight. Even if you attack a corner, the lateral attitude control is a good impression, and the grip power is not lost. The steering wheel is a little lighter, but the front nose response is consistent. I felt that I could operate it accurately regardless of the speed range. It's not an agile hatchback with sharp handling. Still, there is no doubt that it is more manoeuvrable than its predecessor. The spring rate of the suspension has increased, but I didn't suffer from unpleasant vibrations. The advantages of the new chassis were also shining in the PHEV Astra. It is equipped with an intelligent powertrain that smoothly switches between the gasoline engine and the drive motor, providing a high-quality driving comfort. The mileage with the drive battery is 59km according to the catalog value. In the middle of winter when the temperature drops, about 40km seems to be a realistic distance. Power performance is strong. Although the engine noise is noticeable when you take it seriously, PHEVs are also more powerful than necessary in everyday driving environments.