Overview

Released in February 2013, the Opel Insignia OPC was a mid-size, performance sedan. Manufactured in Russelsheim, Germany, the all-wheel drive Insignia OPC was powered by a 2.8-litre turbocharged V6 petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.

LP9 engine

The 2.8-litre LP9 V6 petrol engine had an aluminium block and heads, a twin-scroll MHI turbocharger with maximum boost pressure of 0.9 bar, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve control and a compression ratio of 9.5:1. Furthermore, the engine required 98 RON premium unleaded petrol and the Insignia OPC could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 6.3 seconds.

Dimensions and suspension

The Insignia OPC was 4830 mm long, 2084 mm wide, 1498 mm tall and had a 2737 mm long wheelbase. Like the Mk.4 Astra OPC , the Insignia OPC was also fitted with:

• Opel’s HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) front suspension which had reduced kingpin inclination and a shorter spindle length. As a result, there was less camber loss while cornering, thereby reducing torque steer reactions and improving traction; and,
• Adaptive FlexRide suspension which automatically adjusted damping to the prevailing driving conditions and enabled the driver to select from different drive modes (OPC, Sport and Normal).

All-wheel drive system

The Insignia OPC was fitted with a fourth-generation Haldex all-wheel drive system as per the Saab Mk.2 9-3 Turbo X . In normal conditions, the system provided a 90:10 front/rear torque split. As a pro-active all-wheel drive system, however, electronics could pre-tension the clutch and activate all-wheel drive before wheel slip occurred. Furthermore, the limited slip rear differential could transfer up to 40 per of the available torque between the rear wheels – to whichever wheel had more grip – in order to provide a yaw damping effect.

Safety equipment

Standard safety for the Insignia OPC included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with double pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Insignia OPC had 355 mm by 32 mm cross-drilled front brake discs with four-piston Brembo calipers.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Opel Insignia received a five star safety rating which included a 94 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 79 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, chest protection for the driver was rated as adequate and all other regions were rated as good, while maximum points were awarded n the side impact test. In the more severe pole test, protection of the chest was adequate while all other body regions were rated as good.

Under ANCAP’s methodology , the Insignia received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 35.16 out of 37.

Features: Opel Insignia OPC

Standard features for the Opel Insignia OPC included 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/40 R19 98Y HW4 Pirelli P Zero tyres, a seven speaker sound system with MP3-compatibility, a CD player, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod/SD card reader) and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice control, a satellite navigation system with a seven-inch colour display, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, Recaro front seats, Siena leather seat trim, an eight-way power adjustable driver’s seat (with memory settings), heated front seats, bi-xenon headlights with daytime LED running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, fornt and rear parking sensors, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, power folding mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a power-operated park brake, 12 volt power outlet, trip computer, an alarm and immobiliser.

RRelated links

• Wikipedia.org: Opel Insignia

Overview

Released in Australia in November 2013, the Opel ZJ Zafira was a seven-seat people mover. Manufactured in Bochum, Germany, the front-wheel drive Zafira was powered by 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel engines. Both engines were mated to six-speed automatic transmissions, while the turbo-diesel engine had a Start/Stop function which enabled it to shut down when the vehicle was stationary.

The ZJ Zafira was originally intended to be released by Opel Australia in August 2013. In August 2013, however, Opel terminated its Australian retail operations and the Zafira was sold through Holden dealerships.

Dimensions and interior

Based on General Motors’ Delta II platform (shared with the Mk.4 Astra ), the ZJ Zafira was 4656 mm long, 1928 mm wide (including mirrors), 1685 mm tall and had a 2760 mm long wheelbase.

Inside, the Zafira had a 2-3-2 seating configuration and Opel’s ‘Flex7’ seating system which was designed to provide maximum flexibility without removing any of the seats. As such, the second and third rows of seats could be folded flat into the floor and Opel’s ‘Lounge Seating’ system enabled the middle second row seat to be folded down and rotated to provide an armrest for outboard seats. The outer second row seats could also slide up to 280 mm backwards for additional leg room and 50 mm in-board for additional shoulder room.

Suspension

The Zafira Tourer had MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension with Watt’s linkages.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Zafira included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with double pretensioners and load limiters.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Zafira 2.0 CDTI received a five star safety rating which included a 94 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 83 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, protection of the driver’s head, thighs and feet was rated as good, with chest and lower leg protection assessed as adequate; front passenger protection, however, was good in all areas. Maximum points were awarded in the side impact test, though in the more severe pole test, chest protection was marginal.

Features

Standard features for the Zafira Tourer included 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/50 R17 94V tyres, a seven speaker sound system with a CD player, MP3-compatibility, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth connectivity with voice recognition, a satellite navigation system, power adjustable driver’s seat, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control (with speed limiter), daytime running lights, front and rear fog lights, front and rear parking sensors, a reversing camera, automatic headlights, split and folding second- and third-row seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, a power adjustable steering column (for height and reach), rear privacy glass, courtesy lamps, 12 volt power outlets, roof rails, a trip computer and an immobiliser.

The Zafira Luxury editions were further equipped with 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 94W tyres, leather seats, heated front seats, directional bi-xenon headlights with washers and high beam control and a power sunroof.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Opel Zafira Tourer C

Overview

Released in October 2012, the Opel Mk.4 Corsa was available as a light, three- or five-door hatchback. Manufactured in Eisenach, Germany, and Zaragoza, Spain, the front-wheel drive Corsa was powered by a 1.4-litre four-cylinder petrol engine and available in three editions: an unnamed, entry-level edition, Colour Edition and Enjoy. The full range is given in the table below.

Dimensions and suspension

Based on the SCCS platform co-developed by Fiat and Opel, the Mk.4 Corsa had MacPherson strut front suspension, torsion beam rear suspension and electric power steering. Furthermore, the Corsa was 3999 mm long, 1944 mm wide, 1488 mm tall and its wheelbase was 2511 mm long.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Opel Corsa included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with dual pretensioners and load limiters.

Euro NCAP crash testing

In Euro NCAP crash testing , a 2006 three-door Corsa hatchback received a five star adult occupant protection with a score of 33.7 out of 37. In the front offset crash test, protection for the driver’s head and chest were rated as adequate despite the dummy’s head bottoming-out the airbag and impacting the steering wheel); all other areas were rated as good. In the side impact and pole tests, maximum points were awarded.

Features

Standard features for the entry-level Corsa included 15-inch steel wheels, a seven speaker audio system with a CD player, MP3-compatility and an auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm), air conditioning, Reflexion/Elba cloth trim, daytime running lights, rear fog lights, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, remote central locking, power mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a 12 volt power outlet and an immobiliser. The entry-level Corsa was also equipped with a full-size steel spare wheel.

The Corsa Enjoy was further equipped with 16-inch alloy wheels, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front fog lights, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and trip computer. Unique within the range, the Enjoy editions had a ‘FlexFloor’ false load floor in the cargo area. Both the Enjoy and Colour Editions were fitted with temporary spare wheels.

Compared to the Enjoy edition, the Corsa Colour Edition was fitted with standard air conditioning, but added contoured front sports seats and Twist/Elba cloth trim. Unique visual cues for the Colour Edition included gloss black painted door mirrors and roof, dark bezel headlights and darkened tail-light lenses. Inside, the Colour Editions were distinguished by their piano black interior trim and sports alloy pedals.

2013 model year (‘MY13’) Corsa vehicles were also fitted with a USB port and DAB digital radio tuner.

Brochure

• Brochure: Opel Mk.4 Corsa (September 2012)

Related links

• Technical Data: Opel Mk.4 Corsa (July 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Opel Corsa D

Overview

Released in February 2013, the Opel Mk.4 Corsa OPC was a light, three-door hot hatch. The front-wheel drive Corsa OPC was powered by 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

Compared to the Mk.4 Corsa on which it was based, the Corsa OPC had a 15 mm lower chassis with a stronger rear axle beam, re-tuned springs and dampers and a stiffer front anti-roll bar. Visually, the Corsa OPC was differentiated by its distinctive gills, sculpted side sills, rear roof spoiler, rear diffuser with a central tailpipe and body-coloured mirrors. 

A16LER engine

The 1.6-litre A16LER turbocharged petrol engine had a cast-iron cylinder block, an aluminium head, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinder, variable intake and exhaust valve timing (Opel’s Double Continuous Variable Cam Phasing or DCVCP), variable intake valve geometry (‘TwinPort’) and a compression ratio of 8.8:1. As such, the Corsa OPC could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 7.2 seconds.

Dimensions and suspension

The Corsa OPC was 4040 mm long, 1924 mm wide, 1488 mm tall and had a 2511 mm long wheelbase; furthermore, the Corsa OPC had MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Corsa OPC included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with dual pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Corsa OPC had 308 mm internally ventilated front brake discs with Brembo calipers and 264 mm solid rear discs.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing, a 2006 three-door Corsa hatchback received a five star adult occupant protection with a score of 33.7 out of 37. In the front offset crash test, protection for the driver’s head and chest were rated as adequate despite the dummy’s head bottoming-out the airbag and impacting the steering wheel); all other areas were rated as good. In the side impact and pole tests, maximum points were awarded.

Features

Standard features for the Opel Corsa OPC included 17-inch alloy wheels with 215/45 R17 87V tyres, a seven speaker sound system with MP3-compatibility, a DAB+ tuner, CD player, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod) and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice control, Recaro front seats with four-way adjustment and integrated head restraints, climate control air conditioning, cruise control, front and rear fog lights, daytime running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and mirrors, a tilt adjustable steering wheel, rear privacy glass, a 12 volt power outlet, trip computer and an immobiliser.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Opel Corsa D

Overview

Released in October 2012, the Opel Insignia was available as a mid-size sedan or wagon (‘Sports Tourer’). Manufactured in Russelsheim, Germany, the front-wheel drive Insignia was available with 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection petrol and turbo-diesel engines (the 2.0 Turbo and 2.0 CDTi variants, respectively); a six-speed automatic transmission was fitted as standard. Furthermore, the Insignia range consisted of standard and better-equipped ‘Select’ editions.

Dimensions

The Insignia sedan was 4830 mm long, 2084 mm wide, 1498 mm tall and had a 2737 mm wheelbase. The Sports Tourer wagon was 78 mm taller (at 4908 mm) and 22 mm taller (1520 mm), though other dimensions were unchanged. Cargo capacity was 1030 litres for the Sports Tourer, though this increased to 1530 litres when the rear seats were folded down.

Suspension

The Insignia was based on General Motors’ Epsilon II platform which also underpinned the Holden Malibu . As such, the Insignia was fitted with MacPherson strut front suspension and multi-link rear suspension. While models with petrol engines had hydraulic power steering, the turbo-diesel models had electric power steering to minimise fuel consumption.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Opel Insignia included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control and front seatbelts with double pretensioners and load limiters. The standard Insignia was fitted with two-way active front seat head restraints, while Select editions were fitted with four-way active head restraints.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Insignia received a five star safety rating which included a 94 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 79 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the offset crash test, chest protection for the driver was rated as adequate and all other regions were rated as good, while maximum points were awarded n the side impact test. In the more severe pole test, protection of the chest was adequate while all other body regions were rated as good.

Under ANCAP’s methodology , the Insignia received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 35.16 out of 37.

Features

Standard features for the Opel Insignia included 17-inch alloy wheels with 225/55 R17 97W tyres, a seven speaker audio system with CD player, MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a six-way power adjustable driver’s seat, Siena leather trim, heated front seats, cruise control, front and rear fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, front and rear parking sensors, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, power-operated park brake, two 12 volt power outlets, a trip computer, an electrochromatic rear view mirror, alarm and immobiliser.

The Insignia Select was further equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/40 R19 98Y tyres and sports suspension, a premium audio system with SD card reader, satellite navigation with a seven-inch colour display, contoured front sports seats, a six-way power adjustable front passenger seat, perforated Sienta leather trim, ventilated front seats, bi-xenon headlights, headlight washers and piano black interior trim. Sedan models were also fitted with a rear lip spoiler. The xenon headlights also included an Adaptive Forward Lighting (‘AFL+’) system which automatically adapted to weather and driving conditions.

All Insignia models were fitted with a space-saver spare wheel.

Brochure

• Brochure: Opel Insignia (September 2012)

Related links

• Technical Data: Opel Insignia (July 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Opel Insignia

Overview

Released in October 2012, the Opel Mk.4 Astra GTC was a three-door hatchback. Manufactured in Gilwice, Poland, the Astra GTC and Astra GTC Sport were powered by 1.4- and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engines, respectively. The full Astra GTC range is given in the table below.

A14NET, A16LET and A16XHT engines

All Astra GTC engines had light cast iron blocks, aluminium cylinder heads, single-scroll turbochargers, double overhead camshafts, four valves per cylinders and variable intake and exhaust valve timing (Opel’s Double Continuous Variable Cam Phasing or DCVCP). However,

• The 1.4-litre A14NET engine had a compression ratio of 9.5:1, while this engine – when mated to six-speed manual transmissions – also had a Start/Stop function that enabled the engine to shut down when the vehicle was stationary in traffic;
• The 1.6-litre A16LET engine – available solely with six-speed manual transmissions – added variable intake valve geometry (Opel’s ‘TwinPort’) and had a compression ratio of 8.8:1; and,
• Available from July 2013, the 1.6-litre A16XHT engine – available solely with six-speed automatic transmissions – will have direct fuel injection (‘SIDI’) and a compression ratio of 10.5:1.

Dimensions

The Astra GTC was based on General Motors’ Delta II platform which also underpinned the Holden JG Cruze . Compared to the five-door Astra hatchback , the Astra GTC was 47 mm longer (at 4466 mm), 7 mm wider (2020 mm), 21 mm lower (1489 mm) and had a 10 mm longer wheelbase (2695 mm).

Suspension and steering

The Astra GTC had MacPherson strut-style front suspension with Opel’s HiPerStrut design which reduced the length of the spindle assembly by adding a second ball joint on top of the steering knuckle. As a result, the shorter spindle length reduced negative camber, providing greater traction and reducing torque steer. The second ball joint also de-couple the steering knuckle from the strut, helping isolate unwanted feedback from the road. At the rear, the Astra GTC had torsion beam suspension with Watt’s linkages.

To minimise fuel consumption, the Astra GTC had an electric power steering system.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Astra GTC included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with dual pretensioners and load limiters.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Astra GTC received a five star safety rating which included a 91 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 79 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the front offset test, protection of the driver’s chest was rated as adequate, while lower leg protection for both front occupants was also rated as adequate. In the side impact and pole tests, protection of the driver’s chest was rated as marginal.

Under ANCAP’s methodology , the Astra GTC received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 33.35 out of 37.

Features

Standard features for the Astra GTC included 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/50 R18 97V tyres, a seven speaker audio system with a CD player, MP3-compatiblity and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), air conditioning, cruise control, Imola/Morrocana premium cloth/leatherette trim, front and rear fog lights, daytime running lights, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel with audio controls, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a 12 volt power outlet, trip computer and an immobiliser. Both the GTC and GTC Sport were fitted with a space-saver spare wheel.

The Astra GTC Sport was further equipped with 19-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R19 95W tyres, a premium audio system with an SD card reader, satellite navigation with a seven-inch colour display (including 2D/3D mapping and voice guidance), dual-zone climate control air conditioning, a power adjustable driver’s seat, contoured front sports seats, Mondial leather trim, heated front seats, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a power-operated park brake and an electrochromatic rear view mirror.

Visually, the Astra GTC Sport could be identified by its sports bodykit, LED tail-lights and rear glass-mounted antenna. Inside, the Sport featured a front centre sliding armrest, sports alloy pedals and an OPC steering wheel and leather-covered gearshift knob.

Optional FlexRide adaptive suspension

The GTC Sport variant was available with an optional ‘FlexRide’ suspension system which continuously adapted to changes in driving style and cornering speed. The FlexRide system also had three selectable settings: Standard, Sport and Tour.

Related links

• Technical Data: Opel Mk.4 Astra GTC (July 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Opel Astra J

Overview

Released in February 2013, the Opel Mk.4 Astra OPC was a three-door, hot hatch. Manufactured in Gilwice, Poland, the front-wheel drive Astra OPC was powered by a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol engine that was mated to a six-speed manual transmission.

A20NFT engine

The 2.0-litre A20NFT petrol engine had a twin-scroll turbocharger (with maximum boost pressure of 1.5 bar), a forged steel crankshaft and connecting rods, high-pressure direct fuel injection, dual camshaft continuously variable valve timing, four valves per cylinder (with sodium-filled exhaust valves) and a compression ratio of 9.3:1. As such, the Astra OPC could accelerate from rest to 100 km/h in 6.0 seconds.

Dimensions and suspension

The Astra OPC was 4466 mm long, 2020 mm wide, 1489 mm tall and had a 2695 mm long wheelbase. Unike the standard Astra and Astra GTC , however, the Astra OPC was fitted with ‘HiPerStrut’ front suspension which, compared to conventional MacPherson struts, reduced kingpin inclination by 44 per cent and shortened spindle length (kingpin offset) by 46 per cent with a reduced lever arm. The reduced inclination of the kingpin resulted in less camber loss while cornering, thereby reducing torque steer reactions and improving traction. Furthermore, a Watt’s linkage was added to the rear axle and combined with a compound-crank axle; the linkage consisted of a short, pivoting centre link with a ball joint at each end to which the lateral links from the wheels were bolted. As a result, around 80 per cent of all lateral loads were absorbed by the rear suspension.

The Astra OPC was fitted with Opel’s adaptive ‘FlexRide’ chassis system which automatically adjusted damping to the prevailing driving conditions and enabled the driver to select from different drive modes. The Astra OPC also had a mechanical multi-plate limited slip front differential which provided a locking effect with a ramp angle of 45 degrees under acceleration and 90 degrees under deceleration.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Astra OPC included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with dual pretensioners and load limiters.

Brakes

The Astra OPC had 355 mm by 32 mm ventilated and cross-drilled front brake discs with four-piston Brembo calipers and 315 mm solid and cross-drilled rear discs.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the closely-related Astra GTC received a five star safety rating which included a 91 per cent adult occupant protection rating and a 79 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the front offset test, protection of the driver’s chest was rated as adequate, while lower leg protection for both front occupants was also rated as adequate. In the side impact and pole tests, protection of the driver’s chest was rated as marginal.

Under ANCAP’s methodology , the Astra GTC received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 33.35 out of 37.

Features: Opel Astra OPC

Standard features for the Opel Astra OPC included 19-inch alloy wheels with 245/40 ZR tyres, a seven speaker sound system with MP3-compatibility, CD player, auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod/SD card reader) and Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice control, a satellite navigation system with a seven-inch colour display, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, cruise control, Nappa leather seat trim, power adjustable and heated front seats, daytime running lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, rear parking sensors, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a power-operated park brake, 12 volt power outlet, trip computer and an immobiliser.

Related links

• Wikipedia.org: Opel Astra J

Overview

Released in October 2012, the Opel Mk.4 Astra was available as a five-door hatch or wagon (‘Sports Tourer’). The Astra was available with three engines: 1.4- and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engines (the 1.4 Turbo and 1.6 Turbo variants, respectively) and 2.0-litre turbo-diesel units (2.0 CDTI). Transmission choices consisted of six-speed manual and automatic transmissions, all of which had triple cone synchronisation for the first and second gears. Furthermore, models with turbo-diesel engines and manual transmissions also had a Start/Stop system which enabled the engine to shut down when the vehicle was stationary. The full range is given in the table below.

The Astra was based on General Motors’ Delta II platform which also underpinned the Holden JG Cruze . As such, the Astra had MacPherson strut front suspension and torsion beam rear suspension with Watt’s linkages. The Sport editions were available with an optional ‘FlexRide’ suspension system which continuously adapted to changes in driving style and cornering speed. The FlexRide system also had three selectable settings: Standard, Sport and Tour. To minimise fuel consumption, the Astra had an electric power steering system.

The Astra was 4419 mm long, 1814 mm wide, 1510 mm tall and had a 2685 mm wheelbase. The Sports Tourer, however, was 279 mm longer (at 4698 mm) and 25 mm taller (1535 mm), though other dimensions were unchanged. Cargo capacity for the Sports Tourer was 1000 litres, increasing to 1550 litres with the rear seats folded.

Safety equipment

Standard safety equipment for the Astra included dual front airbags, front side airbags, full-length curtain airbags, ABS, electronic brake force distribution, brake assist, electronic stability control, traction control, active front seat head restraints and front seatbelts with dual pretensioners and load limiters.

Euro NCAP testing

In Euro NCAP testing , the Astra received a five star safety rating which included a 95 per cent adult occupant protection rating and an 84 per cent child occupant protection rating. In the front offset crash test, protection of the driver’s chest and lower leg was adequate with all other body areas rated as good. In the side impact test, chest protection was rated as adequate and all other areas were rated as good. In the more severe pole test, chest protection was rated as marginal.

Under ANCAP’s methodology , the Astra received a five star adult occupant protection rating with a score of 35.02 out of 37.

Features

Standard features for the Opel Astra included 16-inch alloy wheels, a seven speaker audio system with CD player and MP3-compatibility and auxiliary inputs (3.5 mm/USB/iPod), air conditioning, cruise control, Silvanus/Atlantis cloth trim, daytime running lights, rear fog lights, 60/40 split and folding rear seats, steering wheel audio controls, Bluetooth mobile phone connectivity with voice control, remote central locking, power windows and heated mirrors, tilt and telescopic steering wheel adjustment, a 12 volt power outlet, trip computer and an immobiliser.

The Astra Select was further equipped with 17-inch alloy wheels, dual-zone climate control air conditioning, Ribbon/Morrocana premium cloth/leatherette trim, a power adjustable driver’s seat, front fog lights, automatic headlights, rain-sensing wipers, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a power-operated park brake. Select wagons also featured a ‘FlexFix’ power-operated rear seat release.

Beyond this, the Astra Sport added 18-inch alloy wheels with 235/45 R18 94W tyres, lowered suspension, a premium audio system with SD card reader, picture viewer and full-colour satellite navigation with seven-inch colour display (including 2D/3D mapping and voice guidance), contoured front sports seats, heated front seats, Mondial leather trim, piano black interior trim and a rear spoiler.

All Astra models were fitted with a space-saver spare wheel standard.

Brochure

• Brochure: Opel Mk.4 Astra (October 2012)

Related links

• Technical Data: Opel Mk.4 Astra (July 2012)
• Wikipedia.org: Opel Astra J

Recalls: Opel Insignia OPC

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Opel Insignia OPC

• In July 2014, a recall was issued for Opel Insignia vehicles that were manufactured from 14 December 2012 to 27 June 2013. In these vehicles, the owners’ manual did not contain some specific information required for Australia, such as child restraint loading precautions. To rectify this problem, Holden was to send owners an updated manual (via registered post). The recalled vehicles had VINs in the range W0LGS5ED0C1093505 to W0LGX5EG7D1118171 (PRA 2014/14209).

Problems and faults: Opel Insignia OPC

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

Steering wheel vibrations

For the Insignia OPC, brake pad material could be deposited unevenly on the surface of the brake discs, causing vibrations through the steering wheel when braking. In the UK, where the equivalent vehicle was sold as the Vauxhall Insignia VXR, Vauxhall undertook to replace the front brake pads and brake discs if the mileage was less than 20,000 miles (i.e. 32,000 kms).

Steering wheel noise

For the Vauxhall Insignia VXR, there have been reports of intermittent whining or groaning noises when the steering wheel is turned, generally during low-speed manoeuvres. There have been instances where replacement of the power steering pump, pipes and steering rack have fixed the problem and others where it has not. One owner has reported that the groaning noise was fixed when new steering arms and track rod ends were fitted. The cause of the noise has not been identified, although one theory is that it is attributable to the steering pipes ‘resonating’ as a result of fluid passing through them.

Headlights too high

For the Vauxhall Insignia VXR, there have been complaints that the headlights are set too high and can shine into the eyes of other drivers. The height of the headlights can be adjusted.

Recalls: Opel ZJ Zafira

Overview

Manufacturers, or importers, issue recalls for defects or faults which have the potential to cause injury. Generally, manufacturers will inform the original buyers if their vehicle is subject to a recall and of the steps required to remedy the defect or fault. Please note that the recalls below (if any) are for Australian-delivered vehicles only. Furthermore, the number of recalls should not be taken as an indication of a model’s reliability or its safety more generally.

Recalls: Opel ZJ Zafira

2012-13 Opel ZJ Zafira: owner’s manual omissions

In July 2014, a recall was issued for Opel Zafira vehicles that were manufactured from 14 December 2012 to 27 June 2013. In these vehicles, the owners’ manual did not contain some specific information required for Australia, such as child restraint loading precautions. To rectify this problem, Holden was to send owners an updated manual (via registered post). The recalled vehicles had VINs in the range W0LPE9EN6D2043436 to W0LPE9EZ1D2099724 (PRA 2014/14209).

2013 model year Opel Zafira: Takata airbag recall

In August 2018, a recall was issued for 2013 model year Opel Zafira vehicles. The Takata driver’s airbag in these vehicles contained propellant wafers that could absorb moisture over time. In the event of a collision which triggered the driver’s airbag, excessive internal pressure could cause the metal airbag inflator housing to explode. This, in turn, would cause the metal fragments to be projected through the airbag cushion and into the cabin – these fragments posed a serious risk of injury and fatality. For the VINs of the recalled vehicles, please see PRA 2018/16957.

Problems and faults: Opel ZJ Zafira

Overview

This section identifies potential problems, causes and fixes based on the experiences of owners and repairers, online sources and technical service bulletins. This information is provided solely for reference purposes and AustralianCar.Reviews recommends that only properly qualified persons carry out repairs or modifications. Furthermore, the number of items below should not be taken as an indicator of a model’s reliability or the frequency with which they may occur.

To report a problem or fault to the AustralianCar.Reviews team, please use the Contact Us form. Note that AustralianCar.Reviews does not offer advice on automotive problems or disputes; such enquiries will not receive a reply. For vehicles purchased from dealers after 1 January 2011, please see our Australian Consumer Law fact sheet.

2013 Opel Zafira: steering column locked when accessories selected

General Motors issued a service bulletin for 2013 Opel Zafira C vehicles. In these vehicles, steering lock may engage when the ignition lock was turned back from ‘Ignition’ to ‘ACC’ (accessories) even if the ignition key was not removed. To fix, the ignition cylinder was to be replaced; it was not necessary to replace the ignition lock housing.

2013 Opel Zafira: spark plug damage

In June 2016, General Motors issued Customer Satisfaction Program E150526-ZCSP for 2013 Opel Zafira C vehicles. According to the customer satisfaction program, dealers were to re-program the engine control module (ECM) for these vehicles and – in certain specified vehicles – replace the spark plugs (part number 55490097). These measures were initiated to prevent:

• Engine damage;
• Poor engine performance; and,
• Hesitation.