25.2.2002
Successful Astra portfolio leads European compact segment

The Opel/Vauxhall Astra family was the most successful model line-up in the compact segment in Western and Central Europe in 2001. Over 822,000 units were registered, placing the Astra family well ahead of its nearest competitor.

The Opel/Vauxhall Astra family was the most successful model line-up in the compact segment in Western and Central Europe in 2001. Over 822,000 units were registered, placing the Astra family well ahead of its nearest competitor. The popular Astra model line-up offers customers a wide choice, ranging from family-oriented models to sporty versions. The portfolio includes body styles such as a three and five-door hatchback, a four-door sedan, a station wagon and the Astra Classic, but also exciting niche models such as the Astra Coupé, the Astra Cabrio and a delivery van for commercial applications. Opel/Vauxhall's successful Zafira compact van is also part of the portfolio.

This market momentum continues in 2002 for the Opel/Vauxhall Zafira, which experienced a record intake of 28,000 orders in January. Contributing to the popularity of the Zafira is the Zafira OPC, Europe's fastest van with a top speed of 220 km/h and zero to 100 km/h acceleration in only 8.1 seconds. The OPC made its world premiere at the Geneva Motor Show in March last year. To meet the high demand, capacity for the Zafira OPC will be doubled in spring 2002 to 8,500 units per year. In addition to the OPC, the Zafira line-up was expanded even further in January 2002 with a 125 hp 2.2-liter, direct-injection turbodiesel engine, the most powerful diesel in its class.

Opel/Vauxhall continues to expand the Astra range with exciting new model variants. The latest addition to the Astra family is the sporty Astra Cabrio Turbo, which made its debut at this year's Brussels Motor Show. Setting new standards in its class with an acceleration of zero to 100 km/h in 8.0 seconds and a top speed of 242 km/h, the Astra Cabrio Turbo offers customers impressive performance and elegant styling.