CARBARN | OPEL ASTRA GTC (2012) | It was onlt a year ago that we saw the Opel GTC Paris Concept car, but the company is ready with the production version, the Astra GTC. It will feature the very best of Opel’s latest technology, as well as unique chassis features. No details have been revealed about the engine, but the concept featured a 2.0 liter Turbo with direct injection fitted with Start/Stop technology and a six-speed manual gearbox.
Opel also made some noticeable changes compared to its five-door counterpart, one that includes a lower ride height of 15 mm, a longer wheelbase - 2,685 mm to 2,695 mm - and a wider front end - 1,544 mm to 1,584 mm - an rear end - 1,538 mm to 1,588 mm. According to Opel, the Astra GTC is now being offered in four different powertrain options with more in the way, possibly when the Frankfurt Motor Show rolls around in September.
There’s also a 1.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that comes available with a choice output of either 120 horsepower and 140 horsepower. Finally, the most powerful engine on the line-up is a 1.6-liter turbocharged gas engine with 180 horsepower mated to a six-speed manual transmission with a top speed of 137 mph.
The prices for the new Opel Astra GTC varies depending on the trim or engine option. With the release of the Astra GTC, Opel is positioning itself to take on the Volkswagen Scirocco. The VW sports hatch is a car that fits right in against the Astra GTC with its 1.4-liter TSI engine that produces 122 horsepower and 147 lb/ft of torque mated to a six-speed manual transmission, an acceleration time from 0-62 mph in 9.7 seconds and a top speed of 124 mph. Even the price - £18,860 ($30,100) for the Scirocco - is just a little cheaper than the Astra GTC, making it very difficult on choosing which pickle we prefer.
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