BERLIN: While other manufacturers are getting rid of their estate models and focusing on SUVs, Opel is going in the opposite direction.
The German car maker is bringing out a new estate as part of the eleventh generation of the Astra with prices starting at €27,750 (RM124,000).
At 4.64 metres, the Sports Tourer is almost 30cm longer than the basic five-door model and costs €1,100 (RM4,907) more.
Opel realises that estate cars are out of fashion so it has done everything it can to defy that stuffy image.
The designers have given the body a decidedly sporty cut with sharp contours and crisp proportions. With its black plastic Opel Vizor grille framed by narrow headlights, the car has a self-confident and modern appearance.
The Astra also has this modern look inside. The centrepiece is the Pure Panel where the digital instruments appear as a uniform display element above the steering wheel and centre console.
The instruments can be configured individually. The system works much more simply and unerringly than the interior technology of a VW Golf and looks a lot more appealing than the old-fashioned dashboard of a Ford Focus.
But the Sports Tourer doesn't live on its modern image alone, it has other worthwhile qualities. Developed with the aim of becoming the load master of the compact class, it offers plenty of space.
The rear seats are a little more spacious than in the five-door model and it’s also easier to get in. The boot provides 608 to 1,634 litres of storage space, and there are a number of clever details in addition to the many storage compartments.
For example, the boot floor can be adjusted to two different heights or tilted to 45 degrees to prevent boxes and suitcases from sliding around.
Just as with the general look and feel, Opel is also fighting the dusty image of estate cars with the powertrain options.
That's why the Sports Tourer will be one of the first estates to be available with an electric drive. Until that goes on sale next year with 100 kW/136 hp and a range of around 400 kilometres, a plug-in hybrid will be available.
This will initially be available with 165 kW/225hp and an electric range of around 60km, and later also with 132 kW/180hp and the same range.
The Sports Tourer can hit 100kph in 7.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 225kph. At the same time, it’s surprisingly economical with an average consumption of 1.1 litres per 100km.
There are also two petrol engines with a displacement of 1.2 litres and 81 kW/110hp or 96 kW/130hp, as well as a 1.5-litres diesel with 96 kW/130 hp. All three are cheaper than the hybrid, but their moderate performance will bring less excitement.
All in all, the Opel Sports Tourer looks good, is equipped with modern features, and will soon even be fully electric.
It shows that there's still life in the estate and that the best family car in the compact class doesn't always have to be an SUV — especially when that car is cheaper and uses less fuel.
