Vauxhall Astra GTC (2012)

CAR GARAGE | Vauxhall Astra GTC (2012) | We wanted the Astra GTC to be the ultimate expression of Vauxhall's design language, and to embody our passion for the bike car," said Mark Adams, Vice President of Vauxhall / Opel design.  In profile, Mark and his team - a significant number of whom are fellow Brits - created tension in the GTC's shape by minimizing the lines running along the body. At the front of the car, a cent reline crease is complemented by slim, 'eagle-eye'-style headlamps featuring the wing-shaped daytime running light graphics.

Equally dramatic is the GTC's rear treatment. Its powerful shoulder section Gives the car imposing proportions and a purposeful road presence. Rear LED lighting - GTC optional across the range - highlights the stretched 'wing' motif created by the tail lamps. The Vauxhall Astra GTC has a Cd figure of just 0:33. For the first time on a Vauxhall coupe in this class, 20-inch rims are available as an option on SRI models, 19-inch wheels with a further cost option on both trims. On the upper-spec models SRI, tinted glass is standard, while the latest generation AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting) is optional across the range GTC.

Strong performance and flexibility are the core strengths of this engine, the which is available with either 120PS or 140PS power outputs. Torque generation is even more impressive, with 200Nm available in both engines from just 1.850 rpm to 4.900 rpm, translating to a 0-60mph acceleration time of 9.0 seconds (140PS) or 10.2 seconds (120PS). Air-to-air inter cooling increases the intake charge density. The adoption of a reinforced steel crankshaft with pistons and con-rods allows the use of a Relatively high 9.5: 1 compression ratio, Despite higher stresses and loads. Under-skirt piston cooling oil jets and exhaust valves are sodium filled with further measures to Ensure durability under higher internal temperatures. All 1.4 Turbo models come equipped as standard with Start / Stop, Helping Them Achieve competitively low emissions of Between 140-142g/km, depending upon wheels / tires fitted. The most powerful engine in the Vauxhall Astra GTC's line-up Produces 180PS and achieves a specific output of just over 100ps per liter. A map-based thermostat control raises the coolant temperature at low engine speeds, or under light loads, to help internal lubricant friction Reduced fuel consumption and improve.

Much of the development centered around the introduction to the GTC of Vauxhall's HiPerStrut, a first for an Astra model. Adding the HiPerStrut has also reduced the amount of camber change on the GTC's front wheels during cornering, improving grip. Steering feel is enhanced, too, helped by a reduction the steering system's friction levels. The current Astra Hatch has always handled exceptionally well," said Michael Harder, Vehicle Dynamics Supervisor at Opel. "But with the GTC, we've raised the bar still further.