Opel Astra ecoFLEX Announced in Paris

Opel are going green with the launch of a new portfolio of vehicles at Paris dubbed 'ecoFLEX'. The branding will first appear on the Astra and be available in hatchback, sport hatch and estate guises. Set to be promoted as the Astra range's most economical offering, the Astra ecoFLEX boasts greater green credentials without compromising on performance.

Improved efficiency comes from optimisations in kerb weight and aerodynamics as well as improvements to the Astra's 1.7 CDTi diesel drivetrain. Power output increases by 10 percent to 110 PS, as well as peak torque of 260 Nm, generated at 2000 rpm, makes for a 117 mph top speed - without hindering fuel efficiency or carbon dioxide output.

GM Europe's Engineering President, Hans Demant, explains the ecoFLEX's positioning to offer customers access to an innovative but affordable solution to their environmental concerns. Producing 119g/km of CO2, the ecoFLEX falls into the UK's VED tax band B, offering further savings above those of its 62.8 mpg combined cycle fuel consumption figure.

Prices for the five-door Astra ecoFLEX start at £16,340 in the UK, while three-door and estate model prices and release dates are yet to be announced. Corsa and Insignia ecoFLEX models utilising modified 1.3 CDTi and 2.0 CDTi engines respectively will follow the Astra from 2009.