Vauxhall has released today first teaser sketches of the all-new sixth generation Vauxhall/Opel Astra, which makes it's world premiere one year from now at the 2009 IAA Frankfurt motor show. According to Vauxhall, the Astra will be going for a premium approach similar to the recently unveiled mid-size Insignia and adopt similar features such as the Front Camera System which combines traffic sign recognition with lane departure warning system and next generation Adaptive Front Lighting (AFL). The same premium approach continues inside with a wrap-around interior and a wing-line sweep that links the instrument panel to the door. Adopted from the new Corsa is the FlexFix integrated bike carrier. The Astra will debut in 5-door hatchback form, but we expect the all new Delta platform to spawn several other familiar variants like the coupe, twintop and wagon (estate) with greener engines. Production for the next generation Astra starts at Ellesmere Port in late 2009.
Although these silhouette sketches reveal very little, we could not help but notice one of the included press images which contains a collage of sorts. In the foreground we can clearly see the left rear corner of the Insignia, but in the background is a red vehicle that is heavily blurred, perhaps new Astra? Also, a bald guy is pushing a display board containing a few curious design sketches of what appear to be a vehicle matching the body profile of the Astra. Let the speculation begin...
ALL-NEW ASTRA SET TO TAKE COMPACT CLASS BY STORM IN 2009
5-door hatch to debut at 2009 Frankfurt Show
All-new, highly sophisticated chassis
New high-efficiency engines
Leading technology evolved from Insignia
The next generation Vauxhall Astra will receive its premiere at next year’s Frankfurt Show, delivering a compelling mix of technical innovation and groundbreaking design that promises to raise the bar in the compact sector.
With its flowing lines and signature sculpted blade, the new Astra will carry the spirit of the Insignia into the compact class, offering customers a premium feel, while maintaining Vauxhall’s value for money promise.
Inside, the premium theme will continue, with a warm, wrap-around interior and a wing-line sweep that links the instrument panel to the door.
An all-new chassis promises to maintain the Astra’s reputation for class-leading dynamics, while new engines will maximise low-end torque to achieve miserly fuel consumption.
Also expect to see clever and practical features on the new Astra, taking inspiration from systems like the Corsa’s FlexFix integrated carrier.
The new Astra will major on technical innovation, such as the Front Camera System used in the upcoming Insignia, which combines traffic sign recognition with a lane departure system, improving occupant safety and potentially helping drivers avoid fines.
Next generation Adaptive Front Lighting (AFL) will also be shared with the Insignia. The system adapts to different road and driving conditions by providing nine unique light beams, improving visibility and safety during night-time driving.
This will be the fourth generation of the hugely successful Astra, which has sold over 2.5 million cars in the UK during the last 27 years.
The current model kick-started Vauxhall’s design renaissance when it was launched in 2004, and according to Mark Adams, GM Europe’s Vice President of Design, it presented his team with serious challenges: "The present Astra already combines a high level of technical substance and emotional styling, but with the new car we are taking a big step forward in both respects, while emphasising its sporting credentials."
Mmmm....i don't know if the sketch on the board is the Astra. By the wheel base length shown in the sketch, which is three wheels (how many wheels would from edge to edge in between the drawn wheels), it shows the length of a mid size sedan. This may be the Saturn counter part the Aura or just a cool sketch because it is branded an opel in the picture.
the sketch is very interesting, i think it looks a little alfa at the rear in styling stakes, but i definately think the car in the background is a blurred new astra 5 dr. interestin to see what this looks like, i think the new golf is a drab boring car that hasnt moved far at all. the astra may beat it on style this time
