New Opel Astra with extended range hits the market

New electric car launches usually come with a price hike, justified by advancements in tech. But Opel is bucking that trend. Following the unveiling of the refreshed Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer at the Brussels Motor Show, the company has officially opened orders. The headline? Both models now pack a larger battery and boast increased range-yet the price remains unchanged. It’s a rare win for buyers who get more without paying extra.

The biggest update to the Astra Electric is its new 58 kWh battery. This upgrade boosts the official range of the hatchback to 454 kilometers, roughly 35 km more than before. Whether you opt for the standard hatch or the roomier Astra Sports Tourer Electric wagon, range improvements come standard at no additional cost.

For those not quite ready to go fully electric, Opel still offers alternatives. The lineup includes a 107 kW (145 hp) hybrid, a plug-in hybrid delivering 144 kW (196 hp), and a 1.5-liter diesel variant. This approach ensures there’s an Astra to fit every driver’s preference.

The updated Opel Astra also sports a sharper, more contemporary look. Its front end embraces Opel’s signature Vizor style-a sleek dark panel housing sensors and cameras. For the first time ever, the Opel Blitz logo is illuminated. The design draws inspiration from the Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept. Complementing the fresh look are new 17- and 18-inch wheel options and two eye-catching new colors: Kontur White and Klover Green, the latter especially popping in urban traffic.

Nighttime driving safety gets a boost with Intelli-Lux HD lighting. This system uses over 50,000 microscopic LEDs to precisely shape the beam. It detects road signs, reduces glare off them, and automatically dims areas around oncoming vehicles to prevent blinding. Meanwhile, the rest of the road stays brightly lit. Intelli-Lux HD comes standard only on the top-tier Ultimate trim.

Comfort on long journeys is improved thanks to Intelli-Seats, which feature a distinctive central recess to reduce pressure on the tailbone-a simple yet effective design. Seats in the GS trim and above carry certifications from German experts in ergonomics and back health.

The interior also gets a thoughtful refresh. Screen graphics are cleaner and easier to read on the move. In line with sustainability goals, the steering wheel is wrapped in vegan materials, and seat upholstery options include ReNewKnit recycled fabric.

One of the most intriguing new features on the Astra Electric is V2L (Vehicle to Load) support. This lets the car act as a mobile power source-you can plug in electric bikes, camping gear, or other devices directly. It’s a handy feature for outdoor adventures.

Practicality remains a strong suit. The Astra hatchback offers up to 1,339 liters of cargo space with the rear seats folded. Meanwhile, the Astra Sports Tourer wagon expands that to a roomy 1,634 liters.

In Germany, the Opel Astra Electric starts at €37,990, while the Astra Sports Tourer Electric begins at €39,490. The hybrid kicks off at €32,990, the plug-in hybrid at €38,460, and the diesel version at €34,640. Though the electric models remain the priciest in the lineup, they’re priced within reach for most buyers considering an EV.