Opel Astra E Video Review

Published on 28 May, 2024

Is electrification just what the Astra needed? 

Highlights

Overview

Once a popular choice among young drivers, the Opel Astra has seen a decline in attention in recent years as consumer preferences shifted towards SUVs and electric vehicles. Now, the Astra has joined at least one of those clubs with the introduction of the Astra-E, which combines impressive aesthetics with a range of over 400km and a starting price below €40,000. Could this be the rebirth the Astra needed? 

The Astra E has a boot capacity of 352 litres, which is smaller than the 422 litres available in the petrol and diesel versions due to the battery pack underneath. In comparison, the Volkswagen ID.3, a close rival in terms of size and price, offers 385 litre of boot space. It’s still perfectly adequate for most people’s needs with all the practicality of a hatchback opening and enough room for a weekly shop. Space in the back is about typical for the class, although legroom gets tight with a taller passenger in the front or behind the wheel. This weakens its credentials as a family car but Opel seem to have the young and trendy set in their sights with this new Astra.

This is particularly evident in the front of the cabin which strikes the perfect balance between design and function. The modern, minimalistic layout keeps things simple while offering all the latest in-car technology. The infotainment system is sharp and responsive and easy to pair with your phone via wireless CarPlay and/or Android Auto. All models come well equipped from the ground up with a raft of high-tech safety features. The entry level SC comes with 16 inch alloy wheels as standard, as well as a 10 inch colour touch screen display and adaptive cruise control. The Elegance adds larger wheels, wireless phone charging and heated seats and steering wheel. The top of the line GS model gets 18 inch wheels, a stylish black exterior pack and dual zone climate control.

The Astra E features a 54kWh battery, providing a range of up to 416km. It produces 156hp and accelerates to 100kmph in just under five seconds. This combination ensures a fun driving experience, characterized by the immediate and smooth power delivery typical of EVs. The cabin remains quiet and relaxing, retaining the solid, comfortable, and engaging driving dynamics of the original Astra. Although EVs are quiet generally, the Astra E also benefits from excellent sound insulation, enhancing the serene driving experience further. In terms of efficiency, the Astra E is extremely impressive, with energy consumption averaging around 13kWh per 100km on mixed long and short journeys. This suggests that the quoted range of approximately 400km is realistic and achievable in everyday use.

The new Astra E makes a strong case for itself in many key areas – the impressive range, onboard technology and head turning good looks to name a few. It doesn’t necessarily scream EV the way some of its rivals do which will be another bonus for some. The Astra has traditionally held its value quite well on the used market and comes with an eight year / 160,000km battery warranty, in addition to the standard Opel three year manufacturer warranty.   

Facts & Figures

Sinead McCann

Sinéad is our resident car tester who has the unenviable (-ok, slightly enviable) task of reviewing all the latest new cars to hit the market. You can follow her on Twitter @smcani and on Instagram @whatshedrives