Opel Astra premieres at Beirut Motor Show

This third-generation of the Opel bestseller, which is distinguished by its progressive design and driving dynamics, made its showroom debut in Lebanon this month and will retail throughout the GCC in late February 2005.

"Following the footsteps of the Vectra, the new Astra marks the new dynamics and quality of Opel, with advanced technology, bold design, attractive price and equipment offering," commented Karam Farah, Regional Opel Business Manager. "The Beirut Motor Show is a very important event for the region and we were delighted to be able to unveil this exciting new model there. The Astra has always been a popular car in this market and the new generation promises to be an even better seller."

The Astra introduces into the segment the adaptive IDSPlus suspension with Continuous Damping Control (CDC), which was previously reserved for luxury vehicles and for exclusive sports cars. Other technical highlights include the steering-linked AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting) headlamp system with dynamic curve light - another first in the segment - newly-developed Infotainment systems, and a broad range of ECOTEC engines (105- 200 hp), including new TWINPORT units.

Dynamic design: Clearly different from the competition
The new Astra, with its exciting and dynamic appearance, sets itself apart from its competitors and sends a clear signal within the compact segment. Taut surfaces, crisp lines, technically crafted details and distinctive graphic elements underscore Opel's new design language.

The interior forms harmonize perfectly with the car's dynamic exterior. The seats feature state-of-the-art ergonomics with enhanced contours, higher lateral supports, longer cushions and optimized adjustment.

Advanced chassis: Premiere for IDSPlus with electronic adaptive suspension CDC
A completely new dimension of balance between comfort and active safety can be experienced in the new Astra with the optional, adaptive IDSPlus suspension system and electronic Continuous Damping Control (CDC).

This integrated chassis control network (ICC), where the control units and sensors of ESPPlus, ABS and CDC communicate constantly via the high-speed CAN (Controller Area Network) data bus system, is making its premiere in the compact segment.

Specification: Comprehensive standard equipment and SAFETEC safety package
The new Opel Astra has received independent recognition for its safety concept. The consumer protection organization Euro NCAP (European New Car Assessment Program) awarded the Astra the highest rating of five stars in front and side impact crash tests. Euro NCAP thus classified the bestseller from Opel as the safest sedan in the compact class (small family cars), with 34 points in total.