Mild makeover for Astra

Holden has upgraded its Astra hatch, coupe and wagon models with a more powerful and efficient engine, and styling revisions up front.

The MY 7.5 Astra range update introduces the 'XER' 1.8-litre engine featuring 103kW/175Nm, and also boasts improved fuel consumption figures for all models.

The XER version uses smarter technology such as variable valve timing to provide better ratings than the 92kW (using PULP fuel) Astra MY 7.0 model.

Holden says the new engine's emission levels are up to 10g/km lower than the previous unit. Fuel consumption is rated at 7.4lt/100km for the manual coupe and hatch, 7.8lt/100km with the auto, compared to 7.8 and 8.2lt/100km respectively for the former engine. The wagon models use 7.4lt/100km (manual) and 7.9lt/100km (auto).

The XER 1.8 also boasts a more usable torque range, with 90 per cent of its 175Nm (up from 170Nm) available from 2200-6200rpm. Maximum torque is at 3800rpm for both the manual and automatic models; the latter topping out at 170Nm.

The new engine is produced at GM's Szentgotthard engine plant in Hungary. It is lighter than the previous unit, largely due to weight savings to the cylinder head and benefits from stiffening measures in the head and block for more structural strength.

The revision includes mildly updated styling for the range, with a touch more chrome around the headlights and new upper radiator grille, and freshened V-shaped profile. The CDX and CDTi (turbodiesel) models come with new 10-spoke alloy wheels. The interior centre console has also been reworked, with new material and trim elements and chrome rings on the dial controls.

The Astra MY 7.5 launch included the TwinTop coupe-convertible (more here) and sporty SRi hatch (more here) models with the 2.2-litre Direct injection four-cylinder engine. The all-aluminium unit is new to the Astra range and underwent calibration for Australian conditions by local engineers.

The Astra line-up includes the SRi Coupe with turbocharged 2.0-litre. All models except the TwinTop have a full-size spare.

Pricing for the Astra range remains unchanged, starting at $21,990 for the manual CD hatch. The SRi models start at $29,990 for the five-door Hatch; $30,490 for the three-door Coupe. The Astra TwinTop convertible starts at $45,490.

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