The 2012 Opel Astra OPC was revealed today and GM released the full specifications and the first images of the new hot hatch. Opel's 2012 Astra OPC (Opel Performance Center) is based on the Astra GTC, which receives, as the manufacturer says, a "sharper edge". To power the 2012 Astra OPC, Opel uses a 2.0-liter direct injection turbocharged petrol engine, with an output of 206 kW/280 hp and 400 Nm. The new model is in fact the fastest version of the hatchback Opel ever made. The 2012 Opel Astra OPC is rated with a top speed of 250 km/h. The Russelsheim-based carmaker did not announce its zero to 62 mph (100 km/h) acceleration time yet.
As you may know, putting so much power on the front axle generates torque steer.
To minimize this unwanted effect, Opel fitted the 2012 Astra OPC with the same HiPerStrut (High Performance Strut) front suspension used in the GTC model. Additionally, the Astra OPC is also equipped with a fully adaptive FlexRide chassis control system. The FlexRide system lets the driver select adjust the steering and accelerator pedal sharpness and the car's characteristic shock absorber line. The 2012 Astra OPC has two settings for this: "Sport" and "OPC".
Also for improving the handling of the 2012 Astra OPC, Opel equipped it with a limited slip differential on the front axle. Opel says that the new LSD helps the Astra OPC exit corners faster, even when the road is wet.
The equipment list of Opel's 2012 Astra OPC includes Brembo brakes with vewntilated discs, a sports leather steering wheel, a new instrument cluster, sport seats, a rear diffuser and a double exhaust system.
For better stability at high speeds, and for a distinctive look, the 2012 Astra OPC features a new aerodynamics package. The body kit includes new front and rear bumpers, side skirts and a rear roof spoiler.
The 2012 Opel Astra OPC price list and availability will be announced at a later date.
