Opel Astra Facelift Spied With A New Front End

The Opel Astra was introduced three years ago at the Frankfurt Motor Show and it appears the company is preparing a minor facelift for the popular model.

Recently caught undergoing testing, the updated Astra has a heavily camouflaged front end which suggests the model could be equipped with a new front bumper and a modified grille. There doesn’t appear to be any other changes but this is an early prototype and there could be additional styling tweaks in the works.

Nothing is official but the Astra could receive an updated infotainment system and new driver assistance features. The interior could also have the usual trim and upholstery updates.

Engine options remain unconfirmed but Opel and Vauxhall officially became part of Groupe PSA last summer. The new owners have been eager to install PSA-sourced engines into Opel and Vauxhall models but it remains unclear if the company will add them when the Astra is facelifted or redesigned. The latter scenario would be more feasible but only time will tell.

If Opel decides to stick with its current engine lineup, we can expect an assortment of petrol and diesel options. Petrol choices currently include a 1.4-liter four-cylinder with 100 PS (74 kW) and 130 Nm (95 lb-ft) of torque as well as a turbo 1.0-liter three-cylinder developing 105 PS (77 kW) and 170 Nm (125 lb-ft) of torque. There are also two turbocharged 1.4-liter four-cylinder engines with outputs of 125 PS (92 kW) and 150 PS (110 kW). Buyers looking for something more powerful can opt for a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder with 200 PS (147 kW) and 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque.

On the diesel side, there are three 1.6-liter engines with outputs ranging from 95 PS (70 kW) to 136 PS (100 kW). Opel also offers a 1.6-liter biturbo diesel with 160 PS (118 kW) and 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque.