The new Opel Astra H model replaced the previous Astra G model and was presented to the automotive world at the Frankfurt Motor Show. Her presentation took place in the spring of 2004 in Andalusia (Spain). Since March 2004, the 5-door Hatchback has appeared on the market, followed in the autumn by the station wagon model with a longer wheelbase, in March 2005 by the sporty three-door Astra GTC, and in September 2005 by the Cabrio.
This model is a clear indicator of the development dynamics of Opel, and allowed it to take one of the leading places among cars of the class «compact». According to the representatives of the company. On the Astra G models, the principle of ensuring maximum comfort and convenience for both the driver and passengers has been successfully implemented. The 3rd generation car inherited all the best features of its predecessor. Perfect ergonomics of the driver's seat, a wide range of steering column settings in two planes and adjustment of the driver's seat (including height), touch-type paddle shifters, plus the convenient location of the control buttons for power windows, mirrors, audio system and the presence of an on-board computer evoke a feeling of unity with the car.
The design of the car 8 as a whole creates a mood of speed, a feeling of movement and swiftness when looking even at a stationary car. The stiffening rib in the center of the hood, combined with the expressive decorative grille, is a reflection of the power and dynamism in the design of the car. The new Opel Astra offers a wide range of options, including alloy wheels, to give the car an even more impressive look.
The main guideline for designers when creating a car was the coordination of interior and exterior design. The new cars have increased interior space by 14 cm in length, 2 cm in width and 4 cm in height compared to the previous ones, which made it possible to provide passengers in the rear seat with comfort comparable to the comfort of cars of a higher class.
In July 2005, the Opel Zafira B appeared on the market. The Zafira's platform and suspension are borrowed from the Astra, but the bodywork is based on the High Capacity Estate design. The Zafira not only has seven three-row seats, it can quickly transform into a spacious truck by folding the rear rows of seats flush with the floor.
The new Opel Astra/Zafira models provide ample opportunities to emphasize the individuality of each driver, not only with design solutions.
The model range is traditionally distinguished by the extreme breadth of the range of engines offered to the attention of consumers * A complete list of engines used to complete the considered engine models is given in the Specifications at the beginning of Chapter 2. Almost all engines belong to the class of in-line 4-cylinder, 16-valve units with an overhead arrangement of two camshafts (DOHC) and are installed in the front of the car transversely to the plane of symmetry of the latter. On the Russian market, the most widely represented models are equipped with gasoline engines with a working volume of 1.4 liters (90 hp), 1.6 l (105. hp) and 1.8 l (125 hp). Recently, models with more powerful engines have begun to appear - 2.0 l and 2.2 l (Zafira). The engines meet all modern requirements for the content of toxic components in exhaust gases. In addition, the 1.4L and 1.6L petrol models can be equipped with a «Twinport», allowing to reduce fuel consumption during frequent engine idling and low speeds, which is especially important for the urban cycle.
All petrol models are equipped with an electronic fuel injection system. Turbocharged diesel engines are equipped with a highly economical electronically controlled direct injection system and a common rail for all cylinders («Common Rail»). Intercooler (intercooler), increasing the efficiency, d. turbocharger is standard on all diesel models.
To ensure the transmission of torque from the engine to the front drive wheels, a 5- or 6-speed manual gearbox is provided (RKPP), or 4-speed automatic transmission (AT), as well as the Easytronic robotic gearbox - see chapters 6 and 7.
The brake system is equipped with a standard vacuum booster. Most models use front and rear disc brakes. On models of earlier years of production with small and medium engine displacements, drum-type rear brakes can be installed. A novelty of the brake system is the anti-recoil function - the system allows the driver to move off without the help of the parking brake. When the brake pedal is released, the brake pressure is maintained in the working circuit for another 1.5-2 seconds, which allows you to keep the car in place. Astra/Zafira 3rd generation comes standard with ABS. The fully independent front suspension consists of MacPherson struts and transverse lower wishbones. Rear suspension - with torsion beam and two trailing arms - see details Chapter 10. The creators of the new Astra have provided an original option - a system that monitors tire pressure and informs the driver about the need to pump up a particular wheel. Optionally, on some Station Wagon / Zafira models, an automatic rear axle ride height adjuster is installed.
Steering - rack and pinion, with electrohydraulic booster, the steering mechanism is located behind the engine. The electrically driven steering pump does not require special maintenance. The hydraulic fluid reservoir is built into the pump assembly, see illustration. Chapter 10.
Both series (Astra and Zafira) are equipped with front and side airbags installed as standard equipment. Head airbags may be optional. An engine immobilization system is used to protect against theft. The standard infotainment system is equipped with a security code.
The active safety system of the new Opel Astra may include an interactive car control system (Interactive Driving System - IDS). It is designed to compensate for high-level lateral accelerations and provide precise cornering, quick and precise steering response, reduced braking distances and stability in emergency braking and maneuvering situations. IDS provides unmistakable control over the car in any situation. For some Opel Astra models, IDS is complemented by a dynamic stabilization system (ESP+).
At the request of the owner, a speed control system can be installed on some models (tempostat). The detail that the designers and designers of the new Opel Astra/Zafira paid special attention to is the headlights. At the request of the car owner, the Astra H models can be equipped with bi-xenon headlights and an adaptive front lighting system - for the first time among cars in this class. Outside, the headlights are covered with transparent polymer caps.
For the car enthusiast, Astra/Zafira vehicles are easy to maintain, maintenance costs are kept to a minimum, and most parts requiring frequent attention are easily accessible.
With regular and proper maintenance, the Astra / Zafira will serve its owner for many years, remaining reliable and very economical.
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