The Opel Astra has been declared the “Best European Car” in 2004 by a leading German automotive magazine.
The car led the way in quality, reliability and customer satisfaction, taking also the title of “Best Compact Car” against nine other contenders, Auto Build reported.
“This is wonderful news for Opel and its owners. With its bold design, advanced technology, attractive price and optional accessories, the Astra provides a fantastic driving experience,” said Karam Farah, regional Opel business manager in the Middle East. “This ranking is recognition of Astra’s increasingly important place in the automotive market.”
The Auto Bild quality report is published once a year based on data material of the German TUV (Technical Inspection), which covers a survey of 25,000 drivers. The report also takes into account motor repair and service qualities, warranties and service offers as well as results from Auto Bild’s own durability tests.
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.
“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,” an Opel statement said. Opel, which has been producing automobiles since 1899, is the German operation of General Motors, the world’s largest automotive company. In 2003, some 1.6 million Opel and Vauxhall cars, commercial vehicles and component sets were produced in nine production and assembly operations across six countries in Western and Central Europe.
