Opel Astra 1.9 CDTI Caravan Cosmo
Do you consider yourself a typical representative? Or a representative, of course? Among the many offerings of similar, slightly different and completely different products, you can also see the Astro Caravan. The Caravan, an Opel (verbal) invention that has caught on just like Jeep and the SUV, is one of the more consistent big vans as the body version in this version of the Astra. Like, of course, not necessary, although the appearance of the current Astra is absolutely correct. And the van body version seems like a successful upgrade, at least as neat as the base (5-door) body.
The eternal problem of vans is optically too long overhang over the rear wheels, which this Astro does not have! And strokes, surfaces, lines and everything else that makes up the form perfectly complement each other, creating a harmonious image. Very similar to the interior, but one (eternal) remark: that the Astra has been inside all this time or still (whatever you want) all of the above, just maybe too tough to look at.
The best part of the interior is undoubtedly the steering wheel, which fits nicely in your hands, even if you consider yourself a sporty driver. Overall, the operation is simple, only the position of the gear lever will (for a while, until you get used to it) a little annoying, since the lever is located quite back. Otherwise, the visibility around, including the outside rear-view mirrors, deserves special praise, as does the trip computer with a slightly opaque screen (the previous generation was better in this regard) and with a rather complex operation.
In collaboration with the Italian Fiat, the engine on which the test Astro was installed: a modern turbodiesel with direct injection. It doesn't like the cold, but it warms up quickly for diesels and happily sprints to 5000rpm in the first three gears, where the red square on the rev counter starts. It pulls from 1000 rpm and shows the correct will at 1500, 1600 crankshaft rpm.
Together with the six-speed transmission, the transmission is sporty and delivers a much more dynamic ride than you might imagine. The engine torque is not intimidated by a full seat load, a full trunk and steeper climbs, and with moderate leg and within certain limits, it is content with a good six liters per 100 kilometers. If you increase the fuel consumption to 9, this means that you are already driving quite fast on the road, definitely well beyond the allowed limits.
When it comes to drive mechanics, the typical Opel transmission still deserves the most criticism: the lever gives poor engagement feedback as it gives off an unpleasant rubbery feel during the shifting process. More enjoyable are the options offered by the "Sport" switch, which, among other things, noticeably increases the responsiveness of the accelerator pedal and (when pressed for a long time) deactivates the electronic stabilization program. Although, of course, the front wheels are drive, but there will be a little fun and joy in the corners thanks to the good engine and good chassis.
If you add up all the previously known and newly established truths about the Astra, this combination adds up to an enjoyable family car with a distinctly sporty touch. Whether it's just by car or on the way to your destination, where this Astra takes you.
Vinko Kernc
Photo: Aleš Pavletič, Vinko Kernc
Opel Astra 1.9 CDTI Caravan Cosmo
Basic data
| Sales: | Opel Southeast Europe Ltd. |
|---|---|
| Base model price: | 21.928,73 € |
| Test model cost: | 27.165,75 € |
| Calculate the cost of auto insurance | |
| Power: | 110kW (150 KM) |
| Acceleration (0-100 km / h): | 9,2 with |
| Maximum speed: | 207 km / h |
| Mixed flow ECE: | 7,5l / 100km |
Technical information
| engine: | 4-cylinder - 4-stroke - in-line - direct injection turbodiesel - displacement 1910 cm3 - maximum power 110 kW (150 hp) at 4000 rpm - maximum torque 320 Nm at 2000 rpm. |
|---|---|
| Energy transfer: | front wheel drive engine - 6-speed manual transmission - tires 205/55 R 16 H (Goodyear Ultra Grip M + S). |
| Capacity: | top speed 207 km / h - acceleration 0-100 km / h in 9,2 s - fuel consumption (ECE) 7,5 / 5,0 / 5,9 l / 100 km. |
| Mass: | empty vehicle 1450 kg - permissible gross weight 1975 kg. |
| External dimensions: | length 4515 mm - width 1794 mm - height 1500 mm. |
| Inner dimensions: | fuel tank 52 l. |
| Box: | 500 1590-l |
Our measurements
| T = 0 ° C / p = 1013 mbar / rel. Ownership: 63% / Condition, km meter: 2753 km | |
| Acceleration 0-100km: | 9,4s |
|---|---|
| 402m from the city: | 16,9 years ( 136 km / h) |
| 1000m from the city: | 30,7 years ( 171 km / h) |
| Flexibility 50-90km / h: | 7,2 / 12,0s |
| Flexibility 80-120km / h: | 9,3 / 14,0s |
| Maximum speed: | 200km / h (WE.) |
| test consumption: | 8,1 l / 100km |
| Braking distance at 100 km / h: | 44,7m |
| AM table: | 40m |
evaluation
The Astra Caravan is currently one of the most correct vehicles among its direct competitors: it is very well made, materials, mechanics and usability are certainly convincing. With such an engine, it can be very economical and very fast.
We praise and reproach
engine
usability, trunk
three times divisible by 1/3 rear backrest
controllability
appearance, consistency
several boxes for small items
transmission control
preserved interior
