Opel Astra and Corsa 2012 review

Two long time Aussie favorites, Astra and Corsa - Barina I think - are back to work as Opel opens a store downstairs. There are actually three models on Opel's September 1st launch team, but it's the Astra that does the hard work with the baby Corsa as the price leader and the larger family-oriented Insignia.

All three feel German strong and solid based on today's "speed dating" presentation in rural New South Wales, but it's price and value that will make all the difference as Opel positions itself against Volkswagen in Australia. “The countdown is over. Our arrival in Australia will be something very special,” says Bill Mott, managing director of Opel Australia.

He acknowledges that Opel is getting a head start on the Astra, which has long been a winner as a Holden, but says following the car can also cause problems.

“This Astra is both a real help for us and, as a new brand, a problem that we need to solve. We must speak the truth and speak the truth well. The truth is that there was an Astra, and it has always been an Opel,” he says.

We can't reveal pricing details just yet, but first impressions are pretty good. Especially since Opel has chosen really terrible roads that will never flatter any car.

The Corsa is chunky and rugged - although the interior quality is more like a displaced Korean baby - with a driving feel that will impress people who might buy it instead of a VW Polo. The seats are a bit like benches and the dashboard is dated, but it's still a car that's pleasant enough to drive.

Insignia is roomy, comfortable and pleasant to drive. It's also well-equipped, but can take on a ton of midsize rivals, from the VW Passat to the Ford Mondeo to the long-time favorite of Carsguide's Skoda Superb.

That brings us to the Astra, which comes in five-door hatchback, five-door station wagon and glorious GTC coupe. They will draw attention and also drive well, although we can argue about details like the too stiff suspension in a van with 18-inch wheels.

Headlining the GTC 1.6 turbo with magnetically adjustable suspension similar to the system used by HSV, it will be a serious competitor to the Golf GTi. it's not as nimble, but it has a good chassis and nice touches, including an adult rear seat.

So the first signs are encouraging, although there is a long way to go and much remains to be discovered.