Opel Astra OPC Offers 280hp, 400Nm and Adjustable Suspension

Opel has launched the Astra OPC at the Geneva Motor Show with a 2.0l, direct-injected, turbocharged engine with 280hp and 400Nm of torque. Opel claims that it has tested the new OPC over 10,000km on the Nuerburgring Nordschleife. Opel has put an emphasis on getting all of that power to the ground in a front-wheel drive car by adding its adaptable HiPerStrut system to the front suspension.

The lowered, three-door hatch gets a much more aggressive front bumper with large air intakes. It also gets a new rear bumper with diffuser and integrated exhaust, extended side sills, a roof spoiler and 20in forged wheels. 

The OPC should hold the road well thanks to its advanced suspension and other upgrades. The adjustable HiPerStrut suspension is a two mode system: normal and sport. Sport mode adds more direct steering, better throttle response and tighter suspension. Opel also added a mechanical limited-slip differential for the front axle that should reduce torque steer. The car also has Brembo brakes. 

The interior has a leather, flat-bottom steering wheel and lighter, very sporty seats. The seats are 45% lighter than a conventional one. The seats are 18-way adjustable and are meant to hug the driver closely. 

The Astra OPC will be available for sale this year, but Opel has not announced a price for the model yet.