Two new engines have been unveiled for the Vauxhall Astra, both conforming to new and stricter emissions standards.
Both the 1.6-litre petrol unit of 200hp and a 1.6-litre diesel with 136hp are available to order now and meet the strict Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard, which includes real driving emissions measured on public roads and comes into force for new registrations in September 2019.
The 1.6-litre direct injection petrol engine includes a close-coupled Gasoline Particulate Filter (GPF) which helps oxidise particles that accumulate in the filter.
It offers 300Nm of torque alongside its 200hp, and with six-speed manual or automatic transmissions produces a 0-60mph time of 7.3 seconds and a 146mph maximum speed. Combined cycle fuel economy is quoted at 43.5mpg and CO2 emissions are 151g/km.
First diesel to meet new rules
The second unit is the first Euro 6d-TEMP diesel engine available in the Astra range. Its emissions measures include Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) technology, which helps further reduce nitrogen oxide emissions. Using an injection of AdBlue is reduces NOx particles to nitrogen and water.
The diesel’s 136hp is produced alongside 320Nm of torque. Again offered with either manual or automatic transmission, it achieves combined fuel economy from 64.2mpg and CO2 emissions from 116g/km.
What Vauxhall describes as a ‘rapid transition’ to Euro 6d-TEMP compliancy is part of the brand’s quoted strategy to become a leader in vehicle emissions reduction. This strategy will see four electrified models introduced by 2020. The next generation Corsa will also be available as a fully electric vehicle, while the Grandland X will be offered as Vauxhall’s first plug-in hybrid.
By 2024, Vauxhall intends to become fully electrified, offering a hybrid or a battery electric version of every passenger car model.
Prices of Astras with the new diesel start from £20,595 and with the petrol unit £24,435.
