OPELAstra 5 Doors 1994 - 1998

　　After three years since the model's launch, Opel refreshed the first generation of the Astra in 1994, introducing new engines and new safety features.

　　Retiring the Kadett nameplate didn't seem like a good idea from the German carmaker. But soon, Opel proved that it was right. The new Astra was far from the initial Kadett concept. After 1980, the compact hatchback became famous for its sporty versions but still highly popular for families and loved by rental companies. In the five-door hatchback shape, the Astra was an excellent contender against the best-known German hatchback, VW Golf.

　　The facelifted version received a new front fascia with a redesigned grille that sported a reversed trapezoidal shape and the chromed Opel badge in the middle. Previously, the Astra featured a one-slat grille. The carmaker dropped the orange lenses for the turn signals favoring the clear-lens system, with orange bulbs inside to comply with the European legislation. At the back, the liftback version received smoked lenses instead of clear ones from the 1991 model.

　　Inside, the carmaker introduced a new dashboard, which included a passenger airbag. For the sound system, Opel offered an option for a CD player for the top trim levels, while the base version remained without any radio. The rear folding rear bench increased the trunk space from 360 liters (12.7 cu-ft) up to 1,200 liters (42.3 cu-ft).

　　Under the hood, the carmaker introduced a new Euro 2 compliant engine range. The base version featured a 1.4-liter that provided just 60 hp, but on the other end of the scale was a 2.0-liter, 150 hp. The Astra featured front disc brakes at the front and drums in the rear or all-around discs, depending on the engine version.