Opel introduced the third generation of its compact lineup, Astra, in 2004 as a five-door hatchback, and, later on, it completed the range with other body versions.
It was a major revamp for the German brand when compared to its predecessor. It was technologically advanced and offered even an adaptive suspension, which was unusual for a budget compact vehicle.
At the front, the design team installed swept-back headlights with a two-slat grille and a chromed horizontal bar. Its bumper was split in three, with a center grille flanked by two scoops for fog lights offered as an option. Unlike its predecessor, the 2004 model, known as Astra H, featured body-colored bumpers for the entire range, regardless of the trim level. In the five-door version, the vehicle featured a wide C-pillar and an almost vertical tailgate.
Inside, Opel improved the material's quality and added more options on the list, including a navigation system. Even the base models featured a sound system. Depending on the engine version, the Astra H featured flat or sport bucket seats at the front, but the carmaker offered the same split-bench in the back, which increased the trunk size when folded from 312 liters (11 cu-ft) to 1265 liters (44.6 cu-ft), which was not exactly on top of its segment.
Under the hood, Opel offered the Astra five-doors with a choice of eleven engines, both gasoline, and turbo-diesel. It featured one of the best semi-independent rear suspensions in the compact segment.