OPELAstra 5 Doors 2007 - 2009

　　After three years on the market and more than 1.3-million units sold, Opel decided to upgrade the Astra lineup, leading to a new five-door hatchback version for this popular European vehicle.

　　While in the. U.S. Saturn tried to sell the European compact-sized hatchback and failed miserably. In Europe, the Astra was already an established nameplate. But like on American soil, Opel counted on fleet owners to give them this product.

　　There were no noteworthy differences between the 2004 and the 2007 models from a distance. Still, a trained eye could have seen the new headlights. Moreover, Opel offered an adaptive headlight system as an option, which was not a regular feature for the compact segment. At the front, the new bumper sported new scoops for the foglights, while the headlights featured a chromed look.

　　Inside, Opel kept the same acclaimed bucket seats that were built for zero-gravity, thus enhancing the comfort aboard. Access to the rear bench was good, and there was decent legroom for grown-ups. Even though the bench was wide enough for three occupants, they would've to rub their elbows so two people would better suit.

　　Under the hood, the German carmaker bet on enhanced turbodiesel and gasoline engines. Still, unlike its three-door sibling, it was stripped from the OPC version that pumped out 240 ponies. But it shined in the fuel efficiency contest with the 1.3-liter, Fiat-sourced turbodiesel. Also, the most powerful version for the five-doors Astra was a 150 PS (148 hp) turbodiesel.

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