The eagle-eyed amongst you will have noticed that when Opel recently revealed the new Astra saloon there was a distinct lack of pictures showing the front end of the car. That is because the Astra range has received a mid-cycle refresh including a host of front end revisions - and Opel was holding that news back until today.
Exterior
Most of the changes take place around the front end of the car where the Astra range gets a more bold and aggressive appearance thanks to a new front grille, with repositioned logo-bar in the upper section and a re-styled lower area too. New front indicator lamps and a fresh design of fog lamp (where fitted) complete the front-end revisions. The rear of both models has also been refreshed, with new rear-panel styling complemented by a chrome lower moulding.
Interior
New fabrics, colours and materials spruce up the cabin, but the big news is a range of options not previously available on the Astra. These include a second-generation 'Opel Eye' front camera, Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indication and Forward Collision Alert. Other options include a rear view camera and advanced park assist.
Mechanicals
Aside from the cosmetic and technology updates the Astra range remains unchanged so is still available as the three-door GTC, five-door hatch and Sports Tourer body styles (the four-door saloon arrives in September) and with power outputs varying from the 110hp produced by the 1.7-litre CDTi diesel engine to the 280hp offered in the new flagship OPC model.
Anything else?
We're awaiting confirmation on pricing changes.