When the Astra GTC was launched in 2012, it immediately drew the attention of enthusiasts, who were drawn to its dynamic “Blade” design and sprinter-like stance. Adding to the hype was Opel’s claim that the GTC is a standalone model within its model range, because it only shares three exterior components (the wing mirror housings, door handles and radio antenna) with the other Astras.
But the excitement was short-lived because the initial variant launched here, the GTC 1.4, only offers modest performance. Despite having a turbocharged 1.4-litre motor with an output of 140bhp and 200Nm, its zero-to-100km/h time of 10.3 seconds is more akin to that of a humble family hatchback.
Opel, however, is hoping that the introduction of the GTC 1.6 will be enough to sway a few minds. This variant, which has a 1.6-litre turbo engine, churns out 170bhp and 260Nm – 30bhp and 60Nm more than its 1.4-litre stablemate. The GTC 1.6 has also been given slightly sportier attire in the form of a bodykit from the brand’s OPC line of accessories. OPC, which stands for Opel Performance Centre, is the division responsible for making hairier versions of the carmaker’s regular models.
Said bodykit, however, is so subtle that you’d barely notice its components, which in the test vehicle’s case, consist of a pair of side skirts. The GTC 1.6 doesn’t come with bigger wheels (18-inch rims are standard, though) or upgraded suspension either.
New turbocharged 1.6-litre is capable, but its delivery lacks sparkle.
That’s just as well, since the 1.6-litre powerplant has a mild rather than manic power delivery. The century sprint is accomplished in 9.2 seconds (a mere second quicker than the GTC 1.4) and the car is actually slower than the five-door Astra, which still uses the older but slightly more powerful 1.6-litre turbo motor.
The GTC 1.6, however, makes up for its lack of outright punchiness by providing the driver with remarkable stability through corners. Press the car into a particularly tight bend, and you’ll be surprised to find that the front end seems to “flatten” itself in an attempt to hug the tarmac better. Of course, if you push it any further, understeer begins to set in – this is, after all, a front-wheel-drive car.
Now that the GTC has more energy, the only thing it still lacks is a livelier power delivery. Adding a Sport setting to the gearbox with a manual override function (and perhaps a pair of paddle-shifters), might just do the trick.
2013 Opel Astra GTC 1.6 (A)
ENGINE 1598cc, 16-valves, inline-4, turbocharged
MAX POWER 170bhp at 6000rpm
MAX TORQUE 260Nm at 1650-3200rpm
GEARBOX 6-speed automatic with manual select
0-100KM/H 9.2 seconds
TOP SPEED 210km/h
CONSUMPTION 14.9km/L
CO2 EMISSION 158g/km
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