2018 OPC Astra to be 5 door Only

[Purplehazeffc]

From all the reports I can find. It looks like the next GTC/OPC Astra models are going to be 5 door only..

As well dropping from the 2.0lt turbo to a 1.6lt turbo. Though with more power. So wonder if the GTC & OPC will share the same engine?
But with different power outputs.. Has anyone else found any more info??
Will need to wait till the 2017 Frankfurt Auto Show in September

http://gmauthority.com/blog/2015/09/next-opel-astra-opc-most-likely-has-a-1-6l-turbo-in-its-future/

http://gmauthority.com/blog/2016/03/next-opel-astra-opc-to-push-300-hp/

[dutchy]

saw those reports too but these are from a while back and before the PSA announcement. I have not seen anywhere as yet, reliable info that is, what the plans for the Opel Performance Centre.

[chris_r]

Other thing is, there won't likely be a VXR or OPC model in the Astra K lineup. Conditions of the PSA deal are that PSA is subject to a non-compete agreement, which means PSA cannot sell existing GM/Opel platform-based models in US, Russia or China until those models are transitioned to PSA platforms. I don't think PSA would see the point in developing a performance variant of the current Astra with one reason being the non-compete agreement forcing all Opel models to transition to new platforms and that the Astra K has been in production for a couple of years now with PSA probably looking to making its replacement something that's based on the Peugeot 308 and/or its successor. I think the upcoming Grandland X and Crossland X SUVs are exempt from the agreement, as they were developed on Pug 2008 and 3008 architecture anyway. Corsa F, apparently coming in 2019-20 is set to become the first Opel model transitioned to a Pug platform.

I think the only way we're going to see a performance variant of the Astra K, is if OPC end up sticking a Pug engine in it. Other than that, I can't see it really happening with this generation. Only reason the new Commodore/Insignia is getting the V6 VXR treatment is that Holden have apparently skinned their knees begging for it, because PSA allegedly don't want to produce anything with a V6 in it.

[Purplehazeffc]

Interesting you say that Chris. As the reports are saying that Opel have been developing an OPC Model for the Astra K. Hence the title that it looks to be a 5 door with a 1.6lt engine.
But there has been no news for quite a while. And now that the Astra RS & RS-V are using the 1.6lt (B16SHT) engine from the previous Astra GTC & GTC Sport models.
If there was going to be new GTC models, would they use the same engine but with more power??
Would also be disappointing if PSA use their platforms over what Opel have developed. As in general over the past couple of years the Opel's have been better.
I agree with the PSA takeover, quite a bit is up in the air with future models. As to be price competitive they will be sharing platforms & engine.
But hopefully as the Astra K was in development before the take over. It can continue & we get to see the sports & performance models released..

Main reason I'm asking is around this time next year I will be looking at buying a new car. As my Child maintenance payments will be ending. Freeing up $1100 a month.
With a new model Renault Clio RS, VW Polo GTi, Ford Fiesta ST & was hoping for the Astra GTC. It would be a good time to buy
But with the Fiesta ST being a 3cyl turbo doesn't quite sit right with me. Rumour is that the New Clio RS will be back with a Manual gearbox (Yay) Polo GTi will only be with the Manual. But VW have poor after sales.
So depending on looks & performance the Astra GTC would have been up at the top of my list... Looks like will have to wait tile Frankfurt Auto Show in Sept to see if the is an announcement

And this just looks bloody shit hot.
http://www.usautowheels.com/relax-2018-renault-clio-rs-could-be-manual/

[Purplehazeffc]

Or now even this might just get a look in..
https://www.wheelsmag.com.au/news/1706/suzuki-swift-sport-inbound-with-14-turbo-and-manual-gearbox

[dutchy]

Or now even this might just get a look in..
https://www.wheelsmag.com.au/news/1706/suzuki-swift-sport-inbound-with-14-turbo-and-manual-gearbox

Really ? Have a drive and then drop it off your list.