Prices show new Astra has Golf firmly in its sights

Opel has announced prices for its new five-door Astra range, due in showrooms at the end of April.

The family hatchback market is this year's hottest segment and Astra prices are clearly aimed at taking on the new VW Golf, the Mazda3 and the new Ford Focus, due at year's end.

It's clearly setting its sights on the VW that invented the segment - prices were published alongside a direct comparison between Astra and Golf models.

"Opel is confident the new Astra will give both the recently launched Golf Mk V and the established Focus a real battle," says John Maher, Opel Ireland's managing director.

Irish motorists have not seen the benefits of cut-throat competition on the continent where incentives of up to €1,200 have been offered on new Golfs and Astras. Astra prices start at €19,595 for the 1.4-litre Life trim model and rise to a maximum of €30,695 for the 2-litre turbo SRi. The Astra goes on sale on April 24th.

There are six trim levels and six engines: four petrol - a 1.4-litre 16v (90 bhp), 1.6-litre 16v (105 bhp), 1.8-litre 16v (125 bhp) and 2-litre Turbo (170 bhp) - with the additional choice of two 1.7-litre common-rail turbodiesel engines offering 80bhp and 100bhp.

Prices for 1.4-litre versions vary from €21,395 for the Club, €23,045 for the Design and €22,295 for the SXi. The Elite trim starts in 1.6-litre, while the SRi starts with the 1.8-litre.