The Astra will be getting a more practical body style for those who need the extra cargo capacity (or those who also just prefer wagons) with the October arrival of the Sportwagon, according to an announcement by Holden.
An estate version of the Astra has been running around Europe for a while now under its original Opel badge as the Astra Sports Tourer, but late this year will host the arrival of its Aussie permutation. Outwardly, it maintains the refined look of the Astra hatch almost to a fault, but obviously the roofline has been extended.
That single change has expanded the boot space from 370-litres to 540-litres with the seats up, but with them folded, offers up to 1,600-litres to stow cargo. There will also be passive entry and push-start as well as a hands-free powered tailgate. Meanwhile, support for Android Auto and Apple CarPlay will come as standard through the in-built MyLink infotainment screen, which also displays the feed from the standard reversing camera.
The bonnet will house the 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine (with stop/start as standard) that’s found in the lower portion of Astra hatches, presumably producing an identical 110kW and 245Nm, but it isn’t clear whether the more powerful 147kW/280Nm 1.6-litre from the RS and RS-V will be making an appearance later or has been passed over entirely for the Sportwagon.
Drive will be sent to front-wheels via a six-speed automatic transmission exclusively, unlike the hatch which is also available with a six-speed manual for all grades.
Naturally, a more detailed announcement closer to the launch date will clarify these matters, and will may include pricing information as well. Features such as Autonomous Emergency Braking, Lane Keep Assist, and Forward Collision Alert will also be available, though limited to more expensive versions or the optional Driver Assist Pack, if selected.
Holden’s Executive Director of Sales, Michael Filazzola, said: “With Astra Sportwagon joining Astra hatch and Astra sedan, we’re making sure there’s an exciting and desirable Holden small car to suit any taste or circumstance. Astra Sportwagon gives customers the best of all worlds with sleek, stylish design and impressive interior space, all supported by a wealth of driving and infotainment technology.”
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