Opel has introduced a new entry-level equipment variant for the Astra range, reducing the starting price of the Astra Electric in Germany by €1,900 to €36,490. Called Astra Start, the new trim is being introduced for the latest model year and is also available with the model’s mild-hybrid and diesel powertrains.
The electric Astra in the next equipment level, Edition, starts at €38,490. The new Start variant lowers the initial purchase price but excludes several features that were previously included as standard, including a heat pump.
Powertrain and Charging Specifications Unchanged
The Astra Electric retains its existing powertrain specifications in the Start trim. The electric motor produces 115 kW, while the battery has a capacity of 55 kWh.
Charging is supported at up to 11 kW using AC power and up to 100 kW through a DC fast charger.
Despite the lower price, standard equipment includes six-way adjustable seats, automatic climate control, front and rear parking sensors, and two cockpit displays for the instrument cluster and infotainment system. A new metallic blue paint option is also available.
However, the Astra Start does not include a heat pump, a 180-degree rear-view camera or keyless entry and starting. The removal of the heat pump may also affect energy efficiency in cold conditions compared with a configuration equipped with the system.
Optional Comfort Package
Customers can add the Comfort Package Start for €500. The package includes heat-insulating glazing, an automatically dimming interior rear-view mirror and a centre armrest. For the Astra Sports Tourer estate, it also includes roof rails.
The package provides additional comfort and convenience equipment while keeping the entry-level version separate from higher-priced configurations.
Opel Expands Entry-Level Strategy
Patrick Dinger, CEO of Opel Deutschland, said the new trim was intended to make the Astra more affordable across its available powertrains.
With the launch of the new Start trim, we are now offering Opel Astra customers an even more attractive deal. Depending on the powertrain variant, they can save up to €1,900 while owning a car ‘made in Germany’ that is already extensively equipped. In this way, we are making individual mobility even more accessible to everyone, regardless of their preferred powertrain – and at the same time significantly more affordable than many of our competitors do
Opel is extending the Start equipment strategy to other models, including the Frontera and Combo. The company says the approach is intended to provide lower-priced entry versions while retaining a selection of standard equipment.
For the Astra Electric, the new trim reduces the upfront cost but requires buyers to weigh the price saving against the loss of features such as the heat pump and rear-view camera.