Opel Astra 2026: refreshed design, upgraded technology and engine range

The Opel Astra has been refreshed without succumbing to the urge for a major overhaul. Instead, Opel has focused on areas where improvements could be made. The outcome is a model that remains instantly recognisable while gaining stronger credentials.

Opel Astra 2026 design and lighting updates

The most noticeable exterior revisions are at the front, where the Blitz badge is now illuminated for the first time. The lighting can also be specified with the adaptive Intelli-Lux HD system, optional on the flagship trim. Featuring more than 50,000 LED elements in each headlamp, it can light the road without dazzling other drivers and adapts in real time.

Elsewhere, the styling retains its familiar character. Inside, the changes to the Astra 2026 are more discreet, with the two 10-inch displays for the instrument panel and central screen remaining in place. Climate control is still operated using physical buttons, while Intelli-Seats are now standard across every version.

The infotainment system supports over-the-air updates, ChatGPT integration and a head-up display. In the electric version, it also includes a connected journey planner.

Boot space in the Astra and Sports Tourer

The Astra provides up to 422 litres of boot capacity, rising to 1,339 litres with the rear seats folded. In the electric model, these figures fall to 352 litres and 1,268 litres respectively. The Sports Tourer estate offers between 597 and 1,634 litres, or 516 to 1,553 litres in electric form, making it one of the segment’s most spacious options for luggage.

Powertrains for every preference

Opel has retained a broad choice of powertrains for the Astra 2026, covering electric, plug-in hybrid, mild-hybrid and diesel options.

The range begins with the mild-hybrid powertrain, pairing a 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol engine with a compact 15.6 kW (21 hp) electric motor and a six-speed automatic gearbox. Combined maximum output is 145 hp (107 kW).

For those seeking greater performance, the plug-in hybrid delivers up to 195 hp (144 kW), making it the most powerful version in the line-up. Its key upgrade is a battery enlarged from 12.4 kWh to 17.2 kWh, extending electric range to up to 84 km on the WLTP cycle, almost 20 km more than previously.

Meanwhile, the Astra Electric produces 115 kW (156 hp) and receives a slightly larger battery, increasing from 54 kWh to 58 kWh. It now delivers up to 454 km of range, or 445 km in the Sports Tourer. With 100 kW DC rapid charging, the battery can be replenished from 20% to 80% in around 30 minutes. It also introduces V2L functionality, allowing the car to power external devices such as electric bicycles.

For drivers who favour diesel, the 130 hp 1.5 Diesel remains available, with consumption of 4.8 l/100 km. It is an increasingly rare choice in this segment, yet still makes sense for motorists who cover long distances on the road.

What is the starting price?

The Opel Astra 2026 is available in Portugal from €30,990 for the hatchback and €32,090 for the estate. See the prices for the complete range: