The new Opel Astra has taken another Car of the Year Award against much fancied and strong opposition, making Mzansi the thirteenth country where the Opel Astra has taken the Car of the Year since introduction.
The accolade was announced at a banquet at Kyalami on March 15, comes on the back of the European Car of the Year award the Astra won in 2016, widely considered the most prestigious and important prize in the world of motoring. It also picked up the 2015 SAFETYBEST Award and the 2015 Golden Steering Wheel Award.
The Astra’s all-round excellence has not gone unnoticed on the local front either and since its April 2016 launch Opel’s C-segment hatchback. Two of its key strengths are exceptional efficiency in terms of packaging, aerodynamics, weight-reduction and drivetrains, but also the way it has democratised technology. It is packed with segment leading safety, infotainment and driver aids usually reserved for luxury vehicles.
The COTY judges, recognised the Astra’s overall excellence but specifically praised its build quality and dynamic ability – its safety-boosting road-holding and handling characteristics were singled out. Other categories evaluated include Exterior Design and & Styling; Interior Use of Materials; Interior Layout; Technology; Engine Performance; Gearbox & Transmission; Engineering Integrity & Build Quality; Ride Quality & Refinement; Steering & Handling; Affordability; Value for Money; and Overall Excellence.
The New Astra joins similar awards won by its predecessor in 1995.