Holden Version of Astra Gets Engine Upgrade
MELBOURNE, Australia — General Motors has updated the Holden Astra with a more powerful and fuel-efficient engine but has not increased the revised model's price.
The Astra CD and CDX five-door hatch, wagon and three-door coupe models, all built in Europe, now are fitted with the new XER 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine. The new power plant has continuously adjustable camshafts, a two-step intake manifold and lighter construction. Power is up by 14 horsepower, to 138 hp. In addition, claimed fuel consumption figures for manual three- and five-door hatch models have improved slightly.
The updated Astra gets only a few changes to the headlamps, front fascia and grille, and more to the point, pricing has not changed. The cost is still equivalent to $18,275 for the CD five-door manual on up to $23,650 for the CDX wagon.
The new XER 1.8-liter engine joins 2.2-liter, 2.0-liter turbo and 1.9-liter turbo-diesel engines in the Astra lineup.
