General Motors has launched a new model of Opel Astra in Europe. The model is on sale from 6 December and nearly 45,000 units have been booked so far since September 2009 when the bookings started. The new Opel Astra is a 5-door hatchback model that is one of the most important models in GM’s European product portfolio. Last year in 2008, General Motors sold nearly 438,000 units of Astra which is nearly a third of Opel’s overall volume in Europe. Success of the new model is crucial for General Motors for its long term sustenance in the European market.

The latest Opel Astra model is being assembled at Vauxhall’s Ellesmere Port plant. It is powered by 1.4L petrol engine with 87 bhp priced at $23,970 or Rs. 11.02 lakh.

According to one of the Opel dealers, the advertising that begun weeks ago, has started showing effect. People have started to show interest in the new model where everyone who takes test-drives also gets a free Christmas tree. General Motors' Opel plant in Poland also recently launched production of a new Opel Astra IV. General Motors is further planning to launch a ‘mini car’ that will also be available as an electric model. “In my view Opel needs a mini in today's market, that will be our top priority,” Nick Reilly, one of the carmaker's senior managers said. Currently, Opel has no entry car in Europe's fast-growing minicar segment to compete with cars such as the Ford Ka or Volkswagen's forthcoming Up!