2010 Astra – the advert

Vauxhall / Opel are pushing the boat out with an advert for the 2010 Astra

The 2010 Astra – whether it’s an Opel or a Vauxhall - is a very big deal for GM in Europe. So it’s probably just as well that it’s got a lot going for it. There’s something for everyone from the entry level Astra (the Exclusiv 1.4i) with 86bhp and a decent spec which includes Aircon, to the replacement for the old Astra 1.8 SRi – the SRi 1.4 Turbo.

The new SRi cleverly manages to deliver the same 138bhp as the old 1.8 litre SRi but does it whilst producing emissions that are 18% lower. So what, you may ask, if you’re a climate-change cynic? Well, because of the daft company car taxation system in the UK the new SRi will cost you a whole chunk less tax – down a huge seven bands – which is not to be sniffed at.

The new Astra has certainly saved Ellesmere Port from any huge redundancies in the GM shake-up and to keep the production wheels churning at full tilt Vauxhall / Opel are throwing money at advertising the Astra. Which is good to see. There’s been enough hiding in a hole from car makers in the last year, so it’s great they’re coming out fighting with some half-decent marketing.

You’ve probably seen the TV ad for the Astra recently, but it looks like Vauxhall/Opel went the whole hog on this shoot and produced a full-length cinema-style version. Don’t get me wrong, it’s not a 90 minute epic, but at over three minutes it’s too long for TV.

The story is the same as the TV advert, but because it’s a sensible length it sort of makes more sense. Still a bit contrived with a baddie Casino owner and a bunch of James Bond types floating around and lots of shots of the Astra looking appropriate, stylish and elegant.

As I said, good to see Vauxhall / Opel making an effort.

By Cars UK