The sixth-generation Opel Astra (Generation L), sold as the Vauxhall Astra in the UK, marks a radical departure from its General Motors-era predecessors. Built on the Stellantis EMP2 V3 platform, it shares its underpinnings with the Peugeot 308 III and DS 4. It introduces the striking 'Opel Vizor' front fascia and the 'Pure Panel' dual-screen digital cockpit. Unlike its French cousins, Opel retained physical buttons for essential climate controls, earning high praise for ergonomics. The Astra L is the first in its lineage to offer a complete spectrum of powertrains: traditional internal combustion, mild-hybrid (MHEV), plug-in hybrid (PHEV), and a fully electric version (Astra Electric).
The Opel Astra L is arguably the most attractive and ergonomically sound vehicle in the Stellantis compact lineup. By keeping physical buttons, Opel fixed the main complaint buyers have with the Peugeot 308. However, reliability heavily depends on the chosen powertrain. Early 1.2 petrols and 1.5 diesels carry known Stellantis mechanical baggage (wet belts and AdBlue/cam chains, respectively). The sweet spot of the range is the newly introduced 1.2 MHEV (which uses a reliable timing chain) or the fully electric version. If buying a used non-hybrid 1.2 petrol, a flawless service history is non-negotiable.