The Geneva Motor show opens today (March 6th). As one of the biggest events in the industry, it will outline a host of new car deals that will be available to the public in the coming months.
One of the most important will see the introduction of the new 1.6 CDTi engine in the Vauxhall Astra. Previously only available on the Zafira Tourer and the Meriva, the so-called whisper engine is set to enhance the appeal of the popular model even more.
The high-tech diesel powerplant comes in two versions. A 110PS variant achieves 76.3 mpg combined with CO2 emissions of 97g/km, while a bigger 136PS engine is capable of 72.4 mpg combined with emissions of 104g/km.
As well as the impressive sustainability stats, the other major selling point of the 1.6 CDTi will be its ultra-quiet operation. An efficient combustion process, re-designed components and the use of acoustic covers has allowed Vauxhall's engineers to make one of the quietest diesel engines ever seen on UK roads.
The Euro 6-compliant innovation is best-in-class for noise and vibration generation and well worth the €50 million (£41 million) Vauxhall has invested in the development and optimisation of five and six-speed gearboxes for it. In the Astra, the six-speed box will allow the driver to shift faster, slicker and with less effort.
Stuart Harris, Vauxhall's Head of Carline Brand, said: "We are delighted to introduce the 1.6-litre whisper diesel to the top-selling Astra range. The new 1.6-litre engine is Vauxhall's cleanest ever mid-size diesel and is now available on the
Astra, as well as Meriva and Zafira Tourer."
The Astra with the 1.6 CDTi engine is now available to order with the first deliveries expected to roll out from next month. The car will come in five-door hatchback and sports tourer designs.
Geneva hosts its annual Motor Show until March 16th.
Posted by Perry Murray