Even as it consolidates platforms and powertrains on a global basis, General Motors still offers two mainstream compact vehicle offerings in Europe — the Opel Astra and the Chevy Cruze. Both utilize GM’s global Delta 2 platform and are very similar in dimensions.
And even though you told us that you prefer Opel’s interpretation of the Chevy Volt (aka Opel Ampera), we thought we’d ask which one of GM’s non Voltec-powered mainstream compacts you prefer. Here’s our brief overview of both model ranges.
Body Styles
While both the Cruze and Astra ranges are offered in sedan, five-door hatch, and five-door wagon body styles (ahem, in Europe), the Opel is also available in the über-sexy VW Golf/Scirocco-competing GTC as well as the drop-top Cascada. So the Opel has two extra body variants — and thus takes the lead in this round of The Clash.
Powertrain & Technology
Both the Astra and Cruze share a variety of engines, but it’s the Opel that has a wider variety… how much wider? For starters, the Astra offers eight powertrain choices, while the Cruze offers six (again, in Europe). And that’s not even counting the Astra OPC’s turbo-charged 2.0 liter mill (LHU) making 276 horses and 295 lb.-ft. of torque. Looks like the Opel wins this round, as well.
Design
Due to its highly subjective nature, this one can go either way — and it can even sway this entire clash, as design can make or break a vehicle. So we’ll let you decide which model range is more attractive.
And with that, vote away — and then tell us the reason for your vote in the comments!
Comments
I chose astra but really both look better than the focus and elantra. Saw a focus titanium today and thought it already looked dated along with the elantra
I choose Cruze. The Opel looks too Japanese for me.
Chevrolet Cruze is better looking car .
I’d want a combination of the two- a Cruze with that Astra OPC drivetrain and suspension. Come on, GM- that would be FUN! Might even find one parked next to my ’12 Cruze Eco if you make it.
Astra!
Opel Astra
Astra, I don’t mind the Cruze, it looks good. The astra though, has it beat in design and in performance as the OPC
Vauxhall Astra everytime, the Cruze doesn’t even get close
Both sedans have okay but blah styling. The Astray wins overall due to the reasons Alex said. The Astra has the gorgeous(!) GTC and decent engine options. GM thus far insists on keeping the Cruze as boring as possible, at least in NA. New 1.6L turbo desperately needed, and either Buick or Chevy needs the GTC to add some life to the lineup here.
And the Cruze Station wagon is just great
The station wagon looks great, but I’d settle for a hatchback. I’d love to buy a Volt but can’t afford one.
CruzeBe, Watched the youtube/Cruze wagon video. Wow. If they were available in US I’d buy one tomorrow! Unfortunately GM says, ‘ I don’t want one, I want an Equinox.’
Thehofinator, I agree that’s what GM thinks. But what they seem incapable of realizing is that people who want a car, want a car. Not a crossover/suv. So, often GM doesn’t have an affordable car with, for example, enough rear seat space or AWD, so they must think buyers will gravitate to a GM crossover/suv. BUT, those people want a car, so they have to buy from another automaker. As a GM fan, I have found this very frustrating for many years.
Having driven both the Astra is the better car. It is more refined in both driving dynamics and cabin quality. The Astra diesel engine is far more responsive and economical than the 1.8 petrol engine in the Cruze.
Can astra 2l engine fit on cruze 2009_2011 I’m struggling with f18d4..is it possible to fit opc 2l turbo…2.0L 16V A20NHT on 1.8 cruze LT