The Opel Astra has been absent from the sedan segment since the demise of the OPC division, but tuners are looking to correct this injustice. In addition to offering a number of innovations for the entire Astra range, Irmscher introduced a design study called Astra IRC with a wild motorsport-inspired look.
The company claims that the Opel Astra IRC is animated by the World Rally Championship, but to our eyes it looks more like a walking racing car. The highlight is the especially wide front and rear fenders with built-in air vents, which cover the 20-inch Hydra Star. Alloy wheels.
Up front, the Astra benefits from a redesigned bumper with larger air intakes and a generously sized splitter. The same theme continues at the rear, where a wide diffuser incorporates two exhaust pipes and a third brake light. The most notable feature, however, is the large rear spoiler with swan-shaped mounts, which is overkill for a road sedan.
Read more: Opel Astra gives the impression of an attractive sedan thanks to Irmscher
Irmscher didn’t mention any chassis improvements, but it’s clear that the Opel Astra IRC relies on lower springs and wider tracks. In terms of power, the company is aiming for 256 hp (191 kW / 260 hp), which largely matches. The refreshed VW Golf GTI, but it’s still far behind more productive sedans like the Mercedes-AMG A45 S and Audi RS3. Sportback.
The pointed strength leads us to the fact that the structure is based on the Opel Astra GSe, lately the flagship of the range. The hot sedan is equipped with a plug-in hybrid powertrain that includes a 1. 6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine and a single electric motor. Combined power is 222 hp (165 kW / 225 hp) and 360 Nm (265. 5 lb-ft) of torque, sent to the front axle via an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Some modifications to the combustion engine may allow Irmscher to achieve the desired power, but the wild exterior makes us need to know more. A great option would be the tougher 296 hp (221 kW/300 hp) plug-in AWD engine. hybrid configuration of the Opel Grandland GSe, although it is not present in the Astra.
The tuner from Remshalden presented the Opel Astra IRC in renders. However, it is conceivable that the model will be produced in small quantities. Irmschrer didn’t go into detail, but we think they will continue the progression if there is enough interest from futures. clients.