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Steinmetz Astra H Review

September 2005
Filed under: STEINMETZ Car News | STEINMETZ Headlines
The Astra H is the new Opel badge in the compact class. Comparison tests have given the Astra H top scores, so we set ourselves a challenge: "Can it get any better?". The focal point for our component development was therefore dynamic performance paired with sporting components.

Engine:


A performance upgrade for the new 1.7 CDTI Common Rail Diesel is currently in development which will give the diesel a higher torque and more agile acceleration.

Exhaust:


One of the Steinmetz trademarks is the high gloss polished, trapezoid twin tailpipe silencer. On the left or left/right, the unmistakable appearance and sound leaves nothing to be desired, and the perfect quality of fit is the convincing touch. The twin tailpipe silencers can be fitted with or without rear skirt.

Lowering / Suspension:


The Steinmetz kit giving lowering of around 30 mm was not developed for looks alone, but contributes essentially to increased safety and uncompromising driving pleasure. Both the standard suspension and the sports suspension with sports mode can be used. The Steinmetz springs lower the Astra's centre of gravity, hence reducing its tendency to roll on cornering and allowing faster direction changes. The springs from the Steinmetz lowering kit are fitted, and the specially matched spring struts make all roads into a great driving experience.

Wheel/tyre combination:


Much of the Astra H's sporting appearance is due to the Steinmetz alloy wheels available in two different designs. Firstly there is the Type ST1 with closed spokes, and secondly the type ST3 with open spokes and a slight outward curvature. Both designs are available in 4-hole and 5-hole versions, in various sizes. Up to the 18" wheel/tyre combination, no adaptation work is required on the vehicle for the wheel sets below. Steinmetz recommends tyres by Michelin or Continental.

Bodywork/aerodynamics:


The Steinmetz designers have worked on the new Astra with precision and dedication, and incorporated the dynamic centre line in their design.

A striking exterior sign of Steinmetz is the honeycomb front grille. For the Astra one front grille has been developed for above the badge and one below. Together they combine to make the front into a powerful trapezoid unit and emphasise the new, unmistakable face of the Opel front. To the left and right of the lower Steinmetz front grille, air inlets have been developed which firstly highlight the front further and secondly provide more cooling air for the brakes. The front is completed by the Steinmetz front spoiler which fits perfectly onto the standard skirt.

Continuing the styling lines to the rear, the side skirts have been designed to give the Astra visually an even lower appearance. Rearward vision is provided by the electrically adjustable, heated Steinmetz sports mirrors which have been adapted to the shape of the Astra.

The solid rear roof spoiler ensures more downforce on the rear axle. Finally, creating a harmonious visual line with the side skirts and the front skirt, the Steinmetz rear skirt has been developed which offers the Astra driver a full choice of rear silencers. Standard, left or left/right - the rear skirt has been designed to leave (almost!) no wish unanswered.

Further bodystyling accessories include designer stripes in silver or anthracite, and the aluminium filler cap trim. Accuracy of fit and smooth transitions make the Steinmetz Astra into a new, individual vehicle.

Interior trim:


Steinmetz Opel-Tuning has adapted the aluminium gear knob with reverse gear release for the Astra H. This sits perfectly in the hand for smooth changes. The interior is complemented by the aluminium handbrake handle, the 3-piece aluminium pedal set and the aluminium foot rest. Finally the Steinmetz interior is completed by the 4-piece foot mats with Steinmetz logo in stainless steel, and sill trim strips.

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