There are, sadly, many car brands inaccessible to Americans. Although Skoda is the one we’d love to see on this side of the pond, we certainly wouldn't say no to Opel. The German automaker indirectly had a presence here through certain Buick models, such as the Regal (Insignia).
Despite the rise of SUVs, traditional cars remain strong in many markets. Stellantis is committed to serving buyers who prefer not to sit high, and the Opel/Vauxhall Astra is a strong example of that commitment.
Available as a hatchback and a wagon, the Astra is a compact car that competes with the once-dominant Volkswagen Golf. Until recently, it also went up against the Ford Focus, but the Blue Oval unexpectedly pulled the plug on its popular model. For 2026, Opel is refreshing the C-segment car to keep pace with current design trends, most notably by adding a front light bar bisected by an illuminated badge.
While the extra lighting elements may feel like change for the sake of change, the headlights themselves bring real benefits. Opel is introducing an enhanced version of its adaptive, glare-free technology, featuring more than 50,000 individual elements. No, that's not a typo. According to the Rüsselsheim-based automaker, the new setup reacts more effectively and quickly when partially blocking light to avoid disturbing oncoming drivers.
Additionally, these Intelli-Lux HD headlights are said to deliver superior road illumination and now include a side-light module that activates based on steering angle. Opel also notes that the LEDs automatically dim to reduce reflections from road signs, thereby minimizing driver distraction. The upgraded headlights even adjust in poor weather by reducing glare on wet surfaces.
The interior is largely carried over, but the 2026 Astra now includes more comfortable seats as standard, even on the entry-level trim. Called Intelli-Seats, they feature a central recess to reduce tailbone pressure. The seat covers are made entirely from recycled materials. Optional massaging seats with memory functionality and electro-pneumatic lumbar support are also available.
The updated Astra retains its combustion and hybrid powertrains, but Opel is eager to highlight the revised EV version. Its slightly larger battery pack, with a usable capacity of 55.4 kWh, now provides 282 miles (454 kilometers) of WLTP range. It's a 21-mile (34-kilometer) increase, which might be enough for the daily commute. From now on, the electric Astra can also power e-bikes and other external devices via a new vehicle-to-load (V2L) function.
Opel will display the facelifted Astra in both body styles at the 2026 Brussels Motor Show starting January 9.
2026 Opel Astra and Astra Sports Tourer facelift
Source: Opel
