Vauxhall Astra - Fourth Generation (1998-2004)

Fourth Generation (1998-2004)

Released in 1998, the MK4 addressed many of the criticisms of the MK3 in the UK with greatly improved ride and handling. The growing emphasis on safety was also reflected in greater body rigidity, resulting in a Euro NCAP 4 star crash test rating, considered excellent for its time. In the UK the MK4 Astra was available with a range of 16v Ecotec engines as well some 8v units. The 8v unit was refined during the model's life however, with the Z16SE offering good all round performance compared with its higher insurance 16v equivalent. In addition to the standard hatchback, the MK4 also had a popular choice of the coupé. This was available in four petrol engine types:

• The 1.6 Produced 101 bhp (75 kW; 102 PS).
• The 1.8 produced 125 bhp (93 kW; 127 PS).
• The 2.2 produced 147 bhp (110 kW; 149 PS).
• The 2.0 Turbocharged produced 189 bhp (141 kW; 192 PS) SRI Turbo and 197 bhp (147 kW; 200 PS) GSI Turbo Variant.

There were also two diesel variants:

• The 1.7 DTi producing 75 bhp (56 kW; 76 PS).
• The 1.7 CDTi producing 100 bhp (75 kW; 101 PS).