GM Launches Output of New-Gen Holden Astra in Poland

VIENNA – The first new-generation Holden-badged Opel Astra 5-door hatchbacks destined for Australia and New Zealand left the assembly line at the General Motors Mfg. Poland plant in Gliwice this week.

The first car to roll out is a red Holden Astra powered by a 150-hp, 1.4L turbocharged 4-cyl. that will be delivered to a customer in Australia.

“To date, in Europe we have already received more than 250,000 orders (for the new Astra),” GMMP General Manager Andrzej Korpak says in a statement. “We are very proud that this Gliwice-made best-selling model will be offered in the markets of Australia and New Zealand as well.”

Series output of the new Astra wearing Opel and Vauxhall badges was launched in Poland last September.

In addition to Poland, the Opel/Vauxhall Astra model range also is manufactured in Ellesmere Port, U.K.

The Gliwice plant already produces Holden Astra GTC and Astra VXR models, both based on the previous-generation Astra, as well as the Holden Cascada and U.S.-bound Buick Cascada convertibles.