Opel to Sell Astra OPC in Australia

Adam Opel will pump up the volume on its entry into the Down Under market with the local debut of its Astra OPC at this year’s Australian International Motor Show.

The most powerful Astra ever produced, the Opel Performance Centre model will join the auto maker’s Australia lineup in early 2013.

Powered by a 2.0L turbocharged direct-injection engine, the Astra OPC achieves a power output of up to 276 hp and maximum torque of 295 lb.-ft. (400 Nm). It can sprint 0-62 mph (100 km/h) in just 6.0 seconds.

Opel Australia Managing Director Bill Mott says the new Astra OPC, unveiled in Frankfurt a year ago, will be the most powerful hot hatch available in its segment.

“Australia has a long history of, and passion for, performance vehicles,” Mott says in a statement. “Since launch we’ve continually been asked if and when OPC is coming, and we are very excited to confirm that the Astra OPC will be in Sydney next week and will be available in our showrooms next year.”

Full pricing and specification will be announced closer to launch.

Opel began selling vehicles in Australia last month.