Astra GTC hot hatch gets diesel engine

The Astra GTC hot hatch that is coming to Australia in 2015 wearing Holden badges, is now available in the UK with a diesel engine.

Not unlike the Volkswagen Golf GTD, the Astra GTC diesel features sports suspension, big wheels, a sophisticated interior with sports seat and alloy pedals – all the trimmings – albeit with a smaller carbon footprint.

Straight line performance is not known, but the new turbocharged 1.6 CDTi 'Whisper Diesel' engine pumps out a useful 320Nm and 100kW of power, which should see the dynamic three-door accelerate hastily.

Importantly, the curvaceous new Astra GTC diesel will very economical, consuming fuel at a hybrid-like rate of just 3.9L/100km, while spitting out as little as 104g/100km.

The Euro 6-compliant engine benefits from acoustic covers to keep the noise levels low, and fuel economy is aided by an engine start-stop system, while braking energy recuperation is also a standard feature.

Holden has confirmed the Astra GTC will be coming to Australia in 2015, but GM Holden's National Manager of Product Communications, Kate Lonsdale, would neither confirm nor deny the new 'Whisper Diesel' engine for the local market.

"We've made no announcements on powertrain types for the Holden Astra GTC," she said, adding that it was "too far out to talk about potential engines".

It's unlikely the oiler will be offered here, particularly after Volkswagen pulled its similarly-equipped Golf GTD from the Australian market.

Along with the Astra GTC and hi-po VXR models, Holden will bring the Insignia VXR and Cascada convertible to Australia in 2015 as part of new plan to offer the upmarket European-built models.