You want a more modern Peugeot 308 SW? The Astra Sports Tourer is the perfect choice.
Wagons are rare in America, but estate enthusiasts can dream of Europe. There are many compact and midsize models that offer a long-roof option on the Old Continent. Other smaller versions, such as the Skoda Fabia Combi or Lada Granta SW, also available. Opel Astra’s wagon variant has been available since 1992. Now, it is moving to the L generation.
We have seen the compact hatchback and can easily imagine the Astra Sports Tourer. The new rendering by Kolesa digitally removes camouflage in spy photos we shared at the start of the month. These images might have been missed as the IAA Munich was still in full swing. Our spies also returned with new shots showing a prototype with a disguised rear. I’m
The Opel Astra is just as stylish as a wagon and, dare we say it, has a cleaner design than the Peugeot 308 SW. Some have been critical of its busy design. The final decision is up to you. There are no right or wrong answers. It all comes down to personal taste.
It’s all about the wagon’s cargo capacity. The wagon’s capacity is 608 liters (21.5 cuft) in comparison to the French counterpart, the 308 hatchback. Its 412 liters (14.5 cuft) cargo compartment can hold the wagon’s 408 liters (14.5 cuft). We expect the Sports Tourer will out-load the 308 SW’s cargo volume, which is slightly larger than the Astra hatch’s 422 liters (14.9 cubic feet). It will probably fall short of the Dacia Jogger, which has a 708 liter (25 cuft) cargo compartment and rear seats.
The Astra hatchback, which will be available in Europe starting next month, will be manufactured in Germany. It is expected to be followed by the wagon very soon. Each body style will be available with a choice between gasoline or diesel engines, which mirrors the Peugeot 308, and a plug in hybrid powertrain that is unique to Astra.
We wouldn’t be surprised if the hotter 308 versions are ruled out. This means that there is no GTi or Peugeot Sport Engineered hot-hat. The VW Group has a range of compact, sportier cars available, including wagon versions, such as the Octavia Combi RS and VW Golf R Variant and the Cupra Leon Sportstourer.