MG4 vs. Opel Astra Electric: Complete comparison 2026

The MG4 is a dynamic and affordable electric hatchback that has significantly shaken up the electric vehicle market. Against it stands the Opel Astra Electric, the all-electric version of one of Europe's most famous models, which brings proven quality to the world of zero-emission driving. In this comparison, we'll look at how these two different approaches to the family electric car stack up against each other.

Exterior Dimensions: A Clash of Concepts

Looking at the MG4 and the Opel Astra Electric, it's clear that although both cars fall into the same compact hatchback segment, each takes a slightly different approach to design and spaciousness. The Opel Astra is longer and wider overall, which gives it the feel of a more mature and settled car on the road. Its proportions are more classic, building on the long history of the Astra model.

On the other hand, the MG4, built on a purely electric platform, takes full advantage of its benefits. Although it is shorter, it has a significantly longer wheelbase. This key difference is reflected primarily in the interior space. The MG4 is also noticeably taller, which promises a more airy cabin and more comfortable entry. The choice between them will therefore depend on whether you prefer traditional dimensions and elegance, or a modern concept of space and practicality given by the electric architecture.

Key Dimensions Comparison

The biggest difference between the two cars is in their length and wheelbase. The Opel Astra Electric outgrows the MG4 by a noticeable 87 mm, which can be seen, for example, in the boot volume. If that's not enough, Opel also offers a more practical Sports Tourer estate version. In contrast, the MG4 benefits from a 30 mm longer wheelbase, a typical advantage of cars on a dedicated electric platform – the wheels are pushed further into the corners of the body. This usually means more legroom for rear passengers. The MG4 is also taller, which you'll appreciate for both entry and headroom.

Boot Volume: A Close Hatchback Battle, but Opel Has an Ace Up Its Sleeve

When choosing an electric car in the compact class, practicality and boot size play a key role, especially for families or active individuals. At first glance, the MG4 and the Opel Astra Electric may seem to offer almost identical figures, but a closer look reveals crucial differences that could influence your decision.

In the basic seating arrangement, the contest is very close. The MG4, depending on the specific version from 2022-2025, provides a volume between 350 and 363 litres. The Opel Astra Electric (L generation, from 2023) counters with a figure of 352 litres. In this respect, the two cars are practically equal and can handle a regular shopping trip or a weekend getaway without any problems.

A more significant difference arises when the rear seats are folded down. While the MG4 offers a maximum volume ranging from 1165 to 1177 litres, the Opel Astra Electric provides considerably more, specifically 1268 litres. This extra 100 litres or so can be decisive when moving larger items or packing for a longer holiday. However, the Opel's biggest advantage is the existence of an estate version, called the Sports Tourer, which the MG4 does not offer. This takes practicality to a whole new level with a boot volume of 516 litres as standard and up to 1553 litres with the seats folded down, making it the clear choice for those who require maximum transport capacity.

Towing Weight: Practicality vs. Limitations

The ability to tow a trailer is still more of an exception than the rule for electric cars, and it is in this discipline that the two rivals differ dramatically. For many buyers, this parameter can be a key factor in the purchase decision. While one model offers at least basic utility, the other fails in this regard.

The MG4 comes with an unexpected advantage. All its versions, including the base model and the extended-range variant, can attach a trailer weighing up to 500 kg, both braked and unbraked. Although this is not a figure that would be sufficient for towing a large caravan, for everyday needs such as hauling garden waste, transporting materials from a DIY store, or attaching a small trailer with a motorbike, it is perfectly adequate and significantly increases the car's practicality.

On the other hand, there is the Opel Astra Electric, which, according to the manufacturer's official data, is not approved for any trailer towing weight. Its towing capacity is therefore zero. This is a major limitation for those who need to transport something, even if only occasionally. While the plug-in hybrid versions of the Astra can tow a trailer, the purely electric variant does not offer this option.

For the customer, the choice in terms of towing capacity is therefore clear. If even the slightest possibility of attaching a trailer is important to you, the MG4 is the only possible winner, as the Astra Electric completely lacks this practical feature.

Powertrain Comparison: Different Electric Philosophies

Although the MG4 and Opel Astra Electric are both pure electric vehicles, their approach to powertrains differs significantly. The MG4 focuses on diversity, offering a wide range of variants to satisfy both drivers looking for the best price-to-performance ratio and those craving a sporty experience. Rear-wheel drive is standard, which is unusual in this class, and the lineup is topped by an all-wheel-drive version. In contrast, the Opel Astra Electric chooses the path of simplicity and efficiency. It offers a single, carefully tuned front-wheel-drive variant aimed at traditional European drivers transitioning from internal combustion cars, emphasizing a balanced range and predictable handling.

MG4 Electric: Performance and Versatility First

The MG4 is built on a modern electric platform (MSP) that allows for great flexibility. This enables it to offer several battery sizes and, as one of the few hatchbacks in the segment, rear-wheel drive for a better driving experience. The range starts with a basic version with a 51kWh battery, continues with the popular 64kWh variant, and ends with an extended-range model with a 77kWh battery. The absolute pinnacle is the sporty XPOWER version with all-wheel drive, two electric motors, and crushing performance that makes it a true electric hot-hatch.

Opel Astra Electric: Betting on a Single Card

With the Astra Electric, Opel has opted for a simple and clear strategy for the customer. It offers only one powertrain version, which is, however, focused on maximum efficiency. The car uses a new generation electric motor with 115 kW (156 hp) and 270 Nm of torque, which drives the front wheels. It draws energy from a 54 kWh battery (51 kWh usable capacity), which is intended to provide a solid range of up to 418 km according to the WLTP cycle. This "one engine for all" approach is the same for both the hatchback body and the more practical Sports Tourer estate.

Who will choose?

• The MG4 is the ideal choice for drivers who want options. The base version is one of the most affordable ways to get a new family electric car, the larger battery variants will satisfy those who often travel long distances, and the XPOWER model is unbeatable for fast driving enthusiasts.
• The Opel Astra Electric will appeal more to conservative customers looking for a direct and simple replacement for their current internal combustion engine car. It offers familiar front-wheel-drive handling, high operational efficiency, and the build quality of a German brand without the need to complicatedly configure different battery and performance versions.

Choosing the right powertrain is key to long-term satisfaction with a car. In the case of these two electric vehicles, you are deciding between different philosophies. While MG offers several performance and battery capacity variants, Opel has bet on a single, yet carefully tuned option. Our recommendations are based on a combination of performance, real-world range, reliability, and user experience.

For the MG4, we recommend: Comfort / Luxury version (150 kW, 64 kWh)

While the basic version with the 51kWh battery may be the most affordable entry into the world of MG for some, we consider the variant with the larger, 64kWh battery (usable approx. 61.7 kWh), found in the Comfort and Luxury trims, to be the optimal choice. This version represents the golden mean and the best ratio of price, range, and performance in the entire model line.

• Why it's the best choice: With 150 kW (204 hp) of power and 250 Nm of torque delivered to the rear wheels, the MG4 in this specification offers very brisk and enjoyable dynamics that surpass most combustion competitors in its class. The official WLTP range reaches up to 450 km (for the Comfort version); in the real world, you can count on a reliable 300 to 380 km depending on driving style and outside temperature. This is more than sufficient not only for urban and suburban driving but also for longer trips across the country.
• Technical advantages: This version uses an NMC (Nickel-Manganese-Cobalt) type battery, which allows for fast charging at up to 135 kW. At a compatible station, you can charge from 10% to 80% in about 35 minutes. The onboard charger for alternating current (AC) has a power of 11 kW, which means a full charge from a home wallbox in about 6.5 hours. Additionally, the rear-wheel drive provides the car with agile and predictable handling.
• Risks and weaknesses: As with any electric car, battery condition is key. The real-world range drops more significantly in the winter months, often by 25–30%, due to the need for cabin heating and the lower efficiency of chemical processes in the battery. Some owners also complain about simpler materials in the interior and occasional minor flaws in the infotainment software, which the manufacturer is gradually addressing with updates.
• Who is it ideal for: For the driver looking for a dynamic, fun, and practical electric car with sufficient range for daily use and occasional longer trips. If the price-to-utility ratio is key for you, this version of the MG4 is hard to beat.

For the Opel Astra Electric, we recommend: Electric (115 kW, 54 kWh)

Opel has chosen the opposite strategy to MG and offers a single powertrain option for the Astra Electric model. So you don't have to make a complicated choice – the carmaker has done it for you, focusing on maximum efficiency and driving comfort, which are traditional values of the brand.

• Why it's a good choice: Although the 115 kW (156 hp) output is lower on paper than the recommended MG4, in practice it is perfectly adequate for both normal and brisker driving. The 270 Nm of torque is available instantly, ensuring pleasant flexibility. However, the main asset of the Astra Electric is its efficiency. Opel boasts one of the lowest consumption figures in its class, often hovering around 15-16 kWh/100 km in real-world conditions.
• Technical strengths: The 54 kWh battery (51 kWh usable) promises a WLTP range of up to 418 km. In the real world, you can count on 280 to 350 km. The Astra supports fast charging at up to 100 kW, allowing it to charge from 20% to 80% in about 30 minutes. The onboard AC charger has a standard output of 11 kW. Compared to the MG4, the Astra's chassis feels more comfortable and mature, filtering out bumps better and focusing on a calm and relaxed ride.
• Risks and weaknesses: The single available powertrain means that if you desire more power, you'll have to look elsewhere. The range is slightly shorter than that of a comparable MG4 with a larger battery, which can be a limitation for drivers who regularly travel very long distances. The CMP platform, shared with combustion and hybrid versions, means certain compromises in the interior space layout compared to cars built on a purely electric architecture.
• Who it's ideal for: For the driver who prioritizes ride comfort, build quality, and above all, low running costs due to excellent efficiency. It's a great choice for those switching from a combustion engine car who want the familiar feel of a solid European hatchback, just in a quiet and economical electric package.

Consumption: Reality versus official figures

Official electricity consumption figures, measured in the WLTP cycle, are often the first guide for buyers. However, in real-world operation, consumption can vary depending on driving style, weather conditions, temperature, and route profile. To get the most accurate picture, we rely on data from real drivers, for example from the German portal Spritmonitor.de, as well as on the results of editorial tests that reveal how both cars perform in daily use.

Both cars are modern electric vehicles where manufacturers have emphasized efficiency. Nevertheless, there are interesting differences between them that can play a role in the decision-making process.

Who is more economical and what does it mean in practice?

Looking at the table, it is clear that the Opel Astra Electric shows slightly lower consumption in the real world. Long-term tests and user data show that the Astra can be driven with a consumption ranging from 16.5 to 18.9 kWh/100 km. The German hatchback can be very economical, especially with a calmer driving style and in the city.

The MG4 with the larger 64 kWh battery has a slightly higher appetite according to drivers' experiences, averaging between 17.5 and 20.2 kWh/100 km. This difference is not dramatic, but in the long run, it may have a slight impact on "fuel" costs. The slightly higher consumption can be attributed to the different concept with rear-wheel drive and perhaps less sophisticated aerodynamics compared to the Opel.

For the typical user, this means that while both cars will offer low running costs, the Astra has the potential to be a few cents cheaper per 100 kilometers. For drivers who often travel longer distances, the Astra's lower consumption can mean a few valuable extra kilometers of real-world range, reducing the stress of finding a charger. In the winter months, an increase in consumption must be expected for both models, but the percentage difference between them is likely to remain similar.

However, the electricity consumption is not so different as to be a decisive factor in itself. The choice between these two cars will rather depend on preferences in design, battery size, charging speed, interior space, and last but not least, the purchase price.

Used Car Price Range: MG4 as the more affordable option

When comparing the prices of used cars, one of the fundamental differences between the MG4 and the Opel Astra Electric becomes apparent. Both models have been on the market for a relatively short time, so the supply of used cars consists mainly of one or two-year-old vehicles with low mileage. Even so, there is a significant price difference that mirrors the brands' strategies for new cars.

MG4: Aggressive pricing even on the used car market

Even as a used car, the MG4 maintains its reputation as an affordable electric vehicle. The prices of the oldest and most used units, typically from 2023 and in the basic trim with a smaller battery, start at around €19,000. These cars represent a very attractive entry into the world of modern electromobility.

If you are looking for better-equipped versions with a larger battery, such as the Elegance or Luxury variants, prepare an amount in the range of from €23,000 to approximately €29,000. Even in this case, however, it is a very competitive offer compared to other electric hatchbacks on the market.

Opel Astra Electric: European quality holds its price

The Opel Astra Electric is noticeably more expensive on the used car market. Its price reflects the higher purchase price of a new car and the position of an established European brand. Used models from the first years of production (2023-2024) usually range in price from €27,000 to €33,000.

The supply of used electric Astras is still more limited, which also helps to maintain higher prices. Unlike the MG4, where you can find cars for under half a million crowns, such a price is currently unrealistic for the Astra. The buyer is paying extra for the design, perceived interior quality, and the image of a traditional brand.

Price Summary:

While the MG4 clearly targets customers looking for maximum value for their money, the Opel Astra Electric will appeal to those willing to pay extra for an established name and design, even if it means a higher investment in the used car market.

Safety: Five Stars for MG, Four for Opel

Although both cars underwent Euro NCAP tests in the same year, their results differ. It is important to realise that testing methodologies are constantly becoming stricter, and therefore ratings from different years cannot be directly compared. In this case, however, the tests were conducted in 2022, which gives us a relevant comparison of the safety levels of both models according to the standards of that time.

MG4: A Five-Star Standard

The MG4 received the maximum five-star rating from Euro NCAP tests in 2022, confirming a high level of safety built on the new Modular Scalable Platform (MSP). The car achieved solid results in all key areas: adult occupant protection was rated at 83% and child protection at 80%. Protection for vulnerable road users, such as pedestrians and cyclists, reached 75%, and the safety assist systems category scored 78%. All versions of the MG4 come standard with the MG Pilot assistance systems package, which includes features like active emergency braking and adaptive cruise control.

Opel Astra Electric: A Solid Four Stars

The Opel Astra, whose rating also applies to the electric version, received four stars in the 2022 Euro NCAP tests. Although this is a good result, it was not enough for five stars. According to Euro NCAP, the reason is the absence of some of the latest assistance technologies and a missing centre airbag, which protects occupants in a side impact. In the individual categories, the Astra scored 80% for adult occupant protection and 82% for child protection. However, it lags behind the MG4 in the protection of vulnerable road users and safety assist systems, with scores of 67% and 66% respectively.

Verdict: The MG4 Offers More Comprehensive Protection

Although both cars are safe, the MG4 is the winner in this comparison. Achieving five Euro NCAP stars and more balanced, higher overall scores in all monitored categories, especially in safety assist systems and pedestrian protection, make it a slightly more modern and comprehensively equipped car from a safety perspective. The four stars for the Astra are still a respectable result, but they indicate a slight technological gap and the absence of some features that are becoming standard.

In addition to standard equipment, each model offers several unique features that can be decisive for an undecided customer. While the MG4 focuses on bold design and smart technology, the Opel Astra Electric sticks to proven German precision and practicality.

MG4: Bold Technology and a Sporting Spirit

The MG4 presents itself as a dynamic and technologically advanced hatchback that isn't afraid to stand out from the crowd. It offers a range of smart solutions and sporty elements aimed at the modern driver.

• Platform and Drivetrain for Driving Pleasure: The MG4 is built on the modern, all-electric MSP (Modular Scalable Platform). This architecture allows for rear-wheel drive and an ideal 50:50 weight distribution, which, combined with a low centre of gravity, ensures excellent handling and agility in corners. For the driver, this means more fun behind the wheel.
• iSMART System and Mobile Connectivity: The infotainment system with a 10.25-inch screen is complemented by the smart MG iSMART mobile app. It allows you to remotely control car functions such as preheating or cooling the cabin, checking the charging status, or scheduling charging.
• V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) Functionality: A practical feature that turns the MG4 into a mobile power bank. Using a special adapter, you can power external devices up to 2.2 kW from the car's battery, which is useful for camping or as a backup power source.
• Rich Standard Equipment: MG has opted for a strategy of generous standard equipment. Even in the lower trim levels, customers get features that are often optional elsewhere, such as adaptive cruise control, MG Pilot assistance systems, or LED headlights.
• XPOWER Sport Version: For performance enthusiasts, there is the XPOWER version with dual electric motors, all-wheel drive, and a staggering output of 320 kW (435 hp). Its acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in 3.8 seconds puts it on par with sports cars.

Opel Astra Electric: German Precision and Comfort

The Opel Astra Electric prides itself on being, above all, a "normal" car, just with an electric powertrain. It focuses on build quality, proven technology, and features that enhance everyday usability without unnecessary frills.

• Digital Pure Panel Cockpit: The interior is dominated by a widescreen panel that elegantly combines two 10-inch displays – the digital instrument cluster and the infotainment screen. The goal was to create a clean and intuitive environment with minimal distractions.
• Top-of-the-line Intelli-Lux LED® Pixel Headlights: The Astra brings adaptive headlight technology to its class, a feature usually found in premium cars. Each headlight consists of 168 individual LED segments (84 per side), which allow it to precisely "cut out" surrounding traffic and use the high beams continuously without dazzling other drivers. This significantly increases safety when driving at night.
• Emphasis on Ergonomics and Comfort: Opel offers ergonomic seats for the Astra certified by AGR (Campaign for Healthier Backs). They are designed for maximum comfort and body support, even on long journeys.
• Conservative yet functional design: While some competitors opt for a futuristic look, the Astra sticks to an elegant and timeless design. A characteristic feature is the "Opel Vizor" front grille, which integrates the headlights, sensors, and logo into a single smooth black band.
• Practical estate body style: Unlike the MG4, the Astra Electric is available not only as a hatchback but also as a spacious Sports Tourer estate. This makes it one of the first fully electric estates on the European market and a clear choice for families and those who need a large luggage compartment.

MG4

Advantages:

• Excellent value for money: Compared to its European competition, the MG4 offers an exceptionally attractive purchase price, making it one of the most affordable full-fledged electric cars on the market.
• Fun driving characteristics: Thanks to its rear-wheel drive and well-tuned chassis, the MG4 provides an agile and enjoyable driving experience that is not a given in this class. Additionally, the stability control system can be completely turned off.
• Decent real-world range and efficiency: The version with the larger battery (64 kWh) offers a real-world range of over 300-350 km, with consumption staying at favourable levels around 15 kWh/100 km during calm driving.
• Fast charging: The version with the larger battery achieves a charging power of up to 135 kW, allowing it to charge from 10 to 80% in approximately 35 minutes.
• Standard V2L (Vehicle-to-Load) feature: All models come standard with the V2L function, which allows you to power external electrical devices directly from the car's battery.
• Seven-year warranty: An above-standard factory warranty of 7 years or 150,000 km provides owners with peace of mind and security.

Disadvantages:

• Interior and infotainment: Some materials in the cabin feel cheaper, and older versions of the infotainment system can be slower and less intuitive.
• Suspension comfort: The chassis is tuned to be rather firm, which can mean reduced ride comfort on poor-quality roads.
• Limited top speed: The maximum speed is electronically limited to 160 km/h, which may be a constraint for some drivers on the German autobahn.
• Less spacious boot: The basic boot capacity of 363 litres is rather average and lags behind some competitors in the segment.

Opel Astra Electric

Advantages:

• High efficiency and low consumption: The Astra is exemplarily economical, with average consumption figures around 15 kWh/100 km, contributing to a solid real-world range even with a smaller battery.
• Comfortable and refined chassis: The chassis tuning excellently absorbs bumps even on larger 18-inch wheels, and the ride is overall very pleasant and quiet.
• Conservative and user-friendly interior: The cabin retains a classic layout with physical buttons for key functions, which makes operation and orientation easier.
• Availability of the estate body style: As one of the few electric cars in the compact class, the Astra is also available in a practical estate version (Sports Tourer) with a voluminous luggage compartment (516 litres).
• High-quality Intelli-Lux LED® Matrix headlights: The optional matrix headlights with 84 segments in each light are among the best in the segment and significantly increase safety when driving at night.

Disadvantages:

• Higher purchase price: In a direct comparison with the MG4, the Astra Electric is significantly more expensive, which can be a key factor for many potential buyers.
• Average dynamics: With a power output of 115 kW (156 hp) and acceleration from 0-100 km/h in 9.2 seconds, the Astra does not offer the same dynamics as most electric cars and feels rather deliberate.
• Slower DC charging: The maximum charging power of 100 kW is rather below average by today's standards and extends the time spent at charging stations.
• Limited choice of powertrains: The Astra Electric is only available with one engine and battery variant, which limits the options for customers.
• Use of glossy plastics in the interior: The centre console is covered in glossy black plastic, which is prone to fingerprints, dust, and scratches.

Based on our own CarAudit inspections, breakdown statistics, and user feedback, we have compiled an overview of the most common problems that used car buyers should look out for. Although both models are relatively new, they have already shown some characteristic faults.

MG4: A Newcomer's Teething Problems

The MG4 entered the market as an affordable electric car, which unfortunately has resulted in some compromises in terms of reliability and quality. Fortunately, most of the problems are more of a nuisance than fatal flaws.

• Software and infotainment: The most frequent complaints from owners are directed at the onboard software. The infotainment system can be slow, occasionally freezes, or restarts on its own. Connectivity issues with phones via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also not uncommon. A separate issue is the assistance systems – particularly the Lane Keep Assist (LKA) behaves erratically, and its interventions are often insensitive and intrusive. MG is trying to address these shortcomings with software updates.
• 12V battery: A relatively large number of owners report problems with the 12V battery, which can discharge on its own if the car is left standing for more than a few days. This makes it impossible to unlock and start the vehicle. The cause is likely a poorly configured charging management system from the main, high-voltage battery.
• Charging problems: There have been reports of onboard AC charger failures. The car then cannot be charged with alternating current from a home wallbox or public slow charging stations. This is a fault that is resolved under warranty.
• Build quality and chassis: Some early production cars show poorer build quality, such as uneven body panel alignment or lower-quality paintwork. Owners of the high-performance XPower version complain of significant vibrations at highway speeds, the cause of which is still being investigated. An occasional oil leak from the reduction gearbox has been noted on all models. A thorough physical inspection of the used car is key here.
• Recalls: Cars manufactured between June and October 2022 were part of a recall due to the risk that the car could lock itself without being able to be opened from the inside or outside. The problem was solved by a software update.

Overall, the MG4's problems are more of an annoying nature and are related to the rapid development and tuning of the software. Mechanical faults are less common, but it's good to be aware of them when buying a used model.

Opel Astra Electric: A Solid Foundation with Occasional Glitches

The Opel Astra benefits from the proven Stellantis group platform, which has a positive effect on its overall mechanical reliability. Nevertheless, it has not been immune to some of the electronic issues typical of modern cars.

• Electronics and software: Similar to the MG, software bugs can also appear here. Users report the infotainment screen occasionally freezing or going black, or random error messages that disappear after a restart. In some cases, the control unit software had to be re-flashed at a service center due to a non-functional navigation system or other electrical problems.
• High-voltage system: There have been isolated cases where the car displayed a high-voltage system error and went into limp mode with reduced power. The cause was usually a faulty sensor in the battery management system, which is fixable under warranty.
• Immobilizer: A few owners have encountered a problem where the car would not start due to an immobilizer error. This was also a software bug that the service center resolved by re-flashing the control unit.
• Recalls: A recall was issued for Astras manufactured in 2023 due to a possible communication error between the engine and body control units. This error could theoretically cause the car to move in the opposite direction to the one selected when setting off. When buying a used car, it is necessary to verify that this action has been performed.

The Opel Astra Electric appears to be a more reliable car in terms of hardware. Its problems are almost exclusively software-related and often solvable with a simple restart or an update at a service center. Thanks to fewer specific "teething problems," it comes across as a more mature product, although it is not 100% flawless either. An independent check of the car's technical condition before purchase is always recommended.

When buying a used car, a thorough inspection is key, and electric cars are no exception. Here are a few specific points to focus on with these two models to avoid potential problems.

When Choosing an MG4

• Software version and infotainment response: Check that the latest software version is installed in the car. Older versions may have had stability issues and occasional reboots. During a test drive, try out the touch response speed and the smoothness of transitions between menus.
• Battery condition and range: Before the test drive, make sure the car is fully charged. Monitor how quickly the charge percentage drops and what range the trip computer displays. Any significant and rapid drop may indicate a degraded battery condition.
• Behavior of assistance systems: Thoroughly test the adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist (LKA) functions. Some cars have been reported to have overly eager or, conversely, delayed reactions, which can be unpleasant while driving.
• Noises from the chassis and steering: While driving over bumps, listen for any knocking or creaking sounds from the axles. Due to the higher weight of electric cars, the chassis can suffer more than in combustion engine cars. Such a comprehensive vehicle check is always a safe bet.
• Functionality of the heat pump (on higher trims): If the car is equipped with a heat pump, verify its functionality by turning on the heating. A properly functioning pump should heat the cabin efficiently without a dramatic impact on the range, especially in colder weather.

When Choosing an Opel Astra Electric

• Brake pedal test: Focus on the smoothness and consistency of the brake pedal when transitioning between regenerative and mechanical braking. Any juddering or inconsistent response may signal a problem in the system.
• Real-world range and the trip computer: Just like with the MG4, monitoring the range is key here. The Astra's trip computer should show realistic values. Compare them with long-term consumption data if available. A low range compared to the stated values may indicate battery degradation.
• Charging port and cable inspection: Carefully check the condition of the charging port for mechanical damage or corrosion. Test the functionality of both AC and DC charging if you have the opportunity. Charging problems can be expensive to repair.
• Displays and infotainment: The Opel Pure Panel system is modern, but verify that both displays work flawlessly, have no dead pixels, and that the touch controls respond correctly. Click through all the functions, including navigation and phone connectivity. A thorough physical inspection of the car will also reveal hidden software flaws.
• Noise at low speeds: When driving slowly, for example in a parking lot, listen carefully. Apart from the artificial external sound (AVAS), you should not hear any unusual whistling, humming, or clicking from the powertrain.

Sources: ADAC, mdcr.cz, novinky.cz, mobilmania.cz, chytreauto.cz, carstyle.cz

This article was prepared using artificial intelligence tools. The section guarantor is Petr Dušek.