Ruesselsheim, Germany - The new Opel Astra is celebrating its debut at the Frankfurt Motor Show later this year with the latest photos revealing some similarity to the Insignia and more interior space and other comfort features than the predecessor model.

The wheelbase is 17 centimetres longer at 4.42 metres than the previous model and is fitted with the same Flexride chassis system as its bigger Insignia brother with the driver choosing at the press of a button between standard, sport and touring mode.

Other technical details are adaptive bi-xenon headlights that adjust range and light intensity to nine different road conditions. A front camera is linked to a road sign recognition and lane-assist system.

According to Opel, customers will have the choice of nine engines, all complying with the Euro 5 emission regulations. The turbodiesel range fitted with common-rail diesel is in the range of between 95 and 160 hp. The petrol versions are sized between 100 and 180 hp. An economical Ecoflex version will also be on offer.

The Astra range goes back to a 70-year company history in the compact class with the first Opel Kadett launched in 1936.(dpa)