Earlier in 2012 we reported that Opel would be launching a new Astra sedan. Now it seems the German automaker will be boosting the model line-up even further.

Our spy photographers braved frigid northern Europe to capture images of Opel’s new Astra estate.

The model in our spy images was undergoing undergoing handling-tests in frigid conditions. The new model looks like its borrowed much of its styling from the Insignia sedan especially at the rear.

The new model set to make its debut at the 2012 Paris auto show and is set to receive all but the sportier engines from the Astra hatchback range.

South Africans have never warmed up to estates but we asked General Motor’s Caroline Thomas whether the new estate would be arriving in SA: “We continue to evaluate all Opel products deemed suitable for the SA market and the decision to introduce any product will be based on the fundamentals of integral value to the brand, volume opportunity and profitability - no final decisions made at this stage.”