Astra Pyrios

## Pyrios (R1)

The GT version of the 2018 Series 2 model.

## Overview

The **Astra Pyrios** is a 2+2 grand tourer car developed by Astra and built in its Austin, Texas factory. The Pyrios is meant to replace the T1 as Astra's flagship model, with the first generation even sharing the same chassis as the T1. The first-generation Pyrios is available in two versions, the standard GT version, designed for straight-line performance and comfort, while the XT version is designed for greater cornering performance, being almost 200kg lighter than the GT version.

## History

After the release of the original T1 in 2014, Astra greenlit the development of a premium grand tourer designed mainly for European markets (although also available in North America) using the same chassis platform as the T1. Originally meant to carry a large 6L V12 engine, the engine bay in the T1 chassis was too small to fit such an engine. After numerous engine revisions, including a 4.5L twin-turbo V8 to a 5.7L V8, the engineering teams settled on the final 5.0L V8 design, which provided enough power (at 450hp).

The car's exterior also went through plenty of revisions, especially at the front. The first design used a large single light strip at the back, which was then replaced by two circular lights. The basic design for the front was decided early, however that area had it's own raft of changes too, mainly relating to the size, shape and position of the main grille.

Once the final design was settled, production began in the fall of 2017, with pre-order units being prioritized in the production line. The Pyrios was then fully released in North America and Europe in January of 2018.

In June 2021, an electric variant of the Pyrios was announced, set for a full unveil in 2022, with deliveries set to begin by the end of that same year. As of 12 June, ~100 electric Pyrios cars have been preordered.

## First generation (R1, 2017)

The Pyrios R1 was built as a replacement for the Astra T1 and became the manufacturer's new flagship model. It is characterized by its large front grille and uncomplicated aerodynamic design, as most of the downforce generated was from the underbody. Two versions were made: the GT and XT. Both had the same 5.0L naturally-aspirated V8, however the XT version removed the two rear seats and was optimized for use on a track.

## Powertrain

### Engine

3.0L twin-turbo V6, 5.4L N/A V8, 4.0L twin-turbo V12 front-engine

### Transmission

7-speed astraDCT, AWD

A leaked investor presentation showed that Astra is planning to launch the second generation Pyrios in 2022, with a completely redesigned exterior based on a new platform dubbed T2. The presentation revealed that a new 3.0L twin-turbo V6 was going to become standard, with an upgraded 5.2L V8 reserved for the XT variant. New trim levels are going to be introduced, starting with the standard S model, with the GT, GTS, XT, and R variants following it. Convertible versions of the Pyrios are also slated for introduction. The "Pyrios-E" electric variant will be part of this generation.

The presentation also indicated that Astra means to brand the Pyrios in a way so consumers immediately associate it with the brand. A quote on the final page read "When you think about Porsche, you think of the 911. When you think of Ford, you think of the Mustang. Now, when you think of Astra, you'll think about Pyrios."

On July 9, 2022, Astra released the first promotional photos of the car, while the full lineup was unveiled on August 10.

### Variants

##### S (base model)

The S model is equipped with a 440hp 3.0L twin-turbo V6, a "sports-oriented" interior, and a standard suspension and track setup.

###### GT

The GT model is also equipped with the 3.0L V6, however it is focused on greater comfort and luxury. Due to this, it is significantly heavier than the S model.

###### XT

The XT badge model comes equipped with a new 5.4L V8 engine that produces 500hp. The XT has the same interior as the base model, and a more track focused suspension setup.

###### R V12

The second generation Pyrios is the first rendition of the R model, a limited production (to 1,992 units) trim fitted with a new 4.0L twin-turbo V12 engine. The engine produces 600hp. The R is the lightest of the 4 models, as it is fitted with a more stripped-down interior without the rear seats. Other modifications include more aggressive front style and a small wing at the rear.