Looking closely, I can also see signs of a Sweepspear, which is a defining Buick styling characteristic missing from the current car. And one I feared would not survive due to GM's insistence on synergizing Buick with Opel.

Your Right in the last two photo's you can see the sweepspear. Very cool, but I wish they would bring some style like this loverly baby with the sweepspear!

I think these NG Astra/Verano will become like the Insignia/Regal instead of wearing different front/rear fascias.

Watching this one closely. Anyone hear if the Astra is getting AWD?

Interesting...

Watching this one closely. Anyone hear if the Astra is getting AWD?

Yes, D2XX is supposed to have AWD.

but is this on D2XX or a refresh of the current car?

Watching this one closely also.

but is this on D2XX or a refresh of the current car?

Astra (IIRC coupe/hatch) has been out for approx. 5-6 years. My guess is it will move on D2XX soon after Cruze, just like Delta II schedule.

Sedan my just be a refresh to soldier it on.

I really liked the Verano when I test drove it last year. The only problem was, being so tall, NO ONE could sit behind me. There physically wasn't enough room to get your feet out from under the front seat when I was driving. I thought the interior was awesome, but could use a tweak or two with the center stack. I'm sure that will be hammered out in the refresh since so many complained of the plethora of buttons in the LaX and Regal.

but is this on D2XX or a refresh of the current car?

D2XX; the refresh of the current car is the new headlights/taillights that was posted on Autoblog 2 or 3 days ago