New Vauxhall Astra: on sale now

It's hard to overestimate the importance of the latest Vauxhall/Opel Astra, representing as it does about 30 per cent of the firm's total annual sales, with the five-door making up around 45 per cent of that.

The latest incarnation is the fifth-generation Astra, with elegant bodywork slightly bigger outside than that of the outgoing model, and much more space than before inside. Build quality is on a par with the smart looks on this hatchback.

Prices start at £15,675 and there are five trim levels; S, Exclusiv, SRi, SE and Elite. All models come with ESP, six airbags, air-conditioning, electric windows, CD/radio with MP3 format and electric/heated door mirrors.

Options include FlexRide, which offers a choice of three suspension settings which drivers can manually control or allow the car to select automatically, as well as Adaptive Forward Lighting that illuminates around bends and adapts in intensity to suit road conditions.

Vauxhall says the Astra's engine efficiency has improved by more than 13 per cent over the outgoing range.

Importantly for the UK, Vauxhall's Ellesmere Port plant will build new Astras for all European markets initially. The UK will take the biggest share, with 25 per cent of all production going to British buyers.

Underpinning the new Astra's rakish body is an all-new chassis with a longer wheelbase than the previous version, promising improved interior space and ride comfort.

"The only part of the Astra which isn't new is its name," says Vauxhall.

Price: from £15,675 to £24,205

Engines: 1.4 (86bhp), 1.4VVTG (97bhp), 1.6 (177bhp) petrol; 1.7 CDTi (108bhp), 1.7 CDTi (123bhp), 2.0 CDTi (158bhp) diesel.

further information - www.vauxhall.co.uk or visit www.astra-and-action.co.uk

Contact discount vauxhall at discountvauxhall@googlemail.com for the best discounted prices on the new Vauxhall Astra