Vauxhall has revealed an updated version of its Astra lower-medium car.
Compared with the outgoing model, Vauxhall claims that CO2 emissions and fuel consumption are reduced by up to 19%, thanks to a new range of engines and improved aerodynamics.
Four petrol engines are available – 1.2-litre units with 110hp, 130hp and 145hp, and a 1.4-litre with 145hp – along with two 1.5-litre diesels with 105hp and 122hp.
The 1.2-litre petrols and the 105hp diesel come with a six-speed manual gearbox; the 145hp petrol comes with a seven-speed CVT automatic; and the 122hp diesel comes with the six-speed manual or a nine-speed automatic.
Preliminary WLTP fuel economy and NEDC-equivalent CO2 emissions figures are: 51.4mpg-54.3mpg and 105g/km-101g/km for the 1.2-litre petrols; 47.9mpg-49.6mpg and 110g/km for the 1.4-litre petrol; 60.1mpg-64.2mpg and 96g/km for the manual diesels; and 53.3mpg-57.6mpg and 115g/km-110g/km for the auto diesel.
Among the aerodynamically-minded changes are: an engine compartment cover; deflector-shaped rear axle control arms and a full-face shutter; upper and lower portions of the radiator grille that automatically open and close independently of each other; and an optimised underbody.
New shock absorbers have also been fitted with the aim of improving ride comfort.
Apple Carplay and Android Auto connectivity are standard across the range, and a new digital speedometer is included.
Upgraded digital front and rear cameras are available, as is a heated windscreen and wireless phone charging on selected models.
Prices and an on-sale date are yet to be confirmed.
