All-new Astra debuts in Frankfurt
It's more than a year before the 2009 Frankfurt Show opens its doors, but Vauxhall has started hyping up the debut of its all-new Astra five-door, one of the company's most important and successful models to date.
Though the current car remains one of the better looking models in the C-segment, Vauxhall is acutely aware of its rivals' continued march forward and hopes to endow the new Astra with the high quality feel of its Insignia.
The teaser sketches released today by General Motors indicate that the new Astra is likely to retain the overall proportions of the current car, though the detailing will draw on the new Insignia for inspiration, with a version of that car's 'sculpted blade' design feature on the Astra's flanks.
Despite evolutionary looks, Vauxhall claims that the Astra's chassis is a new development and the car will feature several practical innovations to ensure it appeals to family buyers.
While top-end models will adopt the latest technology, such as Adaptive Forward Lighting and Front Camera System, Vauxhall is keen to point out that a new range of engines will also debut on the Astra, designed to deliver low-rev urge in conjunction with miserly fuel consumption.
With a year to go before the car's first public outing it's highly likely that more information will be released over the coming months.
All-new Astra debuts in Frankfurt pictures
