Frankfurt news: Vauxhall Astra
This is the new Vauxhall Astra, which takes the design theme started by the Insignia and filters it down into one of Britain's most popular cars. In fact, its maker is so pleased with the result that it's talking about the car as a genuine VW Golf rival.
What's all the fuss about?
A new Astra is a big deal, especially over here in the UK where it enjoys its largest chunk of sales - the Astra is a mainstay in the top five sellers list month on month. Particularly at the moment, with talk of job losses at Vauxhall's two UK plants rife, confirmation that the sixth-generation hatch is to be built at the Ellesmere Port plant is reassuring for UK industry.
Anything that stands out?
We've already seen pictures of the cabin and its exterior, but in the flesh the Astra exudes the same kind of quality and dynamism as the Insignia did when it was first launched, albeit in a slightly less surprising way. It's probably not going to bowl anyone over like Vauxhall thinks it will, but at least the maker has kept the prices in check. Partly, that is...
Prices kick off at £15,675 for a 1.4-litre petrol, which is £270 more than the outgoing equivalent. Fair enough, except that the range tops out at a staggering £23,695 for a 2.0-litre CDTi automatic. That's Audi A3 TDI S-Line, BMW 120d M Sport or Golf GTD money. We can't be sure yet, but we'd suggest the Germans will enjoy better residuals too.
It does feature some clever technology and convenience features though, including an adaptive chassis, real-time speed limit recognition and flexible flooring for the boot.
When can I buy one?
You can order one now, and if you do you should expect to get your car in December.
Frankfurt news: Vauxhall Astra pictures
