YOU only have to look at the number you see on the road to realise that British motorists are immensely fond of the Vauxhall Astra.
In fact, in excess of three million have been sold across the UK in the 40 years since this family hatchback first appeared.
But far from resting on its laurels, the Griffin marque has just launched the latest version featuring all-new, more efficient engines, an improved chassis and better on-board technology. This should ensure that the Astra’s popularity both with families and fleet managers will continue undiminished.
I’ve tested the hatchback with what is likely to be one of the best-selling powertrains – the 145PS 1.2-litre turbo petrol engine mated to a six-speed manual gearbox.
The model I had was a high-end Elite Nav variant, costing £23,955, and, as promised, it featured an impressive amount of tech and creature comforts.
Any fears that a 1.2-litre engine might be a bit puny were quickly dispelled, as it proved very willing and made the Astra lively to drive. New dampers and calibration for the steering also made it feel agile and assured around corners – even at higher speed.
I soon found myself smiling as I bowled along country roads, enjoying both the view across the Clyde and the performance of the car. With a 0-60mph time of 8.8 seconds and 137mph top speed, the Astra also proved to be a highly competent motorway cruiser and adept at nipping about in city traffic.
But the hatchback’s class-leading aerodynamics help this version officially average 51.4 to 54.3mpg, which means CO2 levels are just 99g/km.
Aside from the drive, there’s a noticeable improvement to the cabin, which feels solidly put together, with a higher-quality finish than before and greater use of soft-touch, upmarket materials.
In the Elite Nav’s case, this included wonderfully comfortable leather seats – heated front and back – and a heated leather-clad steering wheel, along with stylish splashes of piano black and chrome finishing.
There is good head, shoulder and legroom for four adults to travel in style, while the sensibly shaped 370-litre boot should take a family’s luggage. Drop the 60/40 split/folding rear seats and you’ve got 1210 litres to play with.
The test car also came with the top-end Multimedia Navi Pro system with an eight-inch colour touchscreen that can be split to show navigation, music and phone information simultaneously.
The sat nav features good graphics and benefits from real-time traffic information and the availability of online map updates. The infotainment set-up also includes DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, USB connectivity and voice control.
There are also two rear USB charging points so the kids can be kept happy on longer journeys with their electronic gadgets.
Other goodies of note include the smart and clear eight-inch digital instrument display with a multi-function trip computer, dual-zone climate control, cruise control with speed limiter and auto lights and wipers.
Safety kit is top-notch, too, with a plethora of airbags, as well as electronic braking and stability programmes. On top of this, the Elite Nav is equipped with an intelligent front camera system.
This includes forward collision alert with automatic city emergency braking, a safe following distance indicator and lane departure warning/lane keep assist.
The whole package is nicely wrapped up in a sleek-looking exterior with hawkish LED headlights, dynamic creases, a sporty rising beltline and elegant 17in multispoke alloys.
Factfile:
- Model: Vauxhall Astra Elite Nav 1.2 Turbo (145PS)
- Engine: 1.2-litre petrol
- Power: 145PS
- Top speed: 137mph
- 0-60mph: 8.8 seconds
- Average mpg: 51.4-54.3
- CO2 emissions: 99g/km
- Warranty: Three years/60,000 miles
- Price: £23,955
