Vauxhall reveals new Astra

Vauxhall has revealed the new Astra which will go on sale this November priced from around £13,000 - similar to the current entry-level Astra. 

The seventh generation model is based on a new platform and is actually shorter and lighter than the model it will replace. A five-door hatchback will be launched first followed by a three-door GTC and a longer wheelbase Sports Tourer estate.

Despite being smaller on the outside, the Astra has more rear legroom thanks to redesigned seats. Vauxhall is promising a high-quality interior with a much cleaner and less button-heavy look dominated by a large central touchscreen.

The weight reduction is as much as 200kg on some models - the same as two rugby players - helped by a lighter body shell. This will be good news for fuel economy and emissions with the 1.6 CDTi 'whisper diesel' expected to emit less than 90g/km of CO2.

The 1.6 CDTi will be the most popular engine choise and comes in different versions of either 110PS, 136PS or 160PS. Alongside this will be a new 1.4-litre Turbo petrol with 145PS, shared with the latest Corsa and Adam. The entry-level model will be powered by a 1.0 Ecotec Turbo engine with 105PS.

There are no specific details on pricing and specification yet but we do know that the new Astra will come with the same instrument display as the facelifted Corsa along with a new IntelliLink system that works with both Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.