Vauxhall Astra, 2010
Launched at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor Show, the all-new Vauxhall Astra is poised to raise the bar for compact cars sold in the UK, with a combination of stylish design, class-leading dynamics, ultra-efficient powertrains and upscale quality.
Upmarket design, quality materials and clever packaging define new Vauxhall Astra's cabin
Echoing the flowing forms of its bodywork, the new Vauxhall Astra's interior marks a major shift towards premium design and quality in the compact sector. It employs the recurring wing and blade motifs that were first introduced in the Insignia and are now used in a fresh and innovative way.
Ambient lighting enhances the feeling of quality in the cabin, with lighting points framing the gearshift surround, the area above the centre console and within the door handle recesses, depending on trim level.
Unparalleled in this sector is the Astra's raft of clever cabin storage solutions, some of which have even been patented. Rather than focusing on the compartment size alone, the Astra's cabin is full of bespoke storage areas designed specifically for the 20 most common items buyers have been found to carry in their car, from an MP3 player to a 1.5-litre drinks bottle.
Efficient, yet powerful, Vauxhall Astra's engines are low on CO2 but high on power
The new Vauxhall Astra will be available with a range of eight engines, ranging from 87PS to 180PS, all of which offer impressive efficiency and an overall cut in emissions of 13.3 per cent compared with the previous Astra range.
Diesel engines are expected to represent almost half of all Vauxhall Astra sales, and will range from a 1.7-litre producing 110PS to a 2.0-litre generating 160PS, but will never emit more than 129g/km when fitted with a manual transmission.
Crucially, there will be an important ecoFLEX model, equipped with a 95PS 1.3 CDTi available in Spring 2010. Fitted with this engine, the ecoFLEX will achieve 109g/km, while retaining driveability and refinement.
There will also be five petrol engines available, ranging from an 87PS 1.4-litre to a 180PS 1.6-litre Turbo. Included in this line up will be a new 1.4-litre turbocharged engine, producing 140PS, replacing the 1.8-litre motor used in the previous range. This new powertrain perfectly illustrates Vauxhall's engine downsizing philosophy which provides drivers with all the performance of a larger capacity engine, but with far fewer emissions.
Innovative Watt's link rear axle equals fine dynamics and superior packaging
The new Astra's front and rear tracks have been increased by 56mm and 70mm respectively, while its wheelbase has been increased by 71mm, the cumulative effect being improved handling and ride quality, as well as more space and comfort for occupants.
Continuing Vauxhall's trend for innovation, its engineers have combined the size, weight and efficiency benefits of a compound crank rear axle with a cleverly positioned Watt's link, which helps support lateral forces during cornering.
Complementing this system is a new version of Vauxhall's FlexRide adaptive damping system, which adjusts the suspension character automatically depending on the driver's needs, while also offering three programmable damper settings.
Finally, a core body structure, stiffer than that of the outgoing car, enhances the new Vauxhall Astra's ride and handling still further, while also reducing noise and vibration inside the cabin.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
The next generation Vauxhall Astra brings a new look to the compact class, with its strong coupe-like lines, elegant surfaces and its unique interpretation of Vauxhall's design language.
At 4.42 metres the new Vauxhall Astra grows by some 17 centimetres compared with its predecessor, positioning itself right between the Corsa (4.0 metres) and the Insignia (4.83 metres). The wheelbase increases by 71 millimetres, improving rear passenger space and adding comfort for all occupants.
A slim but low trapezoidal grille incorporating the latest Griffin logo dominates the front of the car, while the familiar blade sculpted into the side panels of the new Astra sweeps upward and visually connects with the side window-line, balancing the car's proportions.
Eagle eye-shaped headlamps, that encompass the prominent wing-shaped daytime running lights, blend with a graceful flowing silhouette that connects the new car's muscular shoulder lines with its distinctive rear hatch area.
The raked A-pillars flow into a diving bonnet-line, leading to narrow headlamp units, housing lights mounted on a dark inner surface, which add depth and a three-dimensional quality. The signature wing graphic on the daylight running lights sits inside sharp, eagle-eye headlamps.
The front indicator lights are now located separately in the front bumper recesses and are accented with chrome, while the neatly shaped repeater units are set into the upper front wings.
New body design sees reappearance of the 'Blade'
A crisply-executed soft shoulder line runs along the side of the body into the sculpted rear light units. Above these, the car's windows on most models are framed by a matt chrome surround, unique in the compact class.
Coupe styling with hatchback functionality
The new Vauxhall Astra's side view hints at a sleek, almost coupé-like look, which belies the Astra's generous passenger accommodation, suitable for five adults.
Viewed from behind, the shoulder line extends along the side of the body into the sculpted rear lights in one, continuous flow. Designers achieved the muscular rear proportions by creating strong rear body shoulders, combined with a wraparound C-panel and tapered rear window.
The tail light units are set apart to accentuate the width of the vehicle's stance, and viewed at night, their double wing graphic creates an instantly recognisable appearance. This is enhanced by an upper rear spoiler, which also serves to improve the car's aerodynamics.
