Stylish family hatchback with engine options for all

author: FutureCar Staff    

The Vauxhall Astra is undergoing a transformation, following the introduction of the Griffin style approach with the second-generation Mokka small SUV in 2020. This design introduced the 'Vizor' design as the face of all future Vauxhall models. The Crossland and Grandland SUVs have also received a refresh, and now it's the Astra's turn to benefit from a thorough reworking.

In recent years, the Vauxhall Astra has struggled with an image problem due to its bland styling, dull engines, and lack of excitement. However, since being acquired by the PSA Group in 2017 and becoming part of the larger Stellantis family, Vauxhall has been revitalized and given a new lease of life.

While there are a few minor issues such as interior quality and rear seat space, the Vauxhall Astra is a strong contender in the family hatchback class. It offers good practicality, strong infotainment, and a decent drive.

The eighth-generation Vauxhall Astra has been transformed into a smart-looking family hatchback that offers practicality, strong infotainment, and a decent drive. It features efficient petrol engines that provide excellent fuel economy. In addition, the plug-in hybrid and all-electric models offer a breadth of ability that might appeal to business users.

The previous Astra lacked the perceived quality of the Volkswagen Golf and the driving dynamics of the Ford Focus. Rivals such as the Mazda 3 and Honda Civic also made the Astra look lackluster in comparison. However, the eighth-generation Astra features a smart, modern appearance, impressive on-board technology, and important electrified powertrains to boost its green credentials.

Despite the growing popularity of family SUVs, there are still plenty of other five-door hatchbacks on the market that challenge the Astra. Options such as the SEAT Leon, Skoda Octavia, and Volkswagen Golf from the VW Group are reliable and practical choices. The Hyundai i30 and Kia Ceed, both from Korea, are also worth considering. Additionally, the Peugeot 308 and DS 4, which use the same EMP2 platform as the Astra, provide alternatives. For those who need more space, the Astra is available in Sports Tourer estate form.

Buyers of the Vauxhall Astra have the choice between petrol, plug-in hybrid, or electric power. The base 1.2-litre petrol engine comes in two versions, producing either 109bhp or 128bhp. It comes with a standard six-speed manual gearbox, with an optional eight-speed automatic transmission available for the more powerful version.

The 1.6-litre petrol plug-in hybrid powertrain is available in the regular Astra and the performance-oriented Astra GSe. This powertrain allows the Astra to cover up to 43 miles on electric power alone, making it an attractive choice for company car users.

For those looking to lower their Benefit-in-Kind (BIK) costs, the all-electric Astra Electric is an even better choice. It features a 154bhp electric motor with decent performance and a 54kWh battery pack that provides up to 258 miles of electric range.

In terms of trim levels, the latest Astra offers just three options: Design (entry), GS (sporty), and Ultimate (luxury). The petrol Astra range starts from around £27,000, which is competitively priced compared to similar rivals. The plug-in hybrid models are priced higher, starting at over £37,000. The preferred GS-spec Astra Electric is priced at over £40,000.

For an alternative review of the Vauxhall Astra, you can visit our sister site carbuyer.co.uk...

FutureCar Staff