Warming up the engine
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The Vauxhall Astra has one of the longest-running nameplates on the UK market - the original model debuted all the way back in 1980. The eighth generation of the model arrived in 2021, based on a platform shared with cars like the Peugeot 308, and it’s the most advanced Astra yet - and also one of the smartest-looking cars in its class.
That’s backed up by a quality interior, efficient powertrains, and a well-rounded driving experience, while the option of plug-in hybrid and fully electric models means the Astra is bang up to date in what it offers to buyers. If you’re looking for a practical family hatchback, it’s well worth your attention - read on to find out more about the Astra below.
The last few generations of Vauxhall Astra have been quite handsome cars, but the latest model is even more likely to grab your attention. Its sharp lines, distinctive ‘Vizor’ front end, and a sporty appearance even in more basic models are certainly appealing, and when you open the door you’re greeted with a similarly smart, well-constructed, and premium-feeling interior - so the first impressions are good.
The Astra doesn’t drop the ball after this point either, which is why it’s worth considering as your next family car. It gets the basic stuff right, such as a well-sized boot (albeit smaller in the electric model), a good driving position, a logical layout (there are screens, but they don’t dominate the cabin), enough rear seat space for a pair of adults, and a generally sophisticated feel.
That sophistication continues on the road. Some other cars in the class are more entertaining to drive, but the Astra is refined whichever engine you choose, driving like a bigger car without feeling large and unwieldy from behind the wheel. The choice of petrol, diesel, plug-in hybrid and fully electric powertrains means there’s plenty of choice too, and that electric model offers a decent 258-mile range.
The Astra as ever has plenty of competition: think cars like the Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf, SEAT Leon, Peugeot 308, Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and more. No single car stands head and shoulders above the others in this class so you’re more likely to be drawn to their individual styling or features - and in this respect, the Astra still has plenty going for it.
It’s no hardship saving yourself a few quid by opting for Design trim with the Astra, as even this entry-level model is well-equipped. On the used market though you’re likely to find most of the original buyers went for the sportier GS Line, which does look sharper and gets some extra kit, including a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control, and heated front seats. Steer clear of the diesel unless you cover a lot of miles - we think the 130PS petrol is the pick for most buyers, and costs much less up front than the Hybrid-e or the Astra Electric.
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The Vauxhall Astra’s exterior dimensions are:
The Vauxhall Astra’s boot space is:
All regular petrol and diesel Astras cost less than £40,000 to buy brand new, which means a flat rate of £190 per year in tax. Plug-in hybrids are £10 cheaper, unless they cross that £40k threshold, which takes the rate to a less palatable £590 per year, for the first five years after the initial CO2-based rate has been paid by the original buyer. Electric models are currently free, though this is set to change in future.
The 110PS 1.2-litre turbocharged model in Design trim starts off in insurance group 16, rising to group 17 for the 130PS model, and group 18 if you step up to GS Line trim with the 130PS engine. Plug-in models start in group 26, and the electric version also from group 26.
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