There’s a new Vauxhall Astra waiting in the wings with a funky new exterior suit - and for the first time ever, the long-running hatchback will be electrified.
The Astra boasts some serious history, having first been launched 41 years ago. It’s been slugging it out with the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus pretty much ever since.
Despite being a car for the people, there’s always been an interesting model, too, particularly recent versions with ‘VXR’ or ‘GTC’ badges.
Now Vauxhall is teasing the next-gen Astra, due for release in 2022.
And one of the headline-grabbing stats - as well as the funky new look with that razor-like front grille - is that the Astra will be available as a plug-in hybrid for the first time.
While the British firm is keeping its cards close to its chest for now, the electrified powertrain is thought to combine a 1.6-litre turbocharged four-cylinder petrol engine with a 108 bhp electric motor to produce close to 180 bhp - which is not too shabby at all.
A range of around 31 miles using electricity only is also expected.
A host of other, more traditional, engines will be available. And the new Astra will come as both a five-door hatchback and versatile Sports Tourer estate, a move which Vauxhall says continues its 'ongoing product offensive' and 'adding considerable impetus to the electrification of the brand’s entire product portfolio.’
Style-wise, the Astra gets the now-patented Vauxhall ‘Vizor’ front end first seen on the all new Mokka SUV .
A Vauxhall spokesperson says:
“The face of the brand stretches across the front, seamlessly integrating technologies such as the ultra-slim IntelliLux LED headlamps that will once again bring cutting-edge innovation to the compact market segment. At the rear, the Astra nameplate is centrally placed on the sheer, taut surface of the tailgate.”
The same approach applies to the interior.
The Astra will get a ‘Pure Panel’ digital cockpit with two widescreen displays delivering ‘detoxed information in a horizontal driver-oriented format’.
Physical controls are reduced to the core functions in the form of ‘finely crafted keys’, says Vauxhall.
There’s also a newly-designed steering wheel and ergonomic front seats.
Paul Willcox, Managing Director, Vauxhall, said:
“The All-New Astra will open an exciting new chapter in the 41-year history of our popular compact model. We are confident that the next generation Vauxhall Astra will make a powerful impression and attract new customers to the brand, especially now Astra will be electrified for the first time.”
Detailed information on Vauxhall’s new Astra will follow in the coming months.
Which is all well and good - but what if you want an Astra right now..?
If that’s the case, worry not, because there’s an Astra to suit all tastes.
The fully-loaded ‘Griffin Edition’ model boasts a 7-inch colour touchscreen with sat-nav, 18 inch alloys, LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, heated front seats and automatic headlights.
And if you opt for a petrol-driven Astra, you’ll enjoy a gutsy 1.2 litre mill with a healthy 145 PS of power and which will return upwards of 50 mpg.
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