Vauxhall best-selling model, the Vauxhall Astra, is now available in the 8th generation. For the 1st time, the Vauxhall Astra will be available with electric powertrain. Additionally, the Astra will also available in 2 different tune for the plug-in hybrid, and also the petrol and diesel engine paired with either a six-speed manual and eight-speed automatic transmissions.
The new Vauxhall Astra design is based on Vauxhall Vizor that is meant to show the next generation of Vauxhall. The new Vauxhall will be launch as a sporty five-door with a low-slung looking hatchback. The front overhang has now being shorten, while the wheelbase has been increased compare to its predecessor. This also translated to a practical boot space of 422 litres.
One of the highlight on the latest Astra is the introduction of the updated Vauxhall’s Intelli-Lux LED Pixel light. This new headlight will come with a total of 168 LED elements, which is split into 84 in each ultra-slim headlamp. While at the back, there are the vertically aligned high-mounted brake lamp and LED tail lamps completes the exterior of the Astra. On top of that, the Astra also available in a two-tone paintjob.
For the interior, the new Astra will get the next generation of the Pure Panel, which is a fully digital cockpit. The digital cockpit will feature two 10-inch displays, seamlessly integrated in a horizontal format. The updated Pure Panel will also include wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto via compatible smartphones.
The new Astra is based on the third generation of the highly flexible EMP2 multi-energy architecture, with Vauxhall DNA built in. The steering and lateral stiffness of the chassis are designed for high yaw control. This also contributed the increase of torsional rigidity by 14% compared to previous generation.
On the safety front, the new Astra will rely on systems such as the multifunction camera in the windscreen, four body cameras five radar sensors as well as ultrasonic sensors front and rear to make the car aware of the surroundings. These systems are incorporated into the Intelli-Drive system that has the ability to adapt the speed in curves, make speed recommendations and perform semi-automatic lane changes.
The long list of automated driver assistance systems also includes adaptive cruise control, large Intelli-HuD head-up display, long-range blind-spot detection, Intelli-Vision 360o camera, extended traffic sign recognition, rear cross-traffic alert and active lane positioning.
The new Astra will also feature the ergonomic AGR seats. Certified by “Aktion Gesunder Rücken e. V.” (“Campaign for Healthy Backs”) the position of the front seats is 12mm lower than in the previous model, further enhancing the feeling of a “sporty” drive. To enhance the comfort level, the AGR front seats will be wrapped in either Nappa leather or Alcantara option.
The new Astra will be available with powerful plug-in hybrid electric drive as well as highly efficient petrol and diesel engines, electrifying Vauxhall’s compact class model for the first time in the brand’s history. Power ranges from 81kW (110PS) to 96kW (130PS) with the petrol and diesel variants and up to 165kW (225PS) system output with the plug-in hybrid variants. A six-speed gearbox is standard on the petrol and diesel power units, with an eight-speed automatic transmission (electrified on the plug-in hybrids) optional on the more powerful engines.