Motoring News

It has been announced that the next generation five-door Vauxhall Astra hatch will be unveiled at next year’s Frankfurt motor show.

Miserly fuel consumption is one of the makers’ promises that will come with the new car, but no expense has been spared with some of the technical innovations that are likely to make it a sought-after vehicle in the compact class.

One of these is the front camera technology, used in the upcoming Insignia, which combines traffic sign recognition with a lane departure system, improving occupant safety and saving drivers money on fines.

Adaptive front lighting is another selling point that it shares with the Insignia. The system adapts to different road and driving conditions by providing nine unique light beams, enhancing visibility and safety while driving at night.

The four generations of the Astra have sold over 2.5 million cars in the UK during the last 27 years.

Mark Adams, GM Europe’s vice president of design, boasted: "The present Astra already combines a high level of technical substance and emotional styling, but with the new car we are taking a big step forward in both respects, while emphasising its sporting credentials."

Written by Terry Hazel