New Vauxhall Astra (2010)

The new Vauxhall Astra - teased ahead of a launch at the Frankfurt Motor Show

You’d think Vauxhall would have better things to do with the current GM mess than torment buyers with teaser shots of the new Vauxhall Astra. But, just like every other car maker lately, they seem to think that this is the way to lead-in to a launch.

This time we’ve got a variation on a theme, with the New Astra being ‘Disguised’ by getting the car’s designers to drape themselves (and their paperwork) strategically over the car. How artistic!

So what do we know about the new Vauxhall Astra (aka Opel Astra)? Well, it will be based on the same platform as the Chevvy Volt/Vauxhall Ampera, and will be launched at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September. Initially it is expected to use pretty standard engines – a 1.4 litre turbo on the basic version and a 2.0 litre turbo on the Vauxhall Astra VXR (Opel OPC).Where they will go with it after that is not certain, but a Hybrid of some sort seems highly likely in the not too distant future

As for body styles are concerned, the whole gamut of possibilities will eventually be available. You will be able to have an Astra Hatchback or Estate, an Astra Saloon and even a hard-top coupe. So they’re covering every option.

The current Astra is a good car, and this holds decent promise. But what is going to happen to the Astra if Fiat’s planned takeover of Vauxhall goes ahead is anybody’s guess. Still, this close to launch, it’s unlikely to be dropped. I guess by the time the Frankfurt reveal happens we’ll have a clearer idea on the future of GM in Europe.