Vauxhall Astra

The most significant development, in fact, is the compass! Gradually, Vauxhall had already been showcasing a cross on the front end in its concept cars, which points the way like a compass. As new European Union regulations now permit this, the Astra now features lighting across the full width of the front end. The logo is illuminated, with lines above and below it that evoke the image of a compass.

New alloy wheels are designed to enhance the Astra’s aerodynamics and appearance. Chrome accents have been replaced by black, as this looks more modern and is less harmful to the environment (chrome, along with leather, is one of the most polluting components during car production).

The new headlights are not only a defining feature but also enhance safety. The Vauxhall Grandland was already fitted with smart headlights comprising 25,000 elements per headlight. These can illuminate the road ahead with great precision, without causing any disturbance to other road users. According to Vauxhall’s engineers, it was quite a challenge, but these advanced headlights are now fitted to the much smaller Astra. Experience shows that this makes a significant contribution to safety when driving in the dark.

Interior

When revamping the Astra, customer feedback was the main focus, whilst less attention was paid to competitors. One of the complaints from Astra drivers was that fingerprints were left on the piano-black panels in the interior. These are therefore now finished in matt black. The display on the screens has also been adapted, making the controls more logical and therefore simpler.

Vauxhall has long distinguished itself with seats developed in collaboration with the German Institute for Healthy Backs. The manufacturer is now taking this a step further with the "Intelliseat". This term is somewhat of an exaggeration, as it simply refers to a groove in the centre of the seat, designed to reduce pressure on the occupant’s tailbone and spine. During the test drive, these seats were found to be comfortable, but not groundbreaking. The seats are now made entirely from recycled materials and yet still feel soft and comfortable. In the “Edition” version, the entire interior is finished in lighter shades for a friendlier look.

Electric Astra

The electric Astra now has a slightly greater range. By winding the layers in the cells slightly closer together, more energy can be stored without making the casing larger or altering the chemistry. In addition, the Astra uses a new, more efficient motor from the parent company, which also contributes to a greater range. From now on, the battery can be preheated whilst en route to the fast charger, enabling it to charge more quickly once there.

The modifications do not affect the driving experience. In practice, the Astra is still an electric car by the book: quiet, nimble and smooth. In eco mode, the drive is noticeably less spirited, whilst in sport mode the car is extra responsive. During the test drive, in favourable weather conditions and with a relaxed driving style, energy consumption came in at 14.1 kWh / 100. This is average for a modern car of this size and provides an effective range of 330 km. The latter is somewhat limited for a car in this segment. Although energy recovery is now possible in three stages, one-pedal driving is still not available in the Astra. Vauxhall maintains that this is awkward for drivers who are not used to electric driving. Autozine maintains that this is a software feature that can easily be switched on and off. Therefore, it is up to the customer to decide, not the manufacturer.

Plug-in hybrid

The plug-in hybrid (“PHEV”) has also been updated for the 2026 model year. It too will feature a battery with a higher capacity, enabling the hybrid Astra to travel 83 km on electric power alone. The 1.6-litre engine has less internal friction than before and is entirely tailored to work in conjunction with an electric motor. The new power unit utilises a so-called Miller cycle, which makes the engine much more fuel-efficient but also much less smooth-running. The electric motor compensates for this. To make the petrol engine even more fuel-efficient, Vauxhall has opted for higher injection pressure, a variable oil pump and more precise timing.

We don’t often say this, but: the plug-in hybrid drives more pleasantly than the all-electric Astra. In electric mode, the Astra plug-in hybrid is more responsive than the all-electric version. The PHEV accelerates more easily and feels noticeably lighter. The Astra’s petrol and hybrid engines work together harmoniously, truly offering the best of both worlds (something that is by no means always the case with Stellantis hybrids). When the battery is empty, the electric motor can only provide assistance for a short time. Nevertheless, this is sufficient to achieve an average fuel consumption of 4.7 litres per 100 km, making the Astra PHEV economical even without recharging.

Diesel

Like other manufacturers, Vauxhall is no longer investing in diesel engines. The existing diesel engine has therefore only been modified to comply with the latest European Union emissions standards. As Vauxhall had not previously made the Astra diesel available as a test car, we took it for a spin out of curiosity. The diesel engine is clearly audible both outside and inside the car, but it is smooth and responsive. Furthermore, it is noticeable that the diesel is the lightest of the three variants tested. Consequently, it offers the best road holding (less weight being forced in one direction) and the most dynamic character.

Conclusion

Vauxhall is following its own compass. With the revamped Astra, the focus is not on the competition or the latest technology, but on the customers’ wishes. Astra buyers are not looking for a specific technology, but for functionality. That is why the car has not only become more luxurious and modern, but above all more practical and sustainable. Thanks to improved battery technology, the plug-in hybrid and the all-electric Astra offer a greater range. In the plug-in hybrid, the petrol and electric motors work together more seamlessly than before, making this a more serious option for private buyers. The models with internal combustion engines change gear more quickly and smoothly thanks to a dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

The design has also been updated. The crease in the bonnet has long been a hallmark of Vauxhall. By now incorporating a light bar into the grille (and making other lines less prominent), a large cross is created with the Vauxhall logo in the centre. The overall look resembles a compass, which is typical of Vauxhall, as the brand is forging its own unique path with the revamped Astra. Because the Astra lacks a distinct character, this might seem a little dull, but it simply means that the car excels at everything.