The Vauxhall Astra 5 door hatch and estate have received a mild front- and rear-end facelift along with a more powerful diesel engine and a variety of new technology-related options.  Both body styles get a new front grille, new front indicator lamps and a new design of fog lamp (where fitted). The rear of both models has also been refreshed, with new rear-panel styling complemented by a chrome lower moulding.The most important addition to the range is the Astra GTC 2.0 CDTi BiTurbo, which will become the most powerful non-VXR model in the range, producing 195PS and 400Nm of torque. 0-60mph arrives in 7.8 seconds and the top speed is 139mph, but fuel consumption is nevertheless 53.3mpg and CO2 emissions are 139g/km. All BiTurbos are fitted with Start/Stop system as standard.

For the first time in this class, the GTC uses a sequential turbocharging system, with the smaller turbo accelerating quickly at lower speeds to eliminate ‘lag’, providing 350Nm of torque from just 1500rpm. In the mid-range, both turbochargers work together providing maximum torque of 400Nm between 1750-2500rpm.

The Astra GTC BiTurbo enters the range at £23,925 – a premium of £995 over the GTC 2.0 CDTi 165PS model – but also features additional equipment: bespoke 18-inch alloy wheels, Electronic Climate Control, 6mm lower ride-height, a new body-kit and a flat-bottomed leather steering wheel.

New technology-related options across the range include the Driver Assistance Pack, which for £750 includes Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Following Distance Indicator.

New-look Astra pricing remains unchanged from the previous model.