Vauxhall Astra

Vauxhall might be a brand in turmoil, but with cars like the new Astra it’s got more than a fighting chance. We’ve already seen and driven the five-door version of the hatchback, but Frankfurt will see the introduction of a sportier three-door variant, too.

The Insignia-inspired styling, features the flowing lines and ‘blade’ and ‘wing’ motifs that are now familiar. And thanks to over 600 hours spent in the wind tunnel the new Astra is one of the most slippery shapes on the road.

If the five door is on your shopping list, you’ll have to wait until December. But if it’s the spacious estate version of the sporty three-door that tickles your fancy, you’ll have to wait until mid-2010 and 2011 respectively before they arrive on UK shores.