Vauxhall Astra

Auto Express can exclusively show the newcomer without any disguise, as test drivers from General Motors put it through its paces during a towing trial on the Continent. They were hoping the subtle design changes would go unnoticed... but our eagle-eyed spies still clocked the revised car.

The most significant visual alteration at the front comes with a new bumper. Retaining the basic shape of the outgoing model's, the line of the grille still flows down around the number plate to a low air dam. However, chrome trim on the horizontal bars in this area now means the nose has a classier look.

Below the headlights, reshaped black plastic panels are designed to give a far more dynamic appearance. These will house foglights in high-spec models.

At the rear, the changes are equally subtle, with a brand new bumper and clear lenses for all variants. The design tweaks will appear on all Astra variants, including the Twin-Top coupé-cabriolet.

Inside, the aim is to give a more lively finish. This is likely to see the use of translucent switches and backlit dials, just like in the Corsa. Lighter fabrics with more modern designs will also be added.

So why do the drivers pictured here need to test the towing ability of a cosmetically upgraded car? Well, there is more to this facelift than refreshed styling. Under the bonnet, the engine line-up will get a major boost, with the intro-duction of the firm's latest motors.

Diesel power comes from the newly developed 1.7-litre CDTI unit borrowed from the Corsa. This offers 123bhp, and promises fuel-sipping economy.

The petrol range will see the introduction of the 1.6 turbocharged engine from the Meriva VXR. While this power­plant can deliver as much as 200bhp, it will be tuned to offer around 170bhp in the Astra in order to provide a 'warm' alternative to the hot hatch VXR.

The revised model is set to go on sale in the UK in March, and gives the Astra range a boost ahead of the launch of an all-new car in 2009. Expect to see the next-generation family hatch at a major motor show in 2008.