Astra eyes US sales success

While US cars struggle for popularity in Europe, models going in the opposite direction are clearly more successful. That's why the Vauxhall Astra will debut in the US badged as a Saturn

General Motors is preparing to introduce three and five-door versions of the hatch. And it will spark a US rivalry with the original Ford Focus, which is still on sale across the Atlantic.

The Astra is likely to get a hybrid engine in the future, and it could pave the way for other Vauxhalls to hit the US. "Saturn and Vauxhall are a natural fit," said GM boss Bob Lutz. "They share similar brand positioning in their own markets."