Latest Astra A Real Glass Act

From a great view of a new Vauxhall to a new Vauxhall with a great view! The firm has revealed the three-door version of its Astra will be available with an optional fighter jet-style windscreen - called Panoramic - when it goes on sale here next summer.

Auto Express Car Reviews

08th September 2004

The glass, which extends seamlessly from the bonnet up into the roof as far as the B-pillar, will be unveiled at this month's Paris Motor Show, where the three-door Astra - to be badged Sport Hatch - will get its premiere. A Vauxhall spokesman said: "The new windshield gives the front occupants an unlimited field of vision just like in an aeroplane's cockpit. This makes driving through mountains or a brightly lit city a really special experience."

The glass is specially strengthened to ensure maximum safety in the event of a rollover, and features a protection system to prevent occupants being dazzled or frazzled by the sun. Mean- while, from October a five-door Astra will be available with a standard DAB digital radio. Called the SXi Digital, it will cost ΂£14,345.

Other changes to Vauxhall's 2005 model range include new Twinport petrol engines for the Agila and Corsa (1.2 and 1.4-litre powerplants) and the Meriva (1.4). There's also the option of a six-speed automatic transmission for the Vectra.