Vauxhall Astra
As any family will tell you, practicality is king when it comes to choosing a new car. That's part of the reason why so many people have turned to the compact MPV market in search of extra space and comfort. But are they missing out on an obvious solution in the shape of the latest modern estates?
The Astra load-lugger has more to offer than simply space. The designers have done a fine job with the bodywork, and there's a wide range of engines and trims to suit all tastes. However, if you want a clever rear seat arrangement, you will have to pay extra, and the price of flagship variants soon mounts up. So, don't get carried away on the options list!
As any family will tell you, practicality is king when it comes to choosing a new car. That's part of the reason why so many people have turned to the compact MPV market in search of extra space and comfort. But are they missing out on an obvious solution in the shape of the latest modern estates?
Having already been impressed by the five-door hatchback variant, we got hold of the largest model in the Astra line-up to see if it's got what it takes to rival the new generation of compact people carriers, as well as the new breed of load-luggers.
With the Astra's handsome shape as a starting point, the designers have done a fine job with the estate. In fact, Vauxhall is so pleased with its new model that it has given it the racy SRi badge for the first time. While more discreet variants are available, the sporty flagship emphasises the attractive rear lines - although the optional 18-inch alloy wheels spoil the car's ride.
However, it's inside that this Vauxhall holds the most showroom appeal. Open the rear tailgate and you will find an easily accessible, flat floor. There's nothing clever about the way the rear bench stows away, but customers who demand more flexibility can choose a three-seat layout for £150, or a sliding set-up for a ridiculously priced £1,500.
Space
Keep your money in your wallet and stick with the conventional 60/40 split, and the Astra provides 470 litres of space with the rear seats up and 1,550 litres with the bench folded - almost identical to the new Focus's 475 and 1,525-litre ratings. The increase in load space has been achieved by adding 89mm to the wheelbase, which also gives rear passengers more legroom.
Even more good news is that despite the changes to the chassis, the estate feels virtually identical to the hatchback on the road, retaining the five-door's refinement and sharp handling. That's especially true of this turbocharged 2.0-litre SRi variant.
With 168bhp on tap, the car is surprisingly sporty, sprinting from rest to 60mph in 8.3 seconds and on to a top speed of 135mph. Combined fuel economy of 31mpg and CO2 emissions of 218g/km are less impressive, but more frugal petrol and diesel powerplants are also available.
Go for this top-spec SRi model, and you will be facing an £18,245 bill - that's £1,050 more than the hatchback version. It's true that few load-lugging rivals can match this Astra's pace, but more mundane variants are likely to hold greater appeal. Choose a lower trim level, and Vauxhall's new carrier offers a viable family alternative to a compact MPV. It looks as if Ford's new Focus estate has a tough act to follow...
