Vauxhall Astra

Vauxhall's Astra Sport Hatch is a clear leader in the style stakes, even though the interior is carried over unchanged from the five-door. The 1.9-litre CDTI engine and good handling make it a credible warm hatch, but if you want something quicker, hang on for the VXR version or seek out Citroen's petrol-engined C4 VTS, which is out now.

There can be no doubt that Vauxhall's Astra Sport Hatch has it all to do if it is to please the critics. Set to replace the original three-door Astra and much-loved Bertone-styled Coup�, it aims to strengthen the company's reputation for producing exciting, yet affordable, models.

Which is exactly why the Luton firm is taking an unusual approach with the newcomer, driven here in the UK for the first time. Unlike rivals from Ford and VW, the three-door version of its family hatchback gets major styling changes to give it a sleeker look.

Called Sport Hatch, the newcomer - a version of which will compete in this year's BTCC - only shares the bonnet and front wings with the five-door. The result is impressive, with the rising waistline and bold tail-lights making it one of the most attractive hatchbacks available. There are smart alloys and deep bumpers, too, and while it is clearly related to the five-door, it maintains a look of its own.

Inside, the cabin appears plain after the dramatic exterior styling. Identical to the interior of the regular hatchback, the option of metal-effect trim helps to brighten things, but buyers may be disappointed by the lack of flair.

The layout is initially a letdown, too. Even on its lowest setting, the steering wheel remains quite high set, which we found uncomfortable. However, Vauxhall promises no loss of practicality. Reduced headroom and thick C-pillars make the rear less airy, yet legroom is adequate.

Luggage space is on a par with the five-door, too. The biggest compromise is in rear visibility, thanks to a smaller screen which hampers reversing.

Choose the 148bhp 1.9-litre CDTI engine and the Sport Hatch certainly lives up to its name. Propelling the car from 0-60mph in 8.3 seconds, the diesel unit provides superb performance. With 320Nm of torque available, the powerplant offers rapid acceleration and easy overtaking. What's more, driven with restraint, the Astra can deliver a remarkable 48.7mpg. Noise levels are reasonable, too, although at idle vibrations are felt through the clutch pedal.

Get on to a twisty B-road and the Vauxhall continues to impress. The sports suspension transmits road bumps to the cabin, but the ride is rarely uncomfortable. Less body roll makes the Astra more fun at speed, but while the steering is accurate, it lacks rivals' feedback.

The optional IDS Plus system, meanwhile, has the ability to speed up the steering and throttle action. It also allows greater freedom before the ESP kicks in, rounding off a convincing package.