Meet the high-tech new Astra - Buying and owning

With the car still the best part of a year away from sale, Vauxhall won’t discuss prices yet. However, we expect the new Astra to be a little more expensive than the outgoing model, suggesting a starting point of about £11,500, rising to around £17,500 for the 200bp version that’s due in 2005.

As now, though, we expect many cars to find their way onto company fleets, so buyers should ensure they secure a decent discount up-front to offset the likely heavy falls in residual values.

All of the initial engine range will meet Euro IV emissions regulations, meaning the diesel models will be exempt from the usual 3% company car tax surcharge.