New Astra Great New Family Car

Has your car had it? Are the ashtrays full and the back seat covered in rubbish from the kids? Is it time to upgrade and buy a new car? If the time is right for you then you should check out the new Vauxhall Astra released in 2009.

If you have a family then this could be the ideal vehicle for you. It has won one of the automotive industry’s most prestigious awards; the Golden Steering Wheel. The award is organised by Auto Bild the world’s largest automobile magazine. Readers in 26 European countries voted for the new Astra. The car received top marks for engine, energy consumption, chassis, braking, steering and safety relevant driver assistance categories.

According to the manufacturer, the vehicle is completely different to previous incarnations of the model.  It stated the only thing the car has in common with its predecessors is its name.

The marketing director of Vauxhall commented: "We're confident that its blend of dynamic design, new-to-class technology and immense driver appeal will attract an even broader spectrum of buyers in this sector."

Buyers have been advised they can expect strong exterior styling and plenty of space inside the cabin. In addition to this, the inclusion of adaptive damping has resulted in excellent comfort and handling, Vauxhall claimed.

Some of the new features include:

•    Adaptive forward lighting – the most advanced headlight system in its class.

•    FlexiRide Chassis –this is a chassis control system which provides three different driving modes. Normal is the default mode plus there is also Sport and Tour.

•    EcoFlex – this is a new engine system that can deliver great performance with lower emissions.

The model is the sixth version of the car produced in 30 years. The first Astra was launched by Vauxhall in 1979 when disco reigned in Britain’s clubs and we had our first female prime minister. Since then new models have come out every five or six years.

Motorists who are interested in purchasing the vehicle should first do some research online and then talk to their local Vauxhall dealer to see what deals are available.

If you would like to know more about cars why not ask AnswerBank Motoring.