Vauxhall Astra Estate

Vauxhall has produced yet another capable variant of the Astra in the estate, which offers more rear legroom than hatchback variants as well as useful carrying capacity. It might not have the biggest boot in the sector, but it is helped by some of the innovative features that makes the larger Vectra estate such a great car. The Vectra's FlexOrganiser, which can keep various items in the boot separate, is available in the Astra and it offers a wide range of petrol and diesel engines that will suit most driver's needs. Interior quality is among the best in its class, and it is better to drive than all but the Ford Focus estate. Perhaps a better choice than the Ford, though, because of its greater cargo capacity.

WT, SRI, 16V, SXI, CDTI

All models include driver's, front passenger's and side-impact airbags, ABS, electronic brakeforce distribution, cornering brake control, emergency brake assist, driver's seatbelt reminder light, height-adjustable front and rear head restraints, seatbelt pretensioner system, anti-submarining ramps, ISOFIX child seat restraint system, energy-absorbing steering column, pedal release system, front brake pad wear warning, laminated windscreen, side-impact protection beams, integral protective side door padding, 60/40 split-folding rear seats and child-proof locks on rear doors as standard. Full-size curtain airbags, body-colour door handles and side-protection mouldings, and black sports instruments with chrome edging are standard on Club, Design, Elite, SXi and SRi models. Cruise control is standard on Elite only, but optional on all models except Express.

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