Vauxhall Astra hatchback - Interior & comfort

There was nothing particularly wrong with the old Astra’s dashboard, perhaps besides a slightly askew infotainment screen. It certainly wasn’t exciting, but was fine to use. We think it’s good news that Vauxhall has replaced the entire dashboard; now the Astra has a stylish interior to take on its rivals. It even looks similar to more expensive premium hatchbacks like the Mercedes A-Class and BMW 1 Series.

Vauxhall Astra dashboard

Vauxhall’s ‘PurePanel’ displays made their debut in the Vauxhall Mokka, and are likely to be rolled out to other models in due course. The setup consists of two 10-inch screens, with the one behind the steering wheel housing a digital dial cluster. This shows all the relevant driving information, while the infotainment touchscreen next to it is used to control media and navigation functions. Below it are button keys to control the air conditioning; they’re not quite as pronounced as the ones in the Peugeot 308, but are easier to use than the touch-sensitive sliders found in the Volkswagen Golf.

The quality of the materials aren’t quite at the same level as what you’d find in an A-Class or 1 Series. It feels reasonably decent quality, perhaps average for the class. There are a few scratchy plastics and gloss black trim pieces throughout the cabin, and not too many soft-touch areas. GS Line versions get some rather cheap-feeling red accents. The Peugeot 308 feels more upmarket inside.

Equipment

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The Astra introduces Vauxhall’s new simplified trim level line-up, which consists of Design, GS Line and Ultimate models. Design effectively replaces SE, and features a good amount of standard equipment. The head, tail and foglights are all bright LEDs, with high-beam assist for the headlights. You also get cruise control, automatic wipers, 16-inch alloy wheels, keyless start and a leather-covered steering wheel. The touchscreen includes sat nav, DAB radio, Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

Stepping up to GS Line brings a black roof, black painted 17-inch alloys, a sportier body kit and extra equipment. With two-zone air conditioning, adaptive cruise control, heated sports seats and ambient lighting, it’s our pick of the range. On a monthly finance deal, it shouldn’t work out much more expensive than the base Design trim.

Ultimate keeps the sporty looks, but adds extra technology like a head-up display, wireless phone charging and adaptive LED pixel headlights. It also gets an air quality sensor and a heated soundproof windscreen.

Options

Metallic paint costs up to £700, while you can add bigger wheels with red inserts on GS Line models for £300. Provision for a spare wheel costs £20, but you’ll need to buy a spare wheel from your dealer.