New 2023 Vauxhall Astra deals

2023 Vauxhall Astra deals

Full length Vauxhall Astra GTC video review with market value analysis

Range videos
Vauxhall Astra GTC
Vauxhall Astra
Vauxhall Astra VXR
Vauxhall Astra

Whichever Astra GTC variant you choose - 1.4-litre or 1.6-litre Petrol Turbo, 1.7 or 2.0-litre CDTi diesel or even the 280bhp VXR - you should find it to be reasonably well equipped.

Entry-level Sport-trimmed models include most of what you'll want - air conditioning, a decent quality MP3-compatible CD stereo with Aux-in point and USB functionality, daytime running lights, seat height adjustment and a remote control alarm system.

They even include 18-inch alloy wheels, cruise control and a DAB digital radio. At this level though, some will feel that this car still doesn't feel quite special enough, an issue that's partly addressed by specifying your car in 'SRi' trim - like this one here.

The extra £1,300 or so this will require on top of the price of your chosen variant buys you the 'nice-to-have' touches - a leather-covered steering wheel, front door sill covers, dark-tinted rear windows, sports front seats and front foglamps - as well as a bit of extra high-tech (Auto lights and wipers, a multi-function trip computer and a hill start assist system to stop you from drifting backwards on uphill junctions).

You also get an electronic parking brake - though that, to be honest, I could do without. As for options, well I don't see too many GTC buyers going for the Auto gearbox that's an option on the top 1.4-litre Petrol Turbo and 2.0-litre CDTi diesel engines.

A key decision all GTC buyers will have to make though, will be whether to find an extra £800 for the FlexRide adaptive damping system that enables you to set the suspension up to suit the mood you're in and the road you're on.

Many will feel that the standard UK-developed damping set-up is good enough not to need it and may be more tempted to spend a similar amount on Vauxhall's clever Adaptive Forward Lighting system.

Here, a set of bi-xenon headlamps will adapt thenmselves across eight different settings tailored to different roads and light conditions. Other key options include the heated, leather ergonomic six-way adjustable sports seats I have here and a 315W 7-speaker Infinity Premium Sound System..