The Vauxhall Astra plug-in hybrid hatchback and estate models are receiving a substantial update, offering buyers more value and a better electric driving experience. The most significant changes involve a price reduction and a larger battery pack, resulting in a considerable boost to the car’s electric range.
Key Changes and Pricing
The entry-level Astra PHEV GS now starts at £36,145, a £3,005 decrease from its previous price. The estate version, the Astra Sports Tourer, begins at £37,365. The higher-spec Ultimate trim adds £2,000 to the hatchback’s price and £1,980 to the estate’s. Even the sporty GSE trim receives a discount: previously starting at £43,600 (hatchback) and £44,950 (estate), they now begin at £38,795 and £39,995, respectively. This pricing places all plug-in hybrid Astra variants below the UK’s £40,000 luxury car tax threshold.
Enhanced Electric Range
The biggest improvement lies in the car’s electric range, which has increased from 39 miles to 52 miles. This upgrade is thanks to a larger 17.2kWh battery replacing the older 12.4kWh pack. This improved range is particularly impactful for company car drivers, as Vauxhall reports the entry-level Astra PHEV now falls into the nine per cent company car tax bracket, down from 13 per cent previously. More expensive versions remain in the 16 per cent BiK bracket.
Performance and Transmission Upgrades
Alongside the battery upgrade, Vauxhall has incorporated a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. This, combined with the existing 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engine, pushes the PHEV’s combined power output from 178bhp to 192bhp. This results in quicker acceleration: the plug-in hatchback and estate now reach 62mph in 7.9 and 8.0 seconds, respectively – more than a second faster than the standard hybrid and pure-electric models.
Driving Modes
The Astra PHEV offers three driving modes to suit various situations:
- Hybrid: Balances fuel efficiency and performance.
- Electric: Enables silent driving using the electric motor.
- Sport: Delivers maximum performance.
Upgraded GSE Models
The more powerful Astra GSE and Astra Sports Tourer GSE also benefit from these upgrades. They retain the same electric motor but now feature a 178bhp petrol unit, resulting in a total output of 222bhp. The larger battery boosts their EV range to 50 miles, and they also benefit from the new seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox.
The GSE models can reach 84mph in pure-electric mode and accelerate from 0 to 62mph in 7.6 seconds (7.7 seconds for the Sports Tourer). These upgrades are complemented by enhanced styling, 18-inch wheels, a 10mm lower ride height, tuned suspension with firmer springs and Frequency Selective Damping technology, and quicker steering. In Sport mode, the electronic stability control engages slightly later, further enhancing the driving experience.
The updates to the Astra PHEV demonstrate Vauxhall’s commitment to delivering efficient, engaging, and increasingly electric vehicles.
The combination of a lower price, increased electric range, and enhanced performance makes the updated Vauxhall Astra PHEV a compelling choice in the competitive plug-in hybrid market. These changes solidify its appeal to both private buyers and company car drivers alike.
