We say Great style with functionality and a vastly improved high-quality interior. Decent range of engines, too, but not much fun to drivePerformance The most powerful engine in the range is a 2.0-litre CDTi diesel unit worth 160bhp. It clears 60mph in nine seconds flat and hits a top speed of 133mph. Some smaller petrol engines are underpowered so the diesels make more of a case for selection.Emissions Emissions and fuel economy figures are decent with the MEriva courtesy of some strong diesel engines in its line-up. The best is the 93bhp 1.3-litre CDTi unit with ecoFLEX technology. It returns 68mpg and emits 109g/km in CO2 emissions, unfortunately it’s also underpowered. Stick to mid-range diesels.Driving The Astra Sports Tourer is good to drive and, like the hatchback, the dynamics are far superior to those on the previous-generation Astra. Unfortunately it doesn’t match the Ford Focus estate in this department which is more agile, composed and responsive.Feel Ride comfort is good, handling precise and the uprated rear suspension dampers, because it is an estate, the ride is better and feels more planted. It’s firm but never uncomfortable.Space Total load space of 500-litres (when fitted with the optional tyre inflation kit) with the rear seats up. Also available is the 73 litres of additional storage space beneath the cargo floor.Equipment There are four trim levels on the Astra Sports Tourer comprising ES, Exclusiv, SRi and SE. All trims come with air conditioning, daytime running lights and front electric windows.Price Pricing for the Vauxhall Astra sports Tourer starts from a nudge over £17,000 and rises to £25,000 for range-topping models.Quality Jump inside and you’ll find that the design is similar to the larger Insignia and the Astra hatch. It is worlds away from the previous Astra estate and the materials used on the dash are softer and of better quality.Safety With the Astra hatch scoring the maximum five-star rating in official Euro NCAP tests, we expect Sports Tourer to also gain this rating. All models come with ESP and six airbags as standard.Pros Designed and built in Britain, classy and sporty styling, hugely practical fold flat seating and load carrying capacity, UK tuned handling, good ride comfort, low running costs, vastly improved interior quality and modern styling, new higher pride of owneCons Alloy wheels are extra cost, noisy diesel engine at start up and idling, large front quarter blind spots as with the Astra five door Hatch.Alternatives Ford Focus Estate, Kia Cee’d SW
