Vauxhall Astra gets ride and steering upgrades
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by Oliver Dixon II CM has driven Vauxhall's new range of Astra estate cars which will form the basis of the new van in the summer,
The main power unit will be the existing 1,7-litre turbodiesel, although Vauxhall product engineers are also considering the 2.0-litre DI 16-valve 81hp (60kW) unit first fitted to the Vectra range last year. This develops 185Nin 36Ibft) of torque at 1,800rpm,
The revamped Astra range benefits from a new electroo hydraulic power steering system which, on first impression, offers more precision than the previous set-up. The ride has also been improved by incorporating a redesigned front subframe
which is designed as a single unit and mounted to the vehicle body at six points.
At the rear a torsion beam axle eliminates the need for a separate anti-roll bar.
On the road there is a huge difference heCurrent model: tween the 1.7 and
2.0-litre engines. The 2.0-litre is a sparkling performer which makes the 1.7 feel sluggish in comparison. Vauxhall has yet to decide its final LCV line-up, but it should certainly include the 2.0-litre engine. Lively performance coupled with better ride and handling would make the new Astra an attractive option.