As Ford prepares to wow us with the new Focus, Vauxhall has released images of new models and more details of its revised model range. The line up first: the range will now consist of, in price order, Expression, Life, Club, SXi, Design, SRi and Elite. The new models have a more sporting bias with Design, SRi and SXi being the models aimed at the enthusiastic driver. The Astra range now spans seven models with six engines; a total of 28 combinations.

An addition to the hatchback range is the Estate variant offering all the basic virtues of the hatch in a more capacious body style. The Astra Estate offers up to 1,550 litres of cargo volume with the rear seats down and also features innovative ideas such as a sliding rear seat bench and "Flex Organiser" offering more practical usage of storage space.

The other, and probably the most interesting piece of Astra news revolves around the High Power Concept (HPC) shown at the Paris show. Almost certain to be a preview of forthcoming Vauxhall VXR variants, the HPC packs 240bhp from its turbocharged 2.0-litre four-cylinder unit; enough for a 150mph maximum and 0-60mph in 6.6 seconds. This is certainly quick enough to cause flutters amongst the Astra's rivals. The looks will cause tongues to wag as well, with aggressive front and rear spoilers and 19" alloys, the HPC's looks match its performance claims. If it drives as well as the new SRi we drove recently, it should be a belter.

Also on show in Paris is the innovative panoramic version with a windscreen that extends far back into the roofline offering a unique driving experience, as well as distinctive looks. We would hope to drive the VXR Astra during summer 2005, but in the mean time watch out for a review of the 2.0-litre turbo SRi in the main Road Tests page.

Dave Jenkins - 25 Sep 2004