VAUXHALL has revealed that the forthcoming estate versions of the new Astra will carry a premium of more than £1,000 over their hatchback equivalents.
Not only that, the cheapest version will be £2,050 more expensive than the entry-level hatchback model.
It means that whilst the hatchback range starts with the 1.4i Expression at £10,995, the estate range will begin with the 1.4i Life at £13,045. The same model in hatchback form has a list price of £11,995, representing an estate car premium of £1,050.
Prices will ultimately rise to £18,695 for the 150bhp version of the 1.9-litre diesel with top-of-the-range trim and equipment when the estates arrive here in November.
A slightly longer wheelbase achieves the ideal compromise between interior passenger space and the rear cargo area, with up to 505 litres of room beneath the luggage cover. This increases to 1,570 litres with the rear seats folded flat.
The boot has straight side walls and storage areas beneath the floor and in each side, with a stainless steel rim to protect the low boot sill from scratches.
A visual feature of the new rear end is the striking pair of three-dimensional lights, whilst the profile of the vehicle is distinctive in the design of the windows that taper towards the rear.
The estate will be available with the same engines as the five-door, which amount to four petrol and three diesels with sizes from 1.4-litres to two-litres and power outputs from 90bhp to 170bhp.
Transmissions include a six-speed manual for both of the 1.9-litre turbodiesel engines and the two-litre petrol turbo, a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic, and the latest version of the Easytronic system, which is available in the 1.6-litre petrol version.
Options will include an automatic levelling system, trailer stability programme, and Hill Start Assist.