The Stunning Vauxhall Astra GTC

The Vauxhall Astra GTC is not your normal Astra as everything has been changed from the normal version. The GTC has sliced lines and a high-set back, which makes it look completely different from the five-door hatch. The Astra GTC rivals cars like VW Scirocco and Renault Megane Coupe. The Astra is not only different in its looks but also its driving dynamics have been tweaked to make it more sharp and striking. Its suspension setup is taken from the Insignia VXR to improve handling which gives it plenty of grip on the road alongside a neutral handling balance.

The Astra GTC will be offered in four Vauxhall engines, two diesel and two petrols with start/stop as standard, which will help reduce in carbon emissions. The GTC handles well and looks smart but there are new cars on the market which offer the same for less money. There is a new trend in the car industry; take an existing model and make a GT version of it. SEAT Leon became Leon SC and Kia did the same by launching Pro_cee'd Gc, however, the stunning Vauxhall Astra GTC is definitely a car worth buying. The GTC sets itself apart from the standard Vauxhall Astra version by giving an option for 19 and 20-inch alloy wheels, boosting its kerb-side appeal.

However, when it comes to the interior, things are the same as in the standard model. The basic ‘Sport' version has lots of equipment but it's all the same as standard car. You need to get the SRi trim in order to have proper sports seats, brushed aluminium effect centre console and a leather steering wheel. The dashboard is an exact copy of the standard Astra and is crowded with lots of buttons and dials. The interior is lack luster, steering is insentient and the ride is uninspiring on bigger alloys. However, its concept car looks, efficient engines and balanced ride make it a good choice for speed lovers. The looks are not only the improved feature in the Astra GTC but its driving dynamic have been improved too.

It feels much more stable and planted on the road, thanks to a lower and improved suspension. Vauxhall has tuned the GTC especially for UK roads, and the results are felt once you drive it. There is a lot of grip and it feels balanced and steady, even on rough surfaces. The ride is rigid but not uncomfortable. The GTC offers a nice balance between performance and comfort. The Astra GTC is not quite as polished as the Renault Megane Coupe or as much fun as the SEAT Leon SC, but it's still a good road runner. There have been no big problems reported with the Astra's gearboxes and engines as Vauxhall's reputation for reliability is on the up.

It comes with host of safety features like ESP, six airbags, electronic brake distribution etc. SRi versions also get hill start assist. There are optional safety features like adaptive cornering headlights and rear parking sensors. The Euro NCAP crash tests gave it a full five-star rating. It has an improved fuel economy as all models are equipped with stop/start system. The most efficient engine is the 2.0-litre CDTi which gives the best mix of efficiency and performance. It churns out 57.6mpg at just 119g/km of CO2 emissions. The boot capacity is much bigger than any of its rivals i.e. 380 litre with seats up and it increases to 1165 litres with seats down. The Vauxhall Astra GTC is reasonably priced, chic and good substitute to coupes such as VW Scirocco. It is brilliant to drive, practical and generously equipped. It is sensationally fast and doesn't cost a fortune.

Callum Wright is an auto engine expert working for Uesd Petrol & Diesel Engines for Sale, go to Vauxhall Astra Engines For Sale to buy or get any advice, call on 0044 (o) 20 8596 9961.

Callum Wright is an auto engine expert working for Replacement Engines UK