Verdict:  Vauxhall’s new tax-busting engine gives Astra a fresh lease of life.

What’s hot?

• Take a bow, Vauxhall.  This new age 1.6 diesel scores highly for smoothness and refinement. It’s decently punchy too in this 136 ps guise.
•  Low noise and vibration means there’s very little of the usual diesel clatter with this urbane 1.6 CDTi.
• Strong, easy torque (320 Nm peaking at just 2000 rpm) gives the Astra fine low/mid range flexibility.
• It’s Vauxhall’s first ever all aluminium diesel, so lighter than previous generations which in turn helps the eco numbers and handling.
• Already Euro 6 compliant, this ‘clean’ 1.6 CDTI with Stop/Start is sub 100 g/km in base 110 ps edition (so £0 VED). It’s 104 g/km with this 136 ps version.
• Combined economy of 72.4 mpg is well ahead of the outgoing 1.7 CDTI.
• With keen throttle response, the 1.6 CDTI spins easily. Conversely, it’s pleasantly hushed when cruising.
• An updated 6-speed gearbox with improved shift action also ties in with this new wave 1.6 diesel.
• Well damped, supple suspension gives a nicely compliant ride, even on the test car’s optional 19-inch alloy whels (£565).
• Accurate and fluent handling is another key part of the Astra’s repertoire.
•  16% BIK company car tax banding and company car tax of just £59.42 a month for a 20% taxpayer.
•  All the usual Astra attributes of space, practicality and comfort in this class.
• The latest Astra shape, born in 2009, is still standing up well in terms of design.

What’s not?

• Vauxhall’s new 1.6 diesel doesn’t whisper so much if you extend it to high revs. At that point, yes, it does become noisy.
• The 110 ps Astra CDTI with lower BIK and stronger mpg/C02 numbers offers a more compelling price position for company car drivers.Even more so if you choose one of the lesser model grades (the 136 ps test SRi is close to the top).
• The Astra faces intense competition in the segment, especially from the likes of VW’s Golf Bluemotion which is the newer/greener car.