New 200hp engine for Vauxhall Astra

The Vauxhall Astra GTC is now available with a 1.6-litre direct injection engine that produces 200hp – making it the most powerful non-VXR Astra ever.

The new four-cylinder Ecotec engine is the same as that used in the convertible Vauxhall Cascada.

On Bing: see pictures of the Vauxhall Astra GTC

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Vauxhall claims the new engine is one of the most refined units in the segment, and also points at its improved performance and fuel economy figures over the previous 1.6-litre turbocharged motor.

The engine propels the Astra GTC to 60mph in 7.3 seconds, while returning 51.0mpg and emitting 154g/km CO2. It reaches a top speed of 143mph.

The company has fitted a host of engineering measures to improve noise, vibration and harshness, including twin balancer shafts for smoother running.

At the same time, Vauxhall has introduced its Intellilink infotainment system to the Astra GTC. The system costs from £855 and features a 7-inch touchscreen display providing access to satellite navigation, voice control and Bluetooth phone and audio connectivity.

Orders for the new 200hp Vauxhall Astra GTC are now open, with deliveries expected in spring. Pricing starts at £20,995.

Vauxhall Astra GTC 1.7 CDTi Sport review (2012 onwards)

Vauxhall Cascada review (2013 onwards)

On Bing: see pictures of the Vauxhall Astra GTC

Find out how much a used Vauxhall Astra GTC costs on Auto Trader

By motoringresearch.com