Astra joins the eco warriors

Jan 25 2010 Mike Torpey

Astra joins the eco warriors

VAUXHALL is boosting its green credentials with the arrival of a fuel-efficient ecoFLEX model to the new Astra range.

The Astra line-up is already enjoying a 13.3 per cent average efficiency improvement over the previous model and ecoFLEX has CO2 emissions of just 109g/km and combined fuel consumption of 67.3mpg.

A raft of mechanical and aerodynamic improvements have resulted in the latest Astra ecoFLEX achieving a 12.1 per cent improvement in emissions over the 1.7 CDTi model, currently the new range's most efficient model.

Better still, the ecoFLEX's added tax benefits - VED down to £35.00 and BIK down to 13 per cent - take effect from the new tax year in April, when the car will hit UK showrooms with a starting price of £17,920.

The Astra ecoFLEX will be the first in the range to receive the economical 1.3 CDTi 95PS diesel engine, which has recently been seen in the revised Corsa.

Mated to a five-speed transmission with new ratios to optimise economy, the engine features a Diesel Particulate Filter and re-programmed engine control settings.

To improve airflow around the ecoFLEX, an active aero shutter has been fitted, which opens to allow air past the engine at low vehicle speeds, and then automatically closes at higher speeds to smooth airflow at the front of the car.

This system is complemented by re-tuned aerodynamics on the underside of the car, and to help drivers exploit the car's full eco credentials, a gear change-up light is standard on all ecoFLEXs.

This will also be the first five-door ecoFLEX-badged Vauxhall to be available in SRi trim, allowing drivers to opt for a sporty look, but without the higher taxation that generally brings.

S, Exclusiv and SE trims are also available, all of which benefit from the same environmental and tax advantages, which also includes a 100 per cent first year Writing Down Allowance for business fleets.