Vauxhall AstraPacked with standard equipment, the Vauxhall Astra ES Tech has been added to the price lists with immediate effect.

Vauxhall claims the car features equipment as standard which is normally reserved for the options list, including sat-nav, Bluetooth, a DAB radio and 17-inch alloy wheels.

The trim level is available with a variety of engines, the cheapest being the 138bhp 1.4T petrol unit at £18,110. Also offered is the 123bhp 1.7CDTi powerplant, for £19,530.

Vauxhall is especially bullish about the appeal of the Astra ES Tech, claiming that the 1.4T is cheaper, faster and more powerful than its Volkswagen Golf 1.4TSI rival, while also being better equipped.

The company is also comparing the diesel edition with the new Ford Focus, claiming that the Vauxhall comes with more standard equipment while competing on equal terms when it comes to price and performance.

By Richard Dredge