VAUXHALL has unveiled the new four-door Astra saloon which goes on sale in the UK in the autumn. The front-wheel-drive Astra saloon is around 14 cms (5.5in) longer than the hatchback, which like the estate version, is already on sale.

The new five-passenger saloon will be powered by the same range of five petrol and two diesel engines - ranging from the 1.2-litre version due in the autumn to the 2.0-litre diesel.

Prices will be announced closer to the launch date, but current practice for most manufacturers is for saloon pricing to mirror five-door hatchback pricing. Trim levels will be similar to those on hatchback and estate versions.

Vauxhall claims the saloon has class-leading aerodynamics (0.29Cd) and its 2.61-metre wheelbase and 460-litre boot ensures lots of room for both passengers and luggage. Options will include traction control, air conditioning, ABS, passenger airbag, side airbags and steering wheel remote controls for the audio unit.