VAUXHALL'S Astra is one of those cars that seems to carry on regardless through generation after generation but it has certainly moved with the times.

Take one of the latest versions of the current range, the 1.7 CDTi ES Tech ecoFLEX which is one of the more powerful diesels in the line up yet is superbly economical.

With a combined mpg readout of 62.8 this engine also features an impressive emission CO2 emissions figure of 119g/km meaning that it will not cane the owner over road tax.

But this is not achieved at the expense of performance because this Astra has 122mph capability and a satisfying 0-60mph sprint of 10.7 seconds.

If the Astra diesels of the past could have done better it is that the noise levels were too high, but this model does seem a lot quieter -not as silent as a VW Golf diesel but certainly getting there.

With 125ps on tap, this £19,845 car is, as usual, locked in mortal sales combat with the Ford Focus and there are many arguments over which is better. These always rage on over handling and in the end it all comes down to personal preference.

The fact is that the latest Astra's handling is very sophisticated with nicely weighted steering -if lacking a little in road feel - rail-riding cornering properties and a ride that is worthy of a much more expensive car.

In terms of handling I have always thought that the Astra is somewhat underestimated and deserves much more praise.

And this upmarket approach is echoed in the interior which features ES Tech trim level which brings sat-nav, Bluetooth, DAB radio, air-con and 17in wheels as standard fit for £19,530.

Vauxhall has put a lot into this model and much thinking has gone into its market position. It is probably the model that has the power to tempt drivers of other cars into the Astra fold.

Full marks go to the neat six-speed manual gearbox with well-spaced ratios bringing a pleasing mix of relaxed cruising with rapid acceleration when needed.

Britain certainly seems to love the Astra because we buy 25 per cent of total production of this Ellesmere Port built car.

It features a strong cab-forward stance and is very aerodynamic.

If I have a problem with the styling it is that the grille of the latest version is a little too understated and does not do the car justice.

But it makes up for this in other ways including an astonishing amount of cabin storage solutions, some of which have even been patented.