THE sixth incarnation of the Astra is by far the best Vauxhall has come up with in the three decades it has been making the car.

It is a road-hugging beauty with a sleek stylish face and purposeful stance - and with the addition of a 2.0-litre diesel ecoFLEX engine with Start/Stop technology, it now offers performance and economy.

Press the pedal to the metal and the oil burner powers the Astra from a standing start to 60mph in 8.5 seconds - but drive normally and rainforest-friendly carbon dioxide emissions plus excellent fuel consumption are assured.

This is thanks in part to Vauxhall's Start/Stop system which switches the engine off when you stop at the lights or in traffic, then restarts automatically when the clutch is depressed.

Running costs are also helped by relatively low insurance and tax bandings while the 100,000-mile warranty is also a bonus.

It all adds up to a rather impressive package that manages a number of neat tricks.

Yes, the looks are smooth but Vauxhall hasn't fallen into the trap where style compromises practicality.

The roofline swoops towards the back, but this does not mean reduced space for rear passengers.

Head and legroom are generous for both front and back seat occupants while the wide cabin offers decent shoulder room as well.

When you get to the boot the surprise is a pleasant one as rear passenger comfort hasn't come at the expense of luggage room as the split-level boot can cater for plenty of suitcases or shopping.

This is achieved thanks to the Astra growing in size with the distance between its axles lengthened to yield more cabin room, while the wheels have been pushed out to make it more stable.

The result is a look that just begs you to drive the Astra down as many twisting country lanes as you can find.

The impressive exterior is backed up by an excellent interior with the cabin benefiting from high-quality plastics and sound proofing.

The dashboard design is snazzy, high tech and a button-pusher's paradise with lots to look at and investigate.

The SE model gets four powered windows, automatic lights and wipers, cruise control, air conditioning, steering wheel-mounted audio controls plus remote control central deadlocking.

There are also 17-inch 10-spoke alloys which look smart, electric parking brake, sport front seats and front fog lights.

Safety is taken seriously as stability control is fitted as standard to help keep you out of trouble - but should an accident occur there's also front, side and curtain airbags to help keep the driver and passengers safe from harm.

Active head restraints are also fitted to help minimise whiplash injuries in a rear-end collision.

Vauxhall has fitted a new rear suspension featuring the sophisticated Watts linkage system which is designed to give greater absorbency over small bumps without compromising the car's handling accuracy.

The steering resistance, springs, and dampers are also all set up to suit UK roads so further improving the driving experience.

There's lots of grip in bends and the steering is sharp and accurate. Body roll is well contained and on longer journeys the car is as pleasant as it is purposeful.

Vauxhall has done a decent job on the Astra which should ensure the model pulls in a new generation of fans as well as satisfying those who have become loyal to the car.