TWO new engines are on the way for Vauxhall's Astra range, both of which comply with the latest, more stringent Euro 6d-TEMP emissions standard, which includes real driving emissions measured on public roads.

The new standard doesn't come into force for new registrations until September next year, but Vauxhall is getting ahead of the game with new Euro 6d-TEMP compliant petrol and diesel power units for both the Astra hatch and tourer.

Producing 200PS and 300Nm, the new 1.6-litre petrol engine with either six-speed manual or automatic transmissions can power the Astra to a maximum speed of 146mph and achieve 0-60mph in just 7.3 seconds. Fuel economy is 43.5mpg (combined) and CO2 emissions are 151g/km.

In order to reduce particulate emissions as much as possible, the 1.6-litre direct injection petrol engine features a close-coupled gasoline particulate filter.

The new 1.6-litre CDTi diesel unit produces 136PS and 320Nm of torque and will also be available with either manual or automatic transmission. It achieves combined fuel economy from 64.2mpg and CO emissions from 116g/km.

The diesel is equipped with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology to further cut nitrogen oxide emissions.

Order books are open now for both Hatch and Sports Tourer variants with the new petrol engine and for the diesel hatchback at prices starting from £20,595. Sports Tourer models fitted with the new diesel engine will follow soon after.

Vauxhall says that the rapid transition to Euro 6d-TEMP compliancy is part of its strategy to become a leader in vehicle emissions reduction.

The next steps toward this goal, says the company, will be the introduction of four electrified models by 2020, including a fully-electric version of the next generation Corsa and a plug-in hybrid powered addition to the Grandland X line-up.

The company says its' aim is to become fully electrified by 2024 offering a hybrid or a battery electric version of every passenger car model in its portfolio.