Vauxhall Astra (2010) ecoFLEX arrives

Vauxhall has added the ecoFLEX to the Astra range

There was a time – not so long ago – when car makers trumpeted the arrival of the range-topping, high-performance model of a new car shortly after the main range launched. But now the fanfares are reserved for the super-eco model. Such are the times in which we live.

Vauxhall have announced that the 2010 Astra range is to be added to, with the reveal of the Astra ecoFLEX which, as the name will already tell you, is the super-economy version of the very able Astra.

Powered by the 95bhp 1.3 litre CDTI turbo diesel from the Corsa , the Astra ecoFLEX manages 67.3mpg and has emissions of 109g/km CO2. The usual stuff has been done to make the Astra sip fuel and produce not much more than fresh air.

These include low rolling resistance tyres, tweaked ECU, DPF (Diesel Particulate Filter – a good addition to any diesel), new gearbox ratios, a gear-change light and underbody tweaking of the aerodynamics. Also added is an active aero-shutter which allows air past the engine at low speeds, but shuts at higher speeds to smooth airflow round the car.

Prices for the Astra ecoFlex start at £17,920 and thankfully the ecoFLEX isn’t a stand alone model but can be had in S, Exclusiv, SE or SRi trim.

By Cars UK