Vauxhall has updated the Astra with more tech, along with hybrid and fully electric versions. If you’re not ready for an electric estate, you can still buy a petrol model. I’ve been driving the 130hp 1.2-litre petrol estate, which Vauxhall calls the Sports Tourer – aka, the Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer 1.2 130PS GS Auto.
The best tow cars for caravans offer safe, efficient and stable towing. In the case of the Vauxhall, it towed a lightweight Bailey Discovery D4-4 quite well – the engine doesn’t have the mid-range pulling power of a good turbodiesel, but it’s certainly not underpowered for towing.
You do need to be careful when matching a car to a caravan, however. The maximum towing figure is 1400kg if the vehicle comes with a caravan towbar and electrics from the factory. Cars that are retrofitted with towing gear at a Vauxhall dealer or an independent supplier have a more restrictive 1200kg limit.
Towing the Bailey, we found the Astra stable in still air, although it was pushed around a bit while passing HGVs and coaches.
In everyday driving, it isn’t as much fun as a Ford Focus, but it’s quiet and comfortable on the motorway.
Inside, there’s ample space up front, but legroom for passengers sitting in the back is tight. The boot is large, though, at 597 litres, offering plenty of storage for all of those caravan essentials.
Spec of the Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer 1.2 130PS GS Auto
- Price: £33,565
- Kerbweight: 1421kg
- 85% match: 1208kg
- Max towing weight: 1400kg (factory-fit towing gear)
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