Vauxhall has priced the new 2011 Astra GTC at just £18 495, which is £1 100 less than the alternative - a basic Volkswagen Scirocco. The new hot hatchback from Vauxhall comes with the sophisticated front suspension from the Insignia VXR combined with the clever Watt's link rear axle.

"The GTC is a high-profile addition to the Astra range and one that's sure to appeal to anyone who loves cars and driving," commented Duncan Aldred, Vauxhall's Managing Director.

"Better still, its chassis has been fine-tuned by Vauxhall Engineering Centre in the UK, reflecting the importance of our Millbrook-based operation, and also the fact that the UK will be the dominant market for GTC when it arrives in showrooms later this year.", he added.

2011 Vauxhall Astra GTC will make its official debut at the 2011 Goodwood Festival of Speed, which will be held from July 1st to 3rd.

2011 Vauxhall Astra GTC

There will be four engines in the line-up. The first one is a 2.0 liter CDTi with 165PS and 380Nm of torque (including overboost function). It is mated to a 6-speed gearbox and Start/Stop as standard. 0 to 100 km/h in 8.9 seconds and a top speed of 209 km/h (130 mph). Last, but not least is the fuel consumption – 57.6mpg with emissions of just 129 g/km of CO2. The range of Astra GTC 2.0 CDTi is over  1126 km (700 miles).

The second choice is 1.4 litre turbo petrol engine with either 120PS or 140PS with 200Nm available between 1850 and 4200RPM. It also achieves staggering fuel consumption – 47.9 mpg and 139 g/km of C02. Again, Start/Stop and a six-speed gearbox are also standard.

The top-of-range 1.6 litre Turbo delivers 180PS. However, nothing is mentioned about performance characteristics, but it will be definitely a real hot hatch.

Standard equipment is generous. The entry level Sport trim features 18" alloy wheels, DAB stereo and USB functionality. The top-spec Sri adds tinted glass, onboard computer, leather-trimmed steering wheel and fog lamps. There are also Bi-Xenon Advanced Forward Lighting (AFL), which offers nine separate light beams, is optional across the range.

2011 Vauxhall Astra GTC is priced at £18 495 for the 120PS Sport 1.4 Turbo. 2011 Vauxhall Astra GTC

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Source: Vauxhall