Vauxhall has updated its Astra plug-in hybrid range with a bigger battery pack that extends electric driving range to 52 miles. The update covers both the hatchback and Sport Tourer estate versions.
The previous Astra PHEV used a 12.4kWh battery offering 39 miles of electric-only range. The new 17.2kWh pack adds 13 miles to that figure without increasing the car’s price.
Pricing remains unchanged – the hatch starts at £39,150 and the Sport Tourer at £40,695.
The larger battery brings significant benefits for company car drivers. The entry-level Astra GS now falls into the 9% company car tax bracket, down from 13%. Higher-spec versions drop into the 16% BiK rate.
Performance Upgrades
Vauxhall paired the bigger battery with a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. Combined power output increases from 178bhp to 192bhp.
The hatchback now reaches 62mph in 7.9 seconds, while the estate takes 8.0 seconds. That’s a full second quicker than both the regular hybrid and fully electric Astra models.
Three driving modes are available: Hybrid for balanced efficiency and performance, Electric for silent running, and Sport for more spirited driving.
GSE Performance Variant
The sportier 222bhp GSE versions also get the 17.2kWh battery, though their electric range is slightly lower at 50 miles. Both hatchback and Sport Tourer GSE models include the seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox as standard.
GSE styling is more aggressive than the regular Astra. It rides 10mm lower on 18-inch wheels with tuned suspension featuring stiffer springs and Frequency Selective Damping.
The steering is quicker, and in sport mode, electronic stability control intervenes later to allow more spirited driving.
Performance remains relatively modest despite the sporty appearance. Electric-only top speed reaches 84mph. The GSE hatch accelerates to 62mph in 7.6 seconds, while the Sport Tourer takes 7.7 seconds. A “specially tuned GSE engine sound” accompanies acceleration.
GSE pricing starts at £43,600 for the hatchback and £44,950 for the Sport Tourer.
The updates align with Stellantis-owned Vauxhall’s strategy to make the transition from petrol and diesel to electrified driving more accessible for UK motorists.
