The Vauxhall Astra has gained a new 48V mild-hybrid powertrain for a 19% reduction in fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. 

Available in both the hatchback and estate variants, it's the first such powertrain to be offered in the popular family car. It combines a 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbo petrol engine with a 0.89kWh battery and an electric motor, producing a total of 151bhp and 169lb ft.

That power is sent to the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that was developed specifically for this powertrain. 

The Miller-cycle engine uses a variable-geometry turbocharger, which allows the driver to access its performance at lower bands of the rev range.

Vauxhall claims fuel consumption has been improved by 19% over the pure-ICE Astra, with WLTP economy of up to 60.1mpg. CO2 emissions meanwhile are as low as 112g/km, matching the Volkswagen Golf eTSI.

As well as improving economy, the new powertrain increases performance, particularly around town or when manoeuvring. 

The 0-62mph time has been slashed by 0.7sec for the hatchback, which completes the sprint in 9.0sec. The estate takes 0.3sec longer.

The Astra is the third model in Vauxhall's range to use this powertrain, after the Corsa and Grandland. It's also used by other models under the Stellantis umbrella, including the Peugeot 3008 and Jeep Avenger.

The same specification grades are available as before, those being Design, GS and Ultimate.

Design starts at £30,025 and gets 16in alloy wheels, a 10in infotainment screen and wireless smartphone mirroring. GS is available for £2295 more, adding deeper front and rear bumpers, 17in alloys and heated seats. Ultimate starts at £37,860 and brings Alcantara trim and a panoramic roof.

The MHEV Astra is available to order now, with first customer deliveries due in July.