VAUXHALL has given a first glimpse of the interior of its new Astra. The car goes on sale in spring next year and boasts elements normally found in the luxury sector.

According to the company, one “striking” styling cue is the characteristic crease on the clearly-arranged centre console that runs from the front of the bonnet and right through into the interior.

Other developments in the Astra driver and passenger space include three-dimensional instruments and a 6.5 inch monitor for the information display.

A new “infotainment” system will be available and will be stretching from a top-quality audio unit with MP3 function to a digital radio with CD quality and a six-CD changer integrated into the front panel.

There are new steering wheel remote controls with buttons and turn-press wheels similar to those on a computer mouse for safe and comfortable selection of functions.

Briton Martin Smith, Vauxhall’s executive director of design, said: “Astra’s interior demonstrates the importance we attach to quality appearance and ease of operation when designing the interior of our cars.”