VAUXHALL has released the first details of its fifth generation Astra range.

The new model goes on sale next spring and will be seen first at the Frankfurt International Motor Show in September.

The technological highlights of the third generation Astra include the adaptive suspension system IDS (Interactive Driving system) with Continuous Damping Control (CDC).

Vauxhall’s new AFL (Adaptive Forward Lighting) headlamp system is offered for the first time in the Astra size segment.

More state-of-the-art engineering is illustrated with automatic headlamp activation, which switches the cars lights on automatically in the dark, and new twinport petrol and common rail turbo-diesel engines.

The new Astra offers more passenger space than its predecessor, thanks to its slightly increased overall dimensions.

Initially, five petrol and three turbo-diesel engines - 1.4 to 2.0 litre with power outputs in the 80-200 hp range - will be available.

All are ECOTEC four-valve units that meet the Euro 4 exhaust emission standard. Vauxhall is also offering a five-speed manual gearbox, an automatic and Easytronic automated manual transmission.