Vauxhall deserve real credit for making another Astra which gets the juices flowing. The old model was good. Very good, in fact. So good, that a cynic may have wondered how it could be improved when you consider that these classes of cars are produced on a budget.

But somehow, the Astra has come a long, long way since the first boxy-looking model was launched.

Designed to be visually appealing and packed full of clever stuff, this latest variant has a much broader remit. Not only must it attract buyers seeking to switch from one medium-size hatch to another or trade up from something smaller, but it must also satisfy the needs of those downsizing from larger, more luxurious cars.

As a result, this latest generation Astra hatchback is a world away from its humble beginnings all those years ago. Borrowing heavily from the larger Insignia, it boasts plush upholstery and cabin trim, a generous level of standard equipment, big-car levels of refinement and distinctive styling that does much to distance it from rivals offering a lower cost but also lower-rent experience.

And a low-rent experience is not something you’re going to get with this Astra. It all starts with the car’s exterior; the wide, purposeful stance and flowing lines ape those of the Insignia – a positive role model if ever there was one.

The Astra’s cabin is no less impressive.

A lot of attention has been focused on creating a premium ambience through the use of quality materials. Space has also been improved, with some welcome extra room where it counts. Factor in the car’s supportive seats and there’s no question that the various changes have lifted the Astra above the mainstream.

In recent years Vauxhall has been praised for the improvements it has made to the driving experience, and this Astra takes this a step further. As you would expect, engine choice is wide and varied, with the overall focus on efficiency savings.

Although Vauxhall is keen to tempt more regular buyers into showrooms – witness the Astra’s enhanced cabin and long list of equipment – the fleet market remains a big slice of Vauxhall’s business. As such, the firm’s 1.7-litre CDTi diesel is a cornerstone of the range as it’s been tuned to deliver a balance of good performance plus fleet manager-friendly running costs and low CO2.

In raw terms the driving experience is a considerable leap forward; ride quality is impressive, the car changes direction with real conviction and the steering is direct.

For the company car driver racking up the miles, the Astra’s hushed cabin and adjustable driving position should ensure a stress-free day. On top of that there’s a spacious boot, while access to the rear seats is better than expected.

Big car features play a prominent role in the Astra, with the likes of directional headlights, a full-on audio system, sat-nav and phone function plus a switchable sports ride function all available from the options list.

Such items, once the preserve of more expensive premium cars, dovetail nicely with the already generous levels of standard comfort and safety equipment. Vauxhall’s desire to position the Astra further up the desirability ladder isn’t a hollow act, but one that can be seen everywhere from the car’s high levels of fit and finish to the upmarket choice of trim materials.

PRICE: from £18,015 on the road.

ENGINE: 1.7-litre turbo diesel unit developing 110bhp via six-speed manual transmission as standard, driving the front wheels.

PERFORMANCE:: Maximum speed 113mph, 0-62mph 11.8 seconds.

COSTS: 60.1mpg.

CO2 EMISSIONS: 124g/km.