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Vauxhall have released the first images of their 7th generation Astra. Production of the new hatchback will start later this year, in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire.

Vauxhall say the new cars lines designed by Brit, Mark Adams, (see our gallery below for more images),  have been inspired by the 2013 Monza Concept. Smaller than the last Astra, with a length of 4.37m, it is almost 5cm shorter than the car it replaces. With a height of 1.46m, it is also 2.6cm lower. The dimensions have had an impact on aerodynamics too, with the new Astra having a drag coefficient below 0.30, which will be good news for fuel economy.

Dependent on model and specification, the 2015 Astra will be up to 200kg lighter than the outgoing model – which should translate into more good news for consumers at the fuel pumps.

While the wheelbase may have been reduced by 2cm, the amount of space inside has increased. In combination with newly-designed seats, passengers now have an additional 35mm of legroom. The distance between the front- and rear-seats is increased providing more space and more comfort say Vauxhall.

As before, the Astra will be available with both petrol and diesel engines, with power outputs ranging from 98 bhp to 197 bhp.  

The new Astra will also be the first Vauxhall to come with OnStar from launch, a person connectivity, safety and comfort service.

Making its debut in the new Astra will be a new generation of Intellilink, General Motors' infotainment system as well. The updated version will be compatible with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.

Other technology available on the new Astra will include traffic sign assistant, lane departure warning, forward collision alert with collision imminent braking and advanced park assist.