We got to experience the Opel Astra facelift (Vauxhall Astra facelift) that features a revised front-end design, new lighting tech, new standard front seats, more recycled interior materials, and an extended WLTP range for the Astra Electric.
Here’s everything that we observed on the hybrid variant of the updated C-segment hatchback.
Design
With the 2026 facelift, Vauxhall’s “Vizor” brand face is narrower and more precisely drawn, with cues borrowed from the Vauxhall Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo concept that we checked out last year.
The facelift introduces a permanently illuminated emblem on the Astra for the first time. This badge serves as the anchor point for light strips that flow horizontally into the headlamps and vertically into the bonnet crease.
Vauxhall will also offer new 17- and 18-inch alloy wheel designs, plus two new metallic paint finishes called Kontur White and Klover Green as part of the facelift. A contrasting black roof continues to be available.
Lighting
The facelift introduces Intelli-Lux HD lights on the Astra facelift, which trickle down from the larger Grandland. The Astra’s adaptive, glare-free Intelli-Lux HD system uses more than 50,000 elements and can shade oncoming and preceding traffic faster and more precisely than earlier matrix systems.
In corners, it adds an extra light module on the turning side to improve side illumination and reduce dark patches.
Interior
Vauxhall is fitting Intelli-Seats as standard from the entry-level version of the Astra facelift. The front seats feature a centre recess inspired by road-bike saddle shapes, intended to reduce tailbone pressure on longer drives.
Buyers can also choose AGR-certified front seats with ReNewKnit upholstery, multi-stage heating, electro-pneumatic lumbar support, massage, and a memory function to improve travel comfort. Opel describes ReNewKnit as a mono-material with a suede-like look that is 100 percent recycled and recyclable.
Vauxhall took this opportunity to update the UI of the infotainment system and make it clearer and more intuitive. The company uses 100 percent recycled fabrics in the new Astra, alongside other resource-saving materials and surface finishes.
Experience in the Vauxhall Astra facelift
The new Vauxhall Astra has a low roofline, so I had to watch my head while getting in, even though the doors open wide. Once seated, the driving position works well for me as a six-footer. I get good back support, acceptable shoulder support, and enough headroom. The seat and headrest offer enough adjustment to find a comfortable position, while under-thigh and side support are adequate.
I find outward visibility decent in all directions, even though the windscreen is not especially tall. The steering wheel feels good in my hands thanks to its dual-texture finish. The centre armrest is also positioned well for everyday use.
With the front seat set to my driving position, the rear bench feels very tight. I do not get enough knee room, with my knees pressing into the back of the front seat. Headroom is acceptable and the headrests are adjustable, but the backrest does not recline.
At the back, I see air vents, a USB port, and a fold-down armrest with cup holders. The small quarter glass panels let some light into the cabin. Even so, I would not consider the new Astra suitable for carrying six-footers in the rear on a regular basis.
Specifications
The 2026 Vauxhall Astra Electric keeps a 58 kWh battery and extends its WLTP range to up to 454 km (282 miles), around 34 km (21 miles) more than the outgoing model. The facelift also introduces Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) capability, allowing the car to power external devices such as e-bikes and power tools.
Vauxhall quotes up to 1,339 litres (47.3 cu ft) of cargo space in the hatchback with the rear seats folded.
Price and release date
Also Read: First Look Review: Leapmotor B05 heads straight for the VW ID.3 & BYD Dolphin
The new Vauxhall Astra should arrive in the UK in the spring of 2026, with prices starting at around GBP 33,500 for the electric variant.
Trained as an automobile engineer, I’ve been following the global car market since 2005. Over the past 17 years, I’ve been involved in online automotive analysis and publishing, traveling the world to drive, evaluate, and experience new cars and technologies.
