Vauxhall has expanded its electric vehicle lineup with the introduction of the Astra Sports Tourer Electric, offering a compelling and practical option for those seeking an electric estate car. Priced just under £40,000, the Sports Tourer Electric aims to fill a gap in the market, providing customers with an all-electric estate that combines versatility, performance, and affordability. Let’s delve into the key features and specifications that make the Astra Sports Tourer Electric a noteworthy addition to the electric vehicle landscape.
Affordable Electric Estate Option
The Astra Sports Tourer Electric enters the market with a starting price of £39,995, making it an enticing choice for those looking to transition to electric mobility without breaking the bank. Scheduled for first deliveries in spring 2024, this electric estate is set to be a game-changer in a segment that is still relatively sparse.
Key Performance Features
Under the hood, the Astra Sports Tourer Electric shares its powertrain with the Astra Electric hatchback. A front-mounted electric motor delivers 156bhp and 270Nm of torque, propelling the estate from 0 to 62mph in a respectable 9.2 seconds, with a top speed of 106mph. The vehicle utilizes a 54kWh (51.5kWh usable) battery, contributing to an impressive maximum range of 256 miles on a single charge.
Efficient Charging Capabilities
In line with modern electric vehicle capabilities, the Astra Sports Tourer Electric boasts a 100kW charging capacity. A 20 to 80 per cent charge can be achieved in just 26 minutes, offering convenience and minimizing downtime during longer journeys. Additionally, the vehicle comes equipped with an 11kW onboard charger as a standard feature across all Sport Tourer Electric models.
Interior and Cargo Space
The Sports Tourer Electric provides a practical and spacious interior. While the boot space of 516 litres improves upon the hatchback, it falls slightly short of direct competitors like the Peugeot E-308 SW, which offers a 548-litre capacity. With the rear seats folded down, the Vauxhall’s boot expands to 1,553 litres, still trailing the Peugeot by 21 litres.
Trim Levels and Features
The Astra Sports Tourer Electric is available in three trim levels: Design, GS, and Ultimate. The entry-level Design offers a host of features, including 18-inch diamond-cut alloy wheels, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, automatic LED headlights, front and rear parking sensors, forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist.
Stepping up to the GS trim at £42,345 introduces a sportier exterior with black alloy wheels, a black roof, bespoke bumpers, a black Vauxhall badge, and a blacked-out ‘Vizor’ grille. Additional technology features include a 360-degree parking camera, adaptive cruise control, keyless entry, a heated steering wheel, and heated front seats.
The top-of-the-line Ultimate trim, starting from £45,460, elevates the luxury with LED ‘IntelliLux’ pixel headlights, a head-up display, a wireless phone charger, a panoramic sunroof, a hands-free bootlid, roof rails, and Alcantara upholstery.
Conclusion
The Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric stands out as an affordable and versatile option in the electric estate segment. With competitive pricing, impressive performance features, and a range of trim levels catering to diverse preferences, this electric estate is poised to make a significant impact in the growing market for sustainable and practical transportation.
