VAUXHALL'S stylish new Astra hatchback has been on sale for just two weeks but already the company is revealing details of the new member of the family, the new Astra Estate.

Making its world debut at the Madrid Motor Show this week (May 20), the Astra Estate continues with the elegant and dynamic design that characterises the hatch, while at the same time adding extra space and versatility. And just like its hatchback stable mate, Vauxhall is promising the new model will be a rewarding drive. The Astra Estate goes on sale in November.

A 2700 mm wheelbase, (compared with 2614 for the hatchback) gives the new Astra Estate ample space for passengers and luggage. In addition the cargo space can be made even more versatile through the optional FlexOrganiser system, first introduced on the Vectra.

With the wheelbase which is around nine centimetres longer than the five-door and estate predecessor, the new estate offers a load volume of up to 505 litres under the luggage cover. Folding down the rear bench seat (standard 60:40 or optional 40:20:40 split), cargo volume is expanded to an exceptional 1570 litres.

Astra Estate's boot has straight side walls and storage areas both beneath the floor and in either side. A stainless steel rim protects the conveniently low boot sill from scratches. Estates don't need to be dull to look at. The front end of Vauxhall Astra's new estate will be well recognised from the dynamic look of the hatchback. At the rear, eye-catching three-dimensional lights feature while the profile of the estate is distinctive in the design of the windows which taper towards the rear.