The estate has all of the same safety features as the hatchback which scored a maximum five stars for occupant protection in the Euro NCAP crash tests. However, ESP stability control isn’t standard on any model except the top of the range SRi. The Astra estate does have twin front airbags and head curtain airbags (optional on Life models) along with Isofix mountings on the outer rear seats.

Although the Astra has less luggage capacity seats down than the Renault Megane Sport Tourer and the Peugeot 307 estate, extra versatility is offered by the FlexOrganiser pack. When chosen (it’s a £50 option) it can keep different items of luggage separate and secure, preventing them from rolling around in the back and is far more effective than a simple net.

At 1,550 litres, the total luggage capacity is slightly larger than the Ford Focus estate.