Why the Next Vauxhall Astra is Ditching the Hatch: My Exclusive Auto Express Illustration


I recently had the pleasure of creating an exclusive illustration for Auto Express to bring the upcoming eighth-generation Vauxhall Astra to life, and I wanted to share a behind-the-scenes look at the design direction with you all.

If there is one major takeaway for the 2030 model, it's the dramatic departure from the traditional hatchback. With buyers migrating heavily toward SUVs and premium superminis, Vauxhall is preparing to leave the conventional five-door C-segment shape in the rearview mirror. My artwork was specifically crafted to visualize this bold evolution.


A New, Dynamic Stance

Instead of the classic compact proportions we are all used to, I gave the new design a much more dynamic, reproportioned shape. You'll notice it adopts a slightly raised, crossover-like stance—reminiscent of the Citroën C4—that commands significantly more presence on the road. It is a necessary shift to keep the Astra competitive and visually striking in a rapidly changing market.


The "Estate-First" Identity

I also focused heavily on capturing Vauxhall's new estate-first identity. Because station wagons remain in incredibly high demand in the brand's domestic German market, my render highlights an elongated roofline, a stretched wheelbase, and a sleek yet highly practical rear profile. The goal was to show exactly how the Astra can offer serious, family-friendly cargo space without defaulting to a bulky, traditional SUV boxiness. You get the utility without sacrificing the sweeping lines of a well-designed car.


Designed for an Electric Future

Underneath the sheet metal, this new design is built to accommodate Stellantis’ STLA One platform, which Vauxhall has confirmed will be battery-electric first. I made sure the artwork reflects these EV underpinnings. The design showcases the aerodynamic efficiency, shorter front and rear overhangs, and a modernized, closed-off front fascia required for a next-generation electric vehicle.

Ultimately, I hope my design translates the core message of the new Astra: it won't just be a recycled hatchback, but a bold, space-maximizing estate built for an electric future.