Images of a smaller, lighter and significantly re-styled Vauxhall Astra have been revealed, in what is the seventh incarnation of the 36-year-old model.

The new car will go on sale at the end of this year and will be 130kg lighter than the outgoing model. But despite being lighter, the new Astra actually delivers 3.4cm more legroom than the previous version and boasts around the same amount of boot space – 370 litres.

Thanks to a lowering of the ride height by 15mm, aerodynamic performance of the new Astra has improved. Add to this a sleeker, more speed-focussed exterior, and you get a far meaner, aggressive looking Astra.

Pronounced creases now run up the car's sides, while the front is dominated by a wide grille.

The more premium look has been compared to the revamped 1-Series from BMW, in an overall drive to lift the Astra's reputation and ultimately outclass its key rival, the Ford Focus.

Available in three-door, five-door and estate versions, the new Astra is to be manufactured in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire.

In-car technology

Multimedia, radio and optional satnav is accessed via a large touch screen in the middle of the dashboard. The car's computer system will support both the Android Auto and Apple CarPlay products.

Among the engines available will be the manufacturer's own 1.0 litre, three cylinder petrol turbo; 1.4- and 1.6-litre petrol engines; and a 1.6-litre ‘Whisper’ diesel – provided by Vauxhall's US parent firm, General Motors.

While no prices have been revealed by Vauxhall, entry-level versions of the new Astra are likely to start at around £13,000.

The car is set to appear at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September.