The new, updated Vauxhall Astra will be launched at the 2009 Frankfurt Motor show and images released by the manufacturer already have fans of the car drooling. After its initial debut at the Motor Show the Astra will be on general UK sale towards the end of the year.

One of the main selling points of the new Astra will be its increased cabin space. This mid-sized family car is often expected to carry up to five passengers in the average household so space is generally very important to buyers. The space within the body of the Astra has been increased and will deliver higher levels of comfort and space for both the driver and any front and back seat passengers.

The cabin of the Astra has also been given a more "premium" feel. Vauxhall have recognised that buyers are searching for value but also quality. The interior of the new Vauxhall Astra has elements of the Insignia and the wrap around instrument panel is particularly striking and well laid out. Vauxhall are aiming to raise the bar in the compact car class and early photos and press releases suggest they might just achieve this.

The popular outgoing Astra is still on sale, with prices starting from around £15,000 OTR. As with many new cars when a new model is set to be released dealers are keen to shift their existing stock, so shop around and haggle. You may grab yourself a real bargain. The current Astra is an impressive and successful car in its own right. It is available with a choice of engines in both petrol and diesel and boasts a five star NCAP crash test rating, so safety standards are high.

Vauxhall currently have a variety of deals in place for the Astra and all other models in their range. A popular deal available on the Astra currently is a zero percentage finance offer. The Government scrappage scheme could also save you a further £2000 if you have a car over 10 years old that you are willing to trade in against a new car.