Based on the platform of the Astra estate, New Astravan retains the dynamic abilities, style and comfort of the car but with even greater practicality. Every component has been reassessed or redesigned so it's purpose-built for commercial duties, yet from behind the wheel it still feels little different to the car.

New Astravan will be built alongside the Astra five-door hatchback at GM's manufacturing facility in Ellesmere Port, Cheshire. The plant was home to the current Astravan until 2004, when the line was transferred to Poland to make way for car production.

New Astravan uses the same basic design as the Astra Estate, but the rear axle has been redesigned to allow the fuel tank to be moved. This allows for extra load space and a completely flat floor without harming the driving dynamics, while the rear torsion beam has been adapted to cater for carrying heavier loads.

Initially, New Astravan will be available with a choice of three diesel engines and one petrol.

The flagship model will use the 120PS 1.9-litre CDTi powerplant from the Astra car range, offering class leading performance, refinement and running costs. A revised version of the current Astravan's 1.7-litre CDTi unit developing 100PS will also be on offer, along with a 90PS version of Vauxhall's award-winning 1.3CDTi engine.

All three diesel units will be Euro 4 compliant from launch, as will the one petrol addition to the range. Powered by a 90PS 1.4-litre engine, the petrol Astravan makes use of GM's advanced Twinport technology.

New Astravan will arrive at Vauxhall LCV retailers in autumn 2006. Until then, the current Astravan will remain on sale.