Tags: #ev-technology #electric-vehicles #ev-ownership
An electric take on a traditional family estate, the Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer Electric focuses on space, comfort and ease of use.
The Astra Sports Tourer Electric is exactly what it says on the tin, an estate version of Vauxhall’s electric Astra, designed for buyers who need space without opting for an SUV. Options for electric estates are limited, so the Astra Sports Tourer has the potential to fill a niche for families looking for space and practicality in a familiar format.
The Ultimate trim version reviewed here, comes with a 54kWh battery and a 115kW (156 bhp) electric motor that produces 199 lb‑ft of torque. It delivers smooth, predictable acceleration suitable for everyday driving. The car also features Vauxhall’s Pure Panel dual-screen dashboard, adaptive cruise control, IntelliLux LED Pixel headlights, and a large practical boot.
The Astra Sports Tourer Electric is easy to drive and composed for a car of its size. Acceleration is smooth, although 0–62 mph in 9.2 seconds keeps it firmly in family-car territory. Steering is light and predictable, making town driving effortless, while the suspension keeps motorway cruising quiet and comfortable, and effectively soaks up potholes and uneven surfaces.
Body control feels reassuring, with only modest lean through corners, giving you confidence without compromising on ride quality. Longer motorway journeys are comfortable too and the steering remains light and predictable, making the car easy to place on the road.
Refinement is another strong point. Wind and road noise are minimal, vibrations are well controlled, and regenerative braking is smooth and adjustable via the drive modes, allowing you to tailor one-pedal driving to your preference. It isn’t a sporty car, but for buyers prioritising comfort, practicality, and a stress-free driving experience, it delivers what’s needed.
The 54kWh battery delivers a WLTP combined range of up to 256 miles, I found that real-world use was typically around 210–220 miles depending on driving style, load, and weather conditions. For most families, this is more than sufficient for daily school runs, and weekend trips, though longer journeys may require a short charging stop.
Rapid charging at 130kW allows a 10–80% top-up in roughly 30 minutes, while a full home charge on an 1 kW wallbox takes around 5.5 hours, making overnight charging easy.
The Astra Sports Tourer Electric keeps the classic estate profile with clean, understated lines. Ultimate trim adds larger alloys, a contrasting roof, and subtle gloss‑black touches that give it a more premium look without shouting “electric car.” The long roofline flows neatly into the rear, emphasising practicality while maintaining a cohesive, modern appearance.
Inside, the cabin combines modern tech with everyday usability. Vauxhall’s twin 10‑inch Pure Panel displays are clear and customisable, and physical buttons for key functions make the system intuitive on the move. However, some lower plastics feel less premium, and the cabin can feel slightly dark compared with rivals. Rear visibility is also restricted by wide pillars, and taller passengers may notice reduced rear headroom. Overall, the interior is practical, well-equipped, and comfortable for families, though it can feel a little bland compared with rivals.
The Astra Sports Tourer Electric is easy to live with day to day. The boot is generous for an EV at 516 litres, expanding to 1,553 litres with the rear seats folded, and split-folding rear seats add flexibility for larger loads. There are several storage compartments throughout the cabin, to help keep everyday items organised. Front seats are also comfortable and supportive, making longer journeys relaxed, while Ultimate trim adds heated front seats, a heated steering wheel.
Electric estates remain a niche market, so the Astra Sports Tourer Electric occupies a unique position. Its main rivals include, the MG5 EV which offers a more affordable, no-frills alternative. While the Peugeot e-308 SW sits at the premium end, with slightly sharper styling and a more upmarket interior. Compared with these rivals, the Astra strikes a balance between practicality, comfort, and equipment, offering a roomy boot, intuitive tech, and a composed driving experience without feeling overly expensive or complicated.
Personally, I’d take an estate over an SUV any day, they’re a more engaging drive and less boaty, also because they stand out from the sea of SUVs on our roads. So, for buyers who specifically want an electric estate, the Astra Sports Tourer Electric is a compelling choice. It delivers generous space, a quiet and comfortable ride, and a comprehensive kit list, making it a sensible and practical option for families. It may not excite those looking for sportiness or cutting-edge design, but it does exactly what it promises.
Price (RRP OTR): From £40,000 – £44,000 (Ultimate)
Top speed: 105mph
0–62 mph: 9.2 seconds
Power: 115 kW
Torque: 199 lb‑ft
Driving range (combined): up to 256 miles
Charging time: 5.5 hrs (11 kW, 0–100%), 30 min (130 kW, 10–80%)
Insurance group: 27
Vehicle warranty: 3 years / 60,000 miles
Battery warranty: 8 years / 100,000 miles
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