The 2020 Vauxhall Astra 1.2 Turbo in Elite Nav trim is a compelling example of just how far mainstream hatchbacks have come. Refreshed with a sleeker front end and more efficient engines, this iteration of the Astra manages to blend sharp looks with everyday usability, without resorting to gimmicks. The 1.2-litre three-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine, producing 145bhp, is a standout in the range: peppy, refined, and remarkably eager across a broad rev range. It?s a car that rewards sensible driving, but won?t shy away from a brisk B-road blast. The six-speed manual gearbox is light and accurate, and there?s a pleasing responsiveness to the steering that makes the Astra feel composed and agile without being overtly sporty. Ride quality is impressive too, particularly on the smaller wheels fitted to this trim, absorbing bumps with a level of maturity that rivals some premium-badged alternatives. Inside, the Elite Nav trim brings an unexpected touch of class. You get leather seats, heated up front and in the rear, a heated steering wheel, dual-zone climate control, and a crisp 8-inch infotainment screen with sat-nav and smartphone integration. It feels solid, if not wildly imaginative, but everything works well and there?s space for a small family to live with it comfortably. While the Astra nameplate may not stir the soul, this version makes a strong case for the head. Efficient, well-equipped, and good to drive, the 1.2 Turbo Elite Nav feels like a hatchback that?s genuinely thought through, proof that the everyday car can still be a quietly impressive all-rounder.