Slotting in below the firm’s hot VXR variant, this latest addition to the Astra range boasts 197 horsepower and is the same unit that also powers Vauxhall’s premium drop-top, the Cascada.

On-paper performance figures promise a brisk driving experience, with the 1.6 turbo Astra GTC topping out at 143mph and capable of sprinting to 60mph in 7.3 seconds. Vauxhall is also wallet-friendly economy figures, with a claimed 13 percent improvement over the old motor meaning 51mpg an 154g/km CO2.

Priced from £20,995 on-the-road in GTC guise, the new engine option is available to order now with deliveries expected in the spring.

The arrival of this new engine also signals an update to the GTC’s top-spec entertainment and navigation option. For £855 buyers gain sat-nav, Bluetooth, voice control and MP3 player connectivity accessible through a seven-inch colour touchscreen.

Furthermore, mapping updates are available via the unit’s USB connection.