Vauxhall and Volvo have both introduced new entry-level models to make the Astra and EX30 more affordable.

Vauxhall’s new Astra Griffin, available in Hatch and Sports Tourer guises, is priced from £34,995, reducing the entry-point to the Astra Electric range by £2,800 while offering extra features over Design trim. The Sport Tourer – or estate – version is £37,195.

The Griffin features tinted rear windows and roof rails on the Sports Tourer. Inside, the driver and front passenger have heated seats and the steering wheel is also heated. The interior tech has been enhanced with wireless smartphone charging and a rear view camera.

Vauxhall is also offering a PCP finance deal which stretches the cost over five years and costs £399 per month with a £2,000 deposit. However, we’d advise looking at leasing deals too – currently an Astra Electric Ultimate is around half that cost. 

For Volvo, the new EX30 Core joins the Plus and Ultra grades in the line-up but is priced £945 below the previous cheapest model. It is available with two powertrains: the standard Single Motor, with a driving range of up to 209 miles, and Single Motor Extended Range, capable of up to 295 miles in the official tests. There is no twin motor option.

The equipment specification includes a rear parking camera and sensors, automatic LED headlights, and 18-inch alloy wheels. The 12.3-inch touchscreen system comes with Google built in.

On Single Motor Extended Range versions, the climate control system also uses an energy-saving heat pump.

On-the-road prices are £32,850 for the Single Motor version and £37,050 for the Single Motor Extended Range. All EX30s come with three years or 60,000 miles’ servicing plus wear and tear maintenance for items such as wiper blades and brake discs and pads.

The new EX30 Core is available to order now, with first customer deliveries expected in early 2025.