Here is proof GM are working on a successor for its successful Vauxhall Astra with the spotting of this prototype by our spies whilst testing near the Nurburgring in Germany.

The chessboard disguise this prototype is wearing cleverly hides styling details from the naked eyes, but what we can see glimpses of the overall shape of the vehicle with it's new front fascia and the huge rear bumper.

The model pictured is the five-door version which is still nearly a year away from being unveiled with the 2009 Geneva Motor Show a likely destination, but we should also see  the three-door (GTC), estate and convertible(twin top) variants  to complete the range.

Power is expected to be similar to the current generation ranging from 75hp up to 240hp for the petrol engines and from 90hp up to 150hp for the diesel engines. However there is the possibility of greener engines be added following the Astra's introduction.