Vauxhall's new Astra ECO 4 has managed almost 145mpg in a fuel economy run organised by its sister company Opel.

Starting from five different locations, 100 drivers in identical Astra ECO 4 hatchbacks covered distances of up to 237 miles in a major economy competition.

The Automobil Club von Deutschland, who organised the competition, was on hand to unseal the tanks and record the fuel used when the cars finished at the Opel headquarters in Rsselsheim, near Frankfurt.

The winner, Beate Herzog, achieved an amazing 144.6mpg. The top five drivers recorded results of better than 76mpg. Average consumption of all 100 participants was 72.4mpg.

The £13,095 Astra ECO 4 is a five-seater hatchback with a comprehensive safety package - including front and side airbags, anti-lock brakes and Vauxhall's patented pedal release system.

Vauxhall's existing 75 horsepower1.7 DTi 16-valve engine is used in combination with modified gearing, to reduce engine speeds without sacrificing pulling power. The car-maker says emissions are also significantly reduced.

A number of aerodynamic modifications have also been incorporated - an undertray to assist air-flow on the underside of the car and rear spoiler are fitted, while special low rolling resistance tyres are used.

Standard equipment also includes air-conditioning, twin airbags, power steering, adjustable steering column, remote-control central locking, driver's seat height adjustment, radio/CD audio, electric windows and wheel covers.