ASTRA uses an electro-hydraulic power steering system. While conventional power steering systems permanently divert power from the engine, the electro-hydraulic system works according to input from the driver. When the steering wheel is turned, a maintenance-free electric motor rotating at a standby speed of 2300rpm is actuated to a working speed of 3300rpm to power the hydraulic steering pump and deliver fluid to a rack and pinion steering gear. The steering wheel, which adjusts for both reach and height, requires 3.1 turns from lock to lock. The turning circle is a tidy 10.3 metres.