Vauxhall Astra Coupe 2000-
  • Economy

    Value

    5 out of 5 5.0

    If it's performance you are after, then this proves very good value.

  • On the road

    Driving

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Very good, but as with all front wheel drives, it does have its limits. Has the 215/40/ZR17 tyres and electronic gizmos, though, to keep you in one piece if you get stupid. Lotus tuned suspension.

    Performance

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Dunno why Parkers gave it 4*s? There ain't no faster car for the money if 152mph ain't 5*s, what is? An Imprezza runs out of puff at 138mph.

  • Living with it

    Reliability

    3 out of 5 3.0

    Vauxhall. It does have faults - it's not german, but essentialy all cheap and easy to fix.

    Image

    3 out of 5 3.0

    3*s, I agree. You are not buying a lifestyle. You are buying understated performance, and the ability to upset a lot of supposed performance cars.

    Comfort

    2 out of 5 2.0

    It's got all the luxuries (multi disc / air con / cruise control / alloys / electrics etc), but sports suspension does not equal a comfy ride.

  • Security and Service

    Security

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Central locking, alarm, immobiliser and locking wheels. It's got all the bits; ABS, traction control and ESP.

    Service

    2 out of 5 2.0

    Disappointed with the buying process, and staff do not seem to be on the ball.

  • Problems and Ownership

    Problems

    Engine

    Other

    Windows don't always work smoothly, trip computer switchgear broke and multi-CD plays up.

    Ownership

    Did you buy the car new?

    New

    Would you buy the same model again?

    No

    Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?

    Yes