Vauxhall Astra Coupe (2000 - 2004) 2.0i 16v Turbo 2d (2004/53) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

It's a very attractive design, but it also makes you look a bit boy racer. Almost every other coupe I have seen has been modified with silly looking bumpers or scoops which totally ruin the sleek look of the original design.

What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?

Looks great and solidly built.

Would you buy this car again and why?

If I was after another performance bargain, then yes.

What are you likely to buy next?

An economical diesel car due to the milage I'm now doing. Possibly the new shape Astra hatch or a Citroen C4/Focus.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,500

When did you buy the car?

August 2006

Did you get a good deal and why?

Car supermarket was cheaper to buy from than from a private seller! Had to pay an extra £200 or you get no warrenty.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I had to get a newer car as a requirement of my works car allowance and this was great value for money on a car only 2.5 years old with this sort of performance.

What was the dealer like?

Didnt know much about the car and did not want to go for much of a test drive.

What's it like to drive?

The engine is powerful and responsive. It sometimes feels a bit scary going into a corner at speed because the handling is not as predictable as I would like. There is no body roll to speak of. Suspension is very firm. The pillers between the windscreen and side windows are large and I find when going around a corner I have to lean towards the passenger seat to get a good view of the road ahead. The seats are too hard. The lumber adustment just sticks what feels like an iron rod against your back. Normally get 35mpg easily without feeling that Im holding back

What's it like to park?

Ok as the rear spoiler make it easy to see where the rear of the car finishes

Have you had any problems with the car?

I've owned it for almost two years. It's now done 95K miles and had 73K when I bought it. No problems at all in that time.

What's most practical about your car?

Large boot.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Air con is the best, but the cruise control can also be quite nice to use on a long journey