Vauxhall Astra Coupe (2000 - 2004) 2.2i 16v Bertone 2d (2001/Y) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Likes stylish, big, fast cars, but is sensible too.

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

They like the car's looks, surprised it is based on the standard Astra.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would consider the 2.0 Turbo next (insurance costs willing when I'm older!) if anything - but for means of variety, I would probably go for a different car altogether. Considering the car on the whole, and my age, the 1.8 may have been the cheaper option! Insurance costs for the 2.2 are not terrible for most, but not great for my current status. So will probably only keep a car like this for a while..

What are you likely to buy next?

Maybe the Turbo version of the Astra Coupe, or something German - Volkswagen Golf. Probably a GT TDI variant - big engine still, but economical, but it also being a smaller car than this current one too.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£0

When did you buy the car?

January 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

It was a decent deal, car was in good condition inside and out, and mileage was a bit lower than average for age.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I had seen one about before and liked the look of it. It said sleek, and stylish but at the same time it was a more mature alternative to many other fast 'boy racer' cars.

What was the dealer like?

Not a dealer, independent seller.

What's it like to drive?

Good fun. Quick enough at low speeds. Smooth, cruises nicely, pulls through gears well, and has great top end power in 5th for overtaking or general acceleration. Holds the road well, (but is slightly wavey when cornering at higher speeds).

What's it like to park?

Tricky due to the length of the car and rear visibility not being as good as it could be - but parking it is not terrible. You can work out the dimensions of the car etc reasonably enough, and so it is do-able, with only some fuss now and again depending on the space available!

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had a common Vauxhall fault occur quite soon after I bought it - which was the EGR vale going on me. Got this fixed for a reasonable expense. A few lights have started to appear on the dash now, and there's a rattle coming from somewhere - but other than that (touching wood) it appears fine and pretty solid.

What's most practical about your car?

The size (interior is very spacious for a coupe), ease of which to drive, fuel consumption not being highly ridiculous. Repair/Servicing costs being similar to that of a usual Astra, as well as compatability of parts.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Cruise Control is fun to play with occasionally or for long drives. A few interior touches - such as the CD storage unit - is both stylish and practical. Speed/Rev/Fuel dials add a nice touch at night.