Vauxhall Astra Coupe (2000 - 2004) 2.2i 16V SE2 2d (2002/02) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

erm... That I couldn't afford an M3? No seriously, I guess it says that I see the logic in buying a vauxhall for its cheap parts and servicing etc, but deep down there's a flash sod trying to get out so a standard Astra just wouldn't do!

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

Well nobodies said anything bad!

Would you buy this car again and why?

If I was being sensible then yes I probably would, but I'm not and I get bored of cars quickly, so no.

What are you likely to buy next?

I change my mind about this more than I change my socks. Current favourites are Focus ST, BMW 3 series, or to beat the taxman - an old Supra!

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,000

When did you buy the car?

April 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

As with all cars, you've only got yourself to blame if you got a bad deal (besides, have you ever met anybody who thinks they got ripped off?)

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Best all round choice for performance, economy, insurance and styling I could find at the time, the SE2 looks especially good with its Irmscher spoiler and 17" wheels

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

Generally really good, though I think a lower seat position (such as in the Celica) would give a sportier feel. Can get a little skittish in the wet but traction control and ABS ensure you don't loose your nerve. As mentioned in other reviews here suspension is VERY firm, bumps and pot holes are magnified especially through the low profile tyres fitted on the 17's.

What's it like to park?

Not as bad as you may have been led to believe, If you've got a spoiler you know exactly where the back of the car is, though due to the height of the coupes rear end reversing up to another cars bonnet can involve a bit of guesswork. I've found rear visibility is better than you get in the new Astra sport hatch.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Alternator, replacements are expensive on the 2.2's. Other than that just general wear and tear.

What's most practical about your car?

You can get two adults in the back (only two seat belts are fitted in the rear so getting three in isn't an option). beside's that it's completely impractical, the boot is large but rear seats won't fold down. In practice you would have more luck getting large items in a small city car! The pillarless doors look good but they're heavy than baby elephants.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Decent alarm brings peace of mind, trip computer is good for seeing miles per gallon, etc.