Vauxhall Astra Estate (2004 - 2010) 1.8i VVT Design 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Practicality required.

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

Family like it much better than the previous generation 1.4 estate.

Would you buy this car again and why?

I would buy it again, especially with the 1.8 VVT engine, because it satisfies the requirements for a load carrier at a reasonable price. It is much cheaper than a comparable VW Golf Estate.

What are you likely to buy next?

I am hoping the requirement for room will disappear in due course. Might then downsize to a small city car.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Didn't buy from a dealer

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,200

When did you buy the car?

May 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

Owner had bought his next car and the insurance was running out.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

It is one of the smallest vehicles into which one can fit my son's full-sized double-bass. In a word it is "roomy".

What was the dealer like?

What's it like to drive?

The 1.8 VVT engine delivers plenty of performance, certainly in another league to the 1.4 petrol I had previously. It is also reasonably economical. Handling is fine unless pushed hard - when it tends to wallow a bit.

What's it like to park?

Parking sensors help, but it is pretty easy in any case.

Have you had any problems with the car?

The car needed some new brakes on purchase, but has recently sailed through the MOT.

What's most practical about your car?

The versatility of the estate configuration, without any undue noise.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Faux-leather seats and piano black dash look good and the parking sensors which I have fitted myself are useful.