Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.6i 16V Club 5d (2001/Y) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Its a great first car - handed it down to my wife after the cambelt snapped in her old Clio and she loves it. (she hates my bigger car and refuses to drive it!).

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

Not much - its a very 'average' car.

Would you buy this car again and why?

It was my first car and for that it was excellent. Would I buy another? No. Nothing at all wrong with it but it just doesnt really excite you to drive it.

What are you likely to buy next?

Mercedes C Class or BMW 3 series.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,000

When did you buy the car?

May 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

Thought so at the time as it came with a 3 year warranty (which is next to useless TBH as a million hoops to jump through if you try and claim on it).

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Low mileage and cheap to insure. Ideal first car.

What was the dealer like?

Small independent dealer in Yate.

What's it like to drive?

Quite nippy and ok on the motorway but less so than say a Ford Focus... but much cheaper to insure.

What's it like to park?

Easy as pie.

Have you had any problems with the car?

EGR valve issue (known problem) which I had blanked off. Replaced the coil pack as well.

What's most practical about your car?

Does near 40mpg which is quite impressive for a car of this age.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

With back seats down its surprisingly big for trips to Ikea!