Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (1998 - 2005) 1.8i 16V Elegance 5d (01) (2002/52) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
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Summary
What does this car say about you?
That I like no nonsense motoring and that I am not trying to keep up with the Joneses.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Not much altough some were quite surprised that I had bought a Vauxhall. Some who are interested in cars were quite impressed with the features and look of the alloys.
Would you buy this car again and why?
I would buy again though this time I might go for the SXI as I like a car with good handling.
What are you likely to buy next?
I would like the new shape Astra especially the VXR.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£5,200
When did you buy the car?
November 2005
Did you get a good deal and why?
The financing of the car was very very expensive from the dealer. I should have done more research on buying.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
A certain German car had let me down because of its weak gearbox (Its not a Merc, BMW or Audi) So I bought this car out of anger. This time I was surprised, and very impressed.
What was the dealer like?
They were friendly, they didnt put pressure on you so you felt free to take your time and choose carefully. The staff at Phoenix Vauxhall were helpfull when it came to servicing.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
This car has surprised me a lot as I wasnt expecting much. It pulls very well in every gear. Its a great long distance cruiser on the motorway and very economical.
What's it like to park?
Because I have factory alloy wheels which are very prone to scraping, I tend to have a mission to park the car. Visibilty in the back could be better no thanks to the rear headrests.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Surprisingly for a vauxhall nothing has gone wrong. I just made sure I kept to the servicing and general maintenance.
What's most practical about your car?
The boot space is not bad although more thought could of gone into more cubby holes cup holders etc
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The climate control which is rare on an astra is a blessing! Its very powerful on defrosting the windows during the winter months that it makes the de icer totally useless. The trip computer with the fuel range display is useful as feel more encouraged to drive economically.
