Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004 - 2010) 1.6i 16V Active 5d (2006/06) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Not sure really, blends in with the crowd a bit but still a handsome car I think!

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

They like it, a smoother drive than my sister's Mk4 Astra. Everyone generally impressed I think.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yeah, but if you are thinking of getting one it's worth getting one with the little touches like leather steering wheel, trip computer, electric windows and mirrors and alloys like an Active or Design or SXI. I borrowed an Astra Life while mine was in the garage and it was very basic and not the pleasant experience that mine seems to be.

What are you likely to buy next?

I've always like Vauxhalls and always find my self straying back. Had a few manufacturer's cars and there are a couple of rules. You can normally trust German, Japanese, Ford and Vauxhall are pretty solid too.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£6,000

When did you buy the car?

July 2009

Did you get a good deal and why?

12 month Network Q warranty is excellent. Got very fair trade in values and £200 off the price ticket.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Baby on the way, had to be a car we both liked, went from 2 cars to 1.

What was the dealer like?

Grasmere Vauxhall in Crewe. Andy was very helpful and sorted out the part exchange without fuss. Left us to make our own minds up, not a typical smarmy car salesman.

What's it like to drive?

Quite sharp handling, mine is the 1.6 Twinport so the engine feels willing and smooth. Adds torque at low revs and saves fuel, I quite easily get 42mpg on a combined cycle. Mine unfortunately does not have rake adjustment on the steering whhel, being quite tall this would have been nice. Apart from that a comfortable driving position, firm yet supportive seats.

What's it like to park?

The rear quarter windows extend quite far back, reverse parking is a doddle. Neat front end means easy forwards parking.

Have you had any problems with the car?

As I've seen reported elsewhere a bit of clutch judder when moving off from cold. Vauxhall have had it straight back without fuss to fit an upgraded clutch.

What's most practical about your car?

5 doors and still looks well styled. Not a bad boot size considering the unusual shape of the rear end. I'm 6'3" and I'm still comfy in the back behind the drivers seat.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Trip computer is pretty good, nice steering wheel controls for the computer and stereo. One touch indicator stalks are nice, I don't understand why people on here moan about them, you get used to them really quickly!