Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004 - 2010) 1.6T 16V SRi 5d (2007/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

That I'm maybe a bit more of a mature driver, but I still want something good-looking and fun to drive.

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

They think it looks great and it's well-equipped. After the problems I've had with mine though I'm not sure they'd buy Vauxhall!

Would you buy this car again and why?

No. Partly because I wouldn't have the same car twice, but also because of the experience I've had with this one.

What are you likely to buy next?

Hard to say, maybe a BMW 3-Series or a Focus ST.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£5,300

When did you buy the car?

May 2014

Did you get a good deal and why?

I thought the car was reasonably priced, and the guy gave me a good deal on my Fiesta as a p/x.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

For the condition and spec, I thought it was a good deal. I've always liked how the 3-door Astra's looked.

What was the dealer like?

Nice guy, like any other independent dealer I suppose.

What's it like to drive?

Very well. Next to the looks it's the best thing about the car. The 1.6T engine means it really shifts, particularly in 3rd gear and overtaking is pretty easy as a result. There's loads of grip when the roads get twisty and if you engage sport mode it becomes even better to drive. It's good on the motorway too, helped by the 6th gear.

What's it like to park?

It has mirrors and a steering wheel so it's fine. That said, the 17" wheels make the turning circle a bit poor and because of the small back window on the 3-door, rear visibility isn't the best.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes! I've owned the car 6 months and in that time I've had the gearbox bearings replaced, a coolant leak and a terrible knocking from the front suspension that is as yet unfixed. Not that the garage hasn't tried, I've had strut top mounts and D-bushes replaced but this still hasn't solved the problem. Now thinking it's a worn strut but no-one can tell me for sure. The gearbox bearings are apparently a common fault with the 1.6T and 1.9 diesel SRi models. The standard bearings can't handle the extra power and torque so they wear out quicker (in my case after 40,000 miles). Check all gears for whining noises when test driving! It cost me £600 to have the bearings replaced.

What's most practical about your car?

It has a good sized boot and the back seats seem to accommodate 2 adults quite comfortably. Took 4 of us on a 300-mile round trip and no-one complained about a lack of space or sore legs!

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

The heated leather seats are rather pleasant, and I like putting the car in sport mode down a twisty B-road.