Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004 - 2010) 1.6T 16V SRi 5d (2007/57) 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 don't want to compromise.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
They think it's okay and probably quite ordinary. I don't think they realise how quick it is!
Would you buy this car again and why?
Definitely, but it'd have to be at the right price. The depreciation on these from new is enormous, but bought nearly-new they represent real value.
What are you likely to buy next?
To be honest, I'm happy with this for now but I may well end up with the new Astra which is launching 2009/10.
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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?
£8,999
When did you buy the car?
June 2008
Did you get a good deal and why?
Think I got a cracking deal. The price paid was less than half the list price, and the car was only 10 months old so over 2 years manufacturer warranty left.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Drove a new shape Astra as a courtesy car when I owned an old shape Astra diesel. Liked the drive and wanted to move up to something with better performance.
What was the dealer like?
Car supermarket. No fuss and a straightforward deal, although the value for my trade-in was disappointing - £3700 for a low mileage diesel that was only just over 3 years old.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Brakes and throttle very sensitive so needs a light right foot on both counts! Takes a bit of getting used to at first. Fabulous acceleration in 2nd and 3rd gears, and handling inspires confidence as there is loads of grip and not much body roll.
What's it like to park?
Not bad at all. I try and avoid reverse parking when I can but it seems to find its way into spaces fairly easily when I need to.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No, apart from a failing oil seal that was picked up on a routine inspection. This was sorted under warranty.
What's most practical about your car?
It does pretty much everything you want it to do.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The turbo. Apart from the shove it provides, it makes a cool spitting hiss sound on upchange.
