Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2009 - 2015) 1.6i 16V Exclusiv 5d Auto (2011/11) 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?
It's an attractive enough car in higher spec trim, but this model and below look drab. It also shows that corners either don't scare you or you just don't take them on over 30 mph.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Passengers like being driven in it thanks to the smooth ride and spacious interior.
Would you buy this car again and why?
The hatch? No. The GTC? Definitely.
What are you likely to buy next?
Alfa Romeo Giulietta.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Didn't buy from a dealer
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
November 2011
Did you get a good deal and why?
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
What was the dealer like?
Car was a hire car. The hire company were helpful enough, despite the car....
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Oh dear. On a motorway it drives fairly well, but getting up to speed was painful. This was partly due to the lethargic 1.6 petrol engine coupled up to the most confused auto box I've ever experienced. The amount of times it shot down to 3rd and 4000 plus revs whilst trying to cross the smallest times became exasperating. Take a corner too quickly and the rear end would threaten to give up. On the plus side it soaks up most bumps nicely. I recently test drove the Astra GTC and it was a completely different car, taking corners beautifully.
What's it like to park?
The slow to respond auto box made parallel parking a painful experience, but the steering and visibility were good enough.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
No faults noticed.
What's most practical about your car?
Good sized boot, plenty of head and leg room.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Steering mounted controls were well placed and intuitive, decent radio.
