Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2009 - 2015) 1.7 CDTi 16V SRi 5d (2010/10) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Can't afford a bmw.

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

They think it looks smart with the 19 wheels and led headlights, most prob wonder why bought it over a better handling focus or didn't pay more for a 1 series.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Have moved onto a Gtc so wouldn't buy one of these again. Would look to buy a premium car next time.

What are you likely to buy next?

Audi A5 or f-pace.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£8,000

When did you buy the car?

December 2012

Did you get a good deal and why?

Seemed a good deal, the car was a good price and came with lots of optional extras fitted, so was more like a car was a premium brand.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Wanted a focus but for the same money you got the old focus model not the new one, but this was the new Astra so was better than the equivalent focus.

What was the dealer like?

Terrible. It was a national very well known dealer, after 1 week realised the car hadn't been serviced as advertised as part of the deal. The garage at first were not keen to do it and had to threaten to use the 28 day no questions return policy. The windscreen wipers also didn't work properly which they replaced reluctantly. So much for the 100 point plus checks they advertise. Also complete liars, the service vehicle message does not mean that it means ecu fault code. Was lied to my face that it must not have been reset during service properly.

What's it like to drive?

Don't be fooled by the 1.7 higher tune, it's not fast but is ok if you don't really care about over taking. Comfy on the motorway but mpg is no where near claimed. I get 39 on the combined.

What's it like to park?

Easy it's a small car.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Yes. Constant problems. The sound of the service vehicle soon bong every time engine started. Too many faults to list in full, sample- dpf probs, headlights unlevelling (wtf!) exhaust re circulation fail, uneven brake wear, ecu faults, squeaky snap noise from drivers door, rattle from exhaust, breathing on the black paint causes scratches, all dash and interior lights occasionally fail, inconsistent acceleration.

What's most practical about your car?

Plenty of space for a small car and the flex boot system is worth having.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Adaptive Xeon headlights and turn lights below fogs are amazing and worth paying extra for. The upgraded led daytime running lights in bright white make the car look much better. Not seen many others with this upgrade but brilliant.