Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch (2005 - 2010) 1.6i 16V SXi (115bhp) 3d (2007/07) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Its very me, quite sporty looking and despite being a fairly common model it still stands out .

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

All love it, its a good looking car, mines red so very popular. They all comment on how sporty and modern it looks.

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes, love the sporty look of it, maybe buy a bigger engine to get more out of it. Its a really nice car to own.

What are you likely to buy next?

Not sure, only just got this and enjoying it.

Type of dealer you bought from?

Independent

Did you buy this car new?

No

What price did you pay?

£3,500

When did you buy the car?

May 2013

Did you get a good deal and why?

Fairly good, due to an error on another car I got £1000 of the advertised price. Came with only 3 months warranty though.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

What was the dealer like?

Not too bad but wanted to sort something out because of the earlier error.

What's it like to drive?

For a firm suspension its actually quite comfortable and the engine is fairly quiet. Handles country roads in North Norfolk very well and quite good acceleration for a 1.6. I owned a Y reg Fiesta before this so its always going to be an improvement but ride position is very good, I really enjoy driving it and love to go on road trips.

What's it like to park?

Obviously no where near as easy as the Fiesta was, could fit that into tiny spaces. Rear window is compact so its quite difficult to see when reversing. I did have the other car for 7 years so maybe I just need to get used to it, only had it 5 months.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Its a 6 year old car with 85k on the clock so it was a but of a risk but all problems sorted under Warranty. A couple of minor things, Air Con needed a new compressor, had a misfire and need a new Coil rail, something I've heard happen on a few Astras. Also had a strange problem with the fuel gauge not recognising fuel when added if under half full and car sometimes had no power when starting despite accelerator being flat to floor, this seemed to be rectified by resetting the ECU. Had original battery in too which needed replacing but just general wear and tear.

What's most practical about your car?

Fairly good fuel economy, nice to drive, boot can be a bit awkward to load, but seats fold down flat.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Fairly basic or standard trim/accessories on this model so really favourite gadget is the air con.