Other Vauxhall Astra (2004 - 2010) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    Want something sporty without paying ridiculous amounts on fuel. Relaced a 2.0 Coupe and its much faster and cheaper to run.

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

    Like it, does look sporty with alloys spoiler and tinted lights as standard.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, still arent many diesels that give 50MPG and 60 in 8s while being fun to drive.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    Possibly a BMW 120D, only similar size car with a diesel thats any more efficient.

  • Buying experience

    5 out of 5 5.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £6,000

    When did you buy the car?

    November 2010

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Car was already underpriced, no idea why.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Cheap, good performance and economy.

    What was the dealer like?

    Helpful, not pushy at all, gave a long test drive and free tank of fuel.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    Very good. Plenty of power and torque, brilliant for overtaking, handing is also very good due to sports suspension and wide tyres. ESP cuts in a bit soon cornering hard however.

    What's it like to park?

    Not great, has a good steering lock but the rear window is small and high making parking a bit awkward.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    Yes, EGR valve and the alternator failed, apparently from other reviews these seem to go on every one eventually due to a design flaw.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Not particularly a car to buy for practicality, boot is suprisingly big however, any more than 2 in the back is a squeeze however. Mirrors are big but rear view isnt great,.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    There isnt a whole lot of gadgets or accessories on the SRI, big 18" alloys and tinted lights look good though.