Vauxhall Astra Hatchback 1.6i Club 5d (2001/51) Owner Review
Want to know everything there is to know about this car?
-
Economy
Value
Bought from a Vauxhall dealer when it was 18 months old for £7200 - residual values of the car are terrible, but there are so many of them on the road! Good value for those buying a car on a budget.
Costs
Very good so far - 1.6 8v unit is economial if driven sensibly - Fuel levels drop quite a bit if driven hard.
-
On the road
Driving
Much better than previous generation Astra - certainly superior to the old shape Vectra too. Ride is harsh on bumpy roads due to the stiff suspension setup. I'd say handling is slightly superior to a Mk1 Ford Modeo (I've owned two of those in the past).
Performance
Acceptable for the kind of engine it is. Not very fast, but quick enough to keep up with fast flowing traffic.
-
Living with it
Reliability
I have driven 10,000 miles in this car so far and it has been exceptionally reliable. Touchwood it will stay that way.
Image
It's not got the image of the Golf (or even the Focus) but it looks ok, best in silver. My vehicle has 15 inch Vauxhall alloys which improve its general appearance.
Comfort
Very comfortable in the front, but passenger comfort in the back is spoilt by the firm ride. Saying that though, it is quite roomy and the back seats can accomodate a tall person easily. Air con is useful in hot weather.
-
Security and Service
Security
Who the heck would want to break into one anyway? Immobiliser is standard, but alarm is an optional extra. Average.
Service
I've never taken it to Vauxhall - I get it serviced at a local independent garage - Service costs average approx £130, so it is quite reasonable.
-
Problems and Ownership
Problems
Engine
ECG valve was replaced under warranty, but the car has never broken down. The humble 8v unit does have a reputation for being quite strong.
Other
Ownership
Did you buy the car new?
Used
Would you buy the same model again?
Yes
Did you buy from the same manufacturer again?
Yes