Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2009 - 2015) 1.6i 16V Exclusiv 5d Auto (2010/10) 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?
Smoothy rather than boy racer. Climate control, CD jukebox and DAB radio are classy.
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Friends have liked the comfort and commented how well laid out the dash is. No problems for those travelling in the back seat. Plenty of luggage space in the boot area.
Would you buy this car again and why?
Yes, would certainly consider, but would like a 1.4T auto option like on the GTC, giving fast acceleration with ordinary unleaded petrol. Reliable mechanically (I've found Astras to be very good over the years if regularly serviced)..
What are you likely to buy next?
No set plans, but it would be an automatic.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Franchised
Did you buy this car new?
Yes
What price did you pay?
£0
When did you buy the car?
June 2010
Did you get a good deal and why?
Yes. Negotiated well, quoting a competing special offer.
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Attracted by its ability to give a smooth ride over potholes and increasingly poor road conditions.
What was the dealer like?
Quite reasonable. I actually did 3 test drives with different dealers, two with my other half who likes her comforts and was a key purchase influencer.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Smooth and composed. Nippy and responsive engine at 30-60 (most of my driving is urban or on A roads. Very smooth auto box. Acceleration is 12.5s for 0-62, only average. I miss the extra oomph in accelerating of my previous 1.8 auto, but if I'm driving on motorways or fast roads, I just use V-power petrol which gives it more spark. Have rarely needed to floor it, gentle pumping the pedal suffices.
What's it like to park?
Visibility no better nor worse than other cars. You don't need to buy the sensors, just take it slowly and adjust the electric mirror downwards. Helps judge kerb distance accurately.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Warning light came on Aug 2014, but no driving problems. Thermostat found to be faulty but replaced free under extended warranty.
What's most practical about your car?
Legroom.
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
Particularly like the CD jukebox (6 CDs) and the twin climate controls (driver and passenger).
