Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch (2005 - 2010) 1.9 16V CDTi SRi (150ps) 3d (Exterior Pack) (2008/57) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

Now days, probably that I am trying to hard to stay young with its boy-racer image.

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

Brother thinks it is brilliant, especially for the punchy drive. Sister says it is uncomfortable because of the firm suspension. Parents don't like the three door configuration. Partner thinks it's a good compromise but would rather have a Mercedes CLS Shooting brake!

Would you buy this car again and why?

Yes. It has served me well, especially when a racked up 35 000 miles one year.

What are you likely to buy next?

Jaguar XF (although second hand).

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchised

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£12,000

When did you buy the car?

December 2007

Did you get a good deal and why?

I thought it was a pretty average deal although he tried to make me feel like I had just been given a million pounds.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

I bought that car as I needed to replace my old one which was spending too much time with the mechanic.

What was the dealer like?

Very enthusiastic to sell and not so enthusiastic to sort out the little niggles after selling.

What's it like to drive?

Fantastic. Nicely able to mix average driving with a sporty punchy ride when called on to deliver. Some consider it a bit too firm but that's because they are passengers and it is obviously a sporty car.

What's it like to park?

Have the rear parking sensors which makes parking a doodle.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Had the final stainless steel tailpipe replace by Vauxhall after about a year as it started to rattle. The front right bearings went and needed the whole setup replaced after three years. The break discs have been replaced and then eventually skimmed more recently (five years) to get rid of vibrations on breaking.

What's most practical about your car?

The reasonable economy I can get from it.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

I love the bluetooth connection to my mobile phone. Will never buy a car without that again. And rear parking sensors. Life can't get much easier!