Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (04-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 28 August 2009
The Vauxhall Astra is a good all-rounder that's sharply styled and easy to live with. It's not the most exciting or involving car to drive but it's safe and composed with good road manners while there's a wide range of strong diesel and petrol engines. The interior is well finished too with good quality materials but unfortunately the layout isn't particularly good with some of the buttons and controls in awkward places. The boot is cramped too - especially when compared to other hatchbacks. But with plenty on the used market and an abundance in car supermarkets, there's no need to pay over-the-odds for one.
3.5 out of 5

Other Vauxhall reviews

4 out of 5

Safety

The Astra received a top five-star Euro NCAP crash test rating, validating Vauxhall's claim that the car has a strong body structure. Every model comes with at least six airbags (more on some models - see equipment for details) and ABS. There's an immobiliser and remote central locking on all models while top cars have an alarm.

NCAP Test

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Provides motoring consumers with a realistic and independent assessment of the safety performance of some of the most popular cars sold in Europe.

Visit Euro NCAP for more info

  • Adult Occupant Rating

    5 out of 5

  • Child Protection Rating

    4 out of 5

  • Pedestrian Test Rating

    1 out of 5
3.5 out of 5

Reliability

A few minor problems are taking the shine off what is otherwise an excellent car and some owners have reported gearbox problems and electrical faults.

Car check problem points

Body

No problems reported.

Engine/Gearbox

Check for correct gearbox operation.

Other

A few electrical problems have been reported - check that everything works as it should.