Vauxhall Astra VXR (05-10) - Review

Review by David Ross on
Last Updated: 28 August 2009
This is the high performance version of the Astra - a car that competes alongside the likes of the Ford Focus ST and venerable Volkswagen Golf GTI. It certainly has the right performance credentials thanks to a turbocharged 2.0-litre engine that produces 240bhp. The styling is suitably hot hatch-esque too with a bulging bodykit, a central exhaust and large alloy wheels. But while it looks good, the VXR isn't that enjoyable to drive. The ride is simply too firm, the power delivery is anything but smooth and the steering lacks feel. While it is undoubtedly hard-edged, other hot hatches offer more enjoyment and refinement.
3 out of 5

Other Vauxhall reviews

3 out of 5

Running costs

Like most performance hatchbacks, the VXR isn't a cheap car to run. Claimed average fuel economy is 31mpg but you'll rarely see this in everyday driving and it will get through plenty of front tyres, which aren't cheap. On the plus side, insurance is group 17 - the same as the Focus ST and Mazda3 MPS - and the body has been designed to be easier to repair after minor accidents. It also uses the same 20,000 mile minor, 40,000 mile major servicing requirements as all Astras.

Summary Running Costs

Servicing period

20,000 miles.

Warranty

Three year/60,000 miles.

Road tax (12 months)

£270.00 - £270.00

Vehicle excise duty (VED) varies according to the CO2 emissions and the fuel type of the vehicle. For cars registered after March 1st 2001 VED or road tax is based on the car's CO2 emissions. For cars registered before March 1st 2001 it is based on engine size.

Full running costs data

2.5 out of 5

Green credentials

  • A
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    221
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CO2 emission figure (g/km)

Fuel economy rating

The arrows indicate the best and worst CO2 bands for this model.

Emissions summary

The VXR is a polluting model - although it's about average when judged by hot hatch standards. The 2.0-litre engine emits 211g/km of CO2 while average fuel economy is 30mpg.

Find the exact engine and CO2