Other Vauxhall Astra (2004 - 2010) models:

  • Summary

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What does this car say about you?

    It's relatively sporty appearance as standard suggests fun and energetic, but not over the top or too youthful.

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

    Never had any negative comments, has been credited for its comfort both front and back.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    No but only because I try not to have the same car twice.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    A VXR of some sort hopefully.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Independent

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £4,000

    When did you buy the car?

    June 2013

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    The price was a few hundred pounds less than the average prices quoted elsewhere, as well as only having to travel a few miles to get it.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    Wanted a better all round car from my first car which was a 2003 Corsa 1.0L.

    What was the dealer like?

    Good, answered any questions I had well and gave me plenty of time to look at the car uninterrupted.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's surprisingly torque heavy and therefore has no problem picking up and maintaining speed, nor does it need to change down for hills. Rides well although does occasionally make moderate bumps rather painful.

    What's it like to park?

    Given its moderate size it's good, only thing worth mentioning is the rather small rear window and the pillars can obstruct the view somewhat.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    As 90,000 miles went by I had the cam-belt replaced more out of precaution than necessity. The left headlight had a documented history of faults and became faulty not long after buying the car. It was replaced and has been fine since. Nothing else has gone wrong.

    What's most practical about your car?

    Surprisingly large boot space.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    The stereo it comes with as standard is very good, although the age of the car means I needed to replace the head unit with an AUX port and Bluetooth. Speakers have always been great and deliver sound really well around the cabin.