Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004 - 2010) 2.0T 16V SRi (200ps) 5d (Exterior Pack) (2005/05) 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?
Less is more. Looks like a 1.8 SRi XP except for the small red Turbo badge on the boot
What do your friends / family / neighbours think of the car?
Unusually smart for an Astra. Most comments are about the colour, the leather seats and the 18" wheels. Not that rare really but the only one in my area
Would you buy this car again and why?
Not this particular one because it has now been superseded by a 1.6 turbo. Would buy another model of 5 door Astra though without hesitation. Ticks all the boxes.
What are you likely to buy next?
Ideally a Focus ST....but that fuel consumption is stuff of nightmares so depends what takes my fancy in a couple of years. Probably law by then that we must all drive dull 1.3 eco friendly diesels.
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Buying experience
Type of dealer you bought from?
Independent
Did you buy this car new?
No
What price did you pay?
£9,995
When did you buy the car?
October 2007
Did you get a good deal and why?
Not bad. All alloy wheels refurb'd to a high standard prior to delivery but no movement on price despite having no p/ex
Is there any special reason why you bought this car?
Wanted to improve on previously owned Astra 2.2 SRi
What was the dealer like?
Good. Price was about right for the dealer set-up and there was no sales pressure at all.
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Driving it
What's it like to drive?
Superb with effortless performance in all gears and no turbo lag; grips the roads like a limpit with very little torque steer even under hard acceleration; direct and positively weighted steering; powerful brakes; firm but not crashy ride; slightly clunky gearchange but good 6th ratio for motorways
What's it like to park?
A doddle. All corners easily visible and has a decent turning lock with light steering. Maybe the rear window is a bit small but that's being picky.
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Living with it
Have you had any problems with the car?
Occasional warning light flash but this is apparently a known minor software glitch that I ignore. Apart from that it is faultless
What's most practical about your car?
Light and easy to use controls, decent interior space and compact exterior, multi adjustable front seats, good sized boot
Favourite gadget, option or accessory?
The optional leather heated seats.
