Other Vauxhall Astra (2004 - 2010) models:

  • Summary

    5 out of 5 5.0

    What does this car say about you?

    I got mine in black, so it apparently says that I'm a drug dealer.

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

    Love it.

    Would you buy this car again and why?

    Yes, but the VXR version.

    What are you likely to buy next?

    The 2013 Astra VXR.

  • Buying experience

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Type of dealer you bought from?

    Franchised

    Did you buy this car new?

    No

    What price did you pay?

    £6,000

    When did you buy the car?

    May 2015

    Did you get a good deal and why?

    Not tooo bad, 59k miles, 5 years old, basic SRi spec, but got cruise control fitted and floor mats, 12mth warranty, fresh MOT and Service all included in the price. From a Vauxhall Main Dealer too.

    Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

    My Corsa blew up.

    What was the dealer like?

    Welcoming and helpful surprisingly.

  • Driving it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    What's it like to drive?

    It's been brilliant for me, doesn't under steer at all, even in spirited driving, you do have to keep the revs above 3k though to really feel the power and to stay in the torque range, but it does sling you around corners and grips on well. It does the daily motorway commute as well no problem, but it does need a 6th gear like the diesels have. However, I did get put to shame by a 2015 Vauxhall Meriva the other day from 60mph+ .. The diesels in the new cars are pretty torquey so dont try racing one!

    What's it like to park?

    Not too bad, depends on the skill of the driver. Ive had no problems even though the rear window's small.

  • Living with it

    4 out of 5 4.0

    Have you had any problems with the car?

    EML Came on the weekend I purchased it, turned out to be a mis-fire in cylinder 2.. Changed the spark plugs as they were pretty far gone, light went away and it's been perfect since. Apart from a puncture, yeah them tyres aren't cheap (£100).

    What's most practical about your car?

    The power, the supportive seats as you corner hard, the boot and the space inside, fairly quiet too.

    Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

    Cruise control is a must on motorway missions, and the Sports button. The exterior pack (XP Pack) is a must for the sport hatch, really sets it apart from the normal Astras.