Vauxhall Astra Sport Hatch (2005 - 2010) 1.9 16V CDTi SRi (150ps) 3d (Exterior Pack) (2010/59) Owner Review

What does this car say about you?

I dread to think - I'm ashamed to be associated with it. If it were a person it would probably say I verbally and physically abuse it (think John Cleese in Fawlty Towers - "I've laid it on the line for you...").

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

They're probably sick of me saying how much I loathe it. Although now they've all been in it they can at least appreciate why I feel this way.

Would you buy this car again and why?

No! It's been the worst 20 months (and will be 36 months once the lease is up) of my 17 years driving cars. It is boring and soul-less. It does nothing extraordinary or well for that matter. It's 'just a car'.

What are you likely to buy next?

Going back to an Impreza. Had 2 over 10 years and they are in a totally different league. Don't think I'm talking about performance here because that's a given - I am talking about engineering, ergonomics and design too. The seats were comfier, the ride was more controlled, progress was effortless, there was somewhere other than a cup holder to store your mobile phone, the door pockets accept 500ml bottles. You get the point....

Type of dealer you bought from?

Franchise

Did you buy this car new?

Yes

What price did you pay?

£21,000

When did you buy the car?

January 2011

Did you get a good deal and why?

Lease car so don't know.

Is there any special reason why you bought this car?

Lease car - that was roughly the price though

What was the dealer like?

They were like a dealer. Over-Promised and Under-Delivered.

What's it like to drive?

Slow, gutless and noisy (both diesel engine-wise and road/wind-wise). Every journey is spiritless and boring. If you want to have a fun drive, even occassionally, look elsewhere.

What's it like to park?

Rubbish. Complete lack of visibility for reverse or bay parking. Sensors should be a standard option with a postage-stamp sized rear window like that.

Have you had any problems with the car?

Gearbox dropped into reverse when selecting first. Fixed on warranty by realigning the gear linkages although now the gearbox isn't as smooth as it was or should be.

What's most practical about your car?

It can get me to places, albeit in a boring, uneventful, spiritless way.

Favourite gadget, option or accessory?

Favourite Option: it's a lease car and it goes back in 2013 so I can buy a proper car. Favourite Gadget: The door handles - they let me get out and away from the car. Favourite Accessory: The door retaining arms aren't strong enough to hold the doors open so they bounce back at you - keeps my reflexes sharp!