Vauxhall Astra 2004-7
It is hard to find many faults with the Vauxhall Astra. A sensible choice for those who regard value; it's tough & the range offers various engines and trim levels. Whilst it may be apparent that there's little wrong with the Astra, it is always a wise move to extend your car warranty, as mechanichal breakdown repairs occurring outside of the standard warranty period could cost you a fortune. Styling
These newer versions of the Astra are noticeably more stylish than previous editions. It has a bit of the Megane/Focus feel & look to it. It definitely looks sporty & sleek, with elegant curves directing the eye to the light clusters unmistakable Vauxhall rear end.
Interior
The interior is well finished. The cabin materials are of a good quality, with soft-feel plastics in various places. The seat & steering wheel adjustments are easy to get exactly where you want them. But there does seem to be too many fiddly controls.
Comfort's also very reasonable. The outer body's rigidity is improved by 15 percent, hopefully resulting in fewer vibrations emerging into the cabin, as well as more ride comfort. The seats are large & widely adjustable. There is also ample rear passenger space & boot space. However, it's worth skipping the basic model, which doesn't include a CD player, for leather trim & climate control.
Engine
The engines run from 90bhp to 240bhp. The basic level 1.4-litre petrol motor & the 1.3 diesel can be slow, the 1.6 & 1.8-litre are a bit spicier. There are 3 turbocharged petrol 2.0-litre engines, 170bhp, 197bhp & 237bhp. For diesel buyers there are 4 choices, the mid-ranking 120bhp 1.9 CDTi is the best for performance & economy.
The range-topping VXR gives massive performance & undeniable dynamics.
Driving
Undoubtedly, this car is fun to drive. It is responsive & carries out every manoeuvre with ease. The steering is so light, you can use it with your fingertips. It takes corners with precision & goes over bumps without you feeling too much of them. It's also remarkably quiet. The Astra appears to be a competent all rounder but there is some wind noise from around the top of the A-pillars. All of the Astras have agile chassis, they have good body control & they do have a resistance to understeer. The 5th generation is much sharper than its predecessors. If you choose the SRI, it comes with 'SportSwitch,' which firms the suspension even further, it also weights up & quickens the steering, increasing its response. Its gearshifts are reasonable, but not as good as the manual. There is five-speed on most models, six-speed in the 2.0 Turbo (168 bhp) & 1.9 (148 bhp) diesel versions.
Models
Desirable features like big alloy wheels, air conditioning, digital radio and MP3-compatible CD players are available across the range. As of yet there are no EuroNCAP independent crash tests, but it's sure to get a good rating.
All models get twin front & side airbags & ABS. Curtain airbags are standard further up the range. Vauxhall says that the Astra has larger front & side airbags, along with improved head airbags on Club trim levels & upward. The Astra's hazard flashers activate automatically & the doors unlock when an airbag or seatbelt pretension is triggered. Some models benefit from stability control & is one the best systems on the market. Vauxhall also claims that the Astra has been constructed to reduce the cost of accident repairs, which in the long run could mean lower insurance premiums. Apart from the basic model, all other models have ABS, four airbags, electric front windows, remote central locking, CD player & a digital radio. Further up the range to the top-spec, curtain airbags, alloy wheels & an MP3-compatible CD player are available.
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The opinions expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily held by the Click4Group unless specifically stated. The material is for general information only. Always obtain independent, professional advice for your own particular situation.
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