Vauxhall Astra

By Dan Strong

October 2009

• Rating:
• Latest deal price: from £12,718 to £18,306

Meet the car that Vauxhall says has the quality to rival luxury machines built by the likes of BMW and Mercedes… This is the all-new Astra, unleashed in the UK this week.

After our world first drive of the Opel-badged Astra, Auto Express has been putting 1.6 petrol turbo and 1.7-litre CDTI diesel models through their paces in an exclusive test on British roads.

Video: watch CarBuyer's video review of the Vauxhall Astra

The longer wheelbase and wider track really help to boost the Astra’s road presence, particularly from the rear. The well proportioned cabin impresses, too, although there are minor niggles. While we like the layout of the raked dashboard, it’s arranged at such an angle that the gearlever is mounted too far back.

The optional sat-nav also proved confusing to use, and its LCD screen is small. However, the car is well equipped, with options including a slide-out cycle rack – similar to that on the Corsa supermini – and an MP3 stereo system.

We tried the 180bhp petrol model first, and when you fire up the engine, it’s impressively refined. The unit idles smoothly and quietly, yet is eager to rev. The diesel is every bit as quiet, and although it’s slower to respond to throttle inputs, it never feels short on urge.

Pull away from the line, and the turbocharged petrol car quickly shows its performance credentials. When mated to a six-speed manual gearbox, the powerplant propels the Astra from 0-60mph in 7.9 seconds and on to a 138mph top speed. The 110bhp diesel is slower, completing the benchmark dash in 11.8 seconds.

The star attraction is the Astra’s ride quality. This car’s suspension settings have been developed by Vauxhall engineers exclusively for UK drivers, and their expertise shines through.

Some rivals provide greater steering feel, but the Astra’s blend of comfort and handling agility will take some beating in this ultra-competitive class.

Rival: Mazda 3
Bosses insisted on a weightsaving design philosophy, so the Mazda is efficiently engineered as well as great to drive. While the cabin isn’t as plush as some rivals, it’s very solid. Diesel cars offer low running costs, too.

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