Vauxhall Astra GSI 2002 review
Things might look rosy now, but wind the clock back and the current Astra and Zafira were still on the drawing board...
Vauxhall's return to form continues as the Astra GSi builds on the success of the turbocharged Zafira launched last year. It has excellent performance and good handling, but is more refined and luxurious than some hot hatch rivals. As a balance between usability and all-out thrills, it will take some beating.
Things might look rosy now, but wind the clock back five years and Vauxhall was in dire straits. The current Astra and Zafira were still on the drawing board and the Vectra was suffering at the hands of more accomplished rivals.
But in the past two years, Vauxhall has undergone a resurgence. Thanks to an influx of wings, wheels, bodykits and more dynamic motors, the Griffin is soaring once again. We've seen the Zafira GSi, plus turbo versions of the Astra in hatchback, coup� and convertible form. But here's the ultimate incarnation of Vauxhall vitality...
Enter the Astra GSi - latest addition to the company's performance portfolio and a cut-price alternative to the recently launched Ford Focus RS.
Developed at the Opel Performance Centre in Germany, the £16,495 GSi is exactly the same price as the car it replaces, the limited-edition Astra SRi Turbo. But engineers claim it is a more mature motor to drive, with reduced torque steer and a less brutal power delivery. The car looks meaner, too, with a big boot spoiler, identical alloy wheels to the Zafira GSi, larger air intakes and chromed tailpipes. It also sits 10mm nearer the ground, so the 17in alloys virtually fill the arches.
Inside, there are part-leather sports seats, white dials and a brushed aluminium gearknob, plus a comprehensive spec list that includes air-con, cruise control and a CD autochanger.
What's more, the GSi is £3,500 cheaper than a Focus RS, despite offering 197bhp and similar performance. But it isn't being marketed as a rival to the Ford - Vauxhall says it will be more refined and less challenging to drive.
The GSi still feels raw enough to satisfy performance fans, however. It is blisteringly quick, yet power delivery is smooth and there is no noticeable turbo lag. The suspension is firm, but not quite as hard as some hot hatchback rivals, making the Astra a comfortable companion on long-distance journeys, while the body feels taut and well balanced through corners. ESP comes as standard, but it can be switched off, while a surprisingly supple ride and quicker steering rack mean the car always seems controllable.
So despite the wild looks and thunderous performance, the GSi remains a finely tuned driver's car. Fast enough to thrill, yet mature enough to not feel tiring on a long journey, as a complete package it looks like excellent value.
