Vauxhall Astra SXi 2004 review
Entry-level models are too often viewed as the poor relation in a car's range.
This is proof that entry-level motoring needn't be a huge compromise. The Astra's 1.4-litre engine isn't a sparkling performer, but it sips fuel and is very tax efficient for company users. The lower-specification trims provide good value, too. However, we'd still suggest checking your local Ford dealer's offers on the excellent, but soon-to-be-replaced, Focus.
Entry-level models are too often viewed as the poor relation in a car's range. Usually lacking in equipment and short of power, but frugal, they are frequently included in the brochure simply to give an attractive starting price in advertising. Could Vauxhall change this perception with its all-new base Astra 1.4?
There are four levels of trim, which range in price from £10,995 for the Expression to £13,995 for the SXi driven here. Although far from cheap, the top SXi does offer plenty of standard kit, including 16-inch alloys, firmer suspension, air-conditioning, sports seats and a good audio system.
And no matter what you spend on a new Astra, safety is never compromised, as all cars come with ABS and a full set of airbags, including side curtains for rollover protection.
This model may look the part with its sports styling and high specification, but it still has to perform on the road. The 16-valve engine is certainly frugal, with fuel economy of nearly 45mpg, achieved thanks to Vauxhall's innovative Twinport variable intake system.
The CO2 emissions are also at a healthy low of 151g/km, placing it in the same taxation bracket as the Agila city car and below any Astra rival. But the trade-off is that this machine could never be called fast. In order to realise its full potential, you really need to be snappy with the five-speed gearbox and use all the revs available. It's hard work to get anywhere near the quoted 0-60mph time of 12.7 seconds.
The engine pulls smoothly enough, though, and is refined at anything other than maximum revs, so at a steady motorway cruise the Astra suffers very little wind, road or engine noise.
In fact, as long as you don't want to go too fast, the newcomer provides a surprisingly fun driving experience. The steering is well weighted, direct and offers reasonable feedback, while the sports suspension and those alloy wheels cope well with all that British roads have to throw at it.
Meanwhile, the ride is firm but comfortable, absorbing even the worst potholes without ever being harsh. Body roll is kept to a minimum, too, and with such a fine suspension set-up and wide tyres, there is plenty of grip.
Yet the Astra's main attraction will be its keen price and low running costs, especially if you choose a modest trim grade and are a company car driver. You'll get a model that costs as little to own as a supermini, but has the space and refinement of a larger machine - and that's a fine base to start on.
