Faults:

Engine Management System failed, was replaced under warranty.

Headlamp bulbs would blow regularly.

General Comments:

On the plus side the Astra was very refined, much quieter and smoother than the Focus I replaced it with. It also looked quite a smart car from some angles & the handling was above average for a family hatch. Performance was average.

On the down side, the interior was incredibly dull, the windows would rattle when going over bumps, the reliability was questionable, and the less said about the dealers the better.

Overall, quite a forgettable car with no character. Wouldn't buy another one.

Faults:

Faulty EGR valve.

Paint chips quite easily.

Broken rear wiper arm, my fault.

General Comments:

I have been driving this car for the last 18 months or so and covered approx 16,000 miles. It's a pleasure to drive with firm handling and loads of grip from the 205/55/16 tyres. It's also quite quick for a 1.6.

The cabin has a nice feel, with white dials surrounded by chrome rings.

As mentioned, the EGR valve decided to pack up, apparently it's a common problem, and Vauxhall quoted £180 for a new one. I got a brand new one off eBay for £15 and fitted it myself in 20 minutes.

As for Vauxhall's servicing, when I first had the car I paid for a full service (£160) and they didn't even change the spark plugs!! So for servicing and spares, I would avoid them at all costs, that is unless you have deep pockets.

Overall I like the car, it has a sporty look, especially with the lowered sports suspension and 16" alloys. After I've locked it and walked away, I can't help, but take a quick look over my shoulder, which must be a good sign that the SXi is a car to be proud of.

Faults:

Well I've only had the car 2 days, so nothing so far.

General Comments:

I must say, I've been extremely impressed with this car. I wasnt expecting too much from the 1800 engine, but I have been mistaken - massively! The performance is superb. I'm not going to say it's like a Ferrari, because it's not, but for a factor which may put people off this car, you shouldn't let it. A strong performer.

As far as comfort goes, it has also impressed me. A long motorway drive to work is actually enjoyable, made even more delightful by its features such as air con.

I can't really comment on the economy side of things, but so far so good.

The interior is very modern, if not simple. But its simplicity that makes this car special. Maybe slighty tarnished by a Vauxhall Astra badge, this car deserves serious respect.

The Titan Gold colour in my opinion, looks the best, and everytime I go to get into the car, I grin! like this :-D.

Personally I love this car and would recommend it to anyone.

Faults:

When I bought the car, the front rubber sill was loose, after driving the car around, noticed that the car catches regularly on speed bumps, joy!

General Comments:

The car is pretty quick and the fuel economy isn't too bad to be honest. Handling is pretty good and the traction control cuts in only when required so doesn't spoil your fun, eg when pulling out of a junction too quickly in the wet.

Very impressed with the standard Vauxhall CD player, speakers are really good quality!

Car definitely has the looks and drives well, but visibility is poor when reversing and am very surprised that it doesn't come with an alarm fitted.

Faults:

Passenger side ball joint.

Nothing else.

General Comments:

What can I say, I have really loved my time with this car, 189 bhp as standard, and it's pretty rapid for the power. It would beat my old Clio 172, no matter what anyone says.

In terms of acceleration, 0-60 is quoted as 7 seconds and I believe this to be wrong, because everyone that has one, their car manages it faster than this.

Top end is claimed as 152. I have never done this, but I have manged 140 on a track with plenty of revs left to go, so I won't doubt the top speed claim.

I've had the car a year now, and have covered 30 thousand miles in this time, and the only fault I have had is the ball joint. I've replaced the timing belt and brake pads etc, but this is general wear and tear and not a fault as such.

Very reliable, very quick, lovely body shape. My only problem was the petrol it cost to run it, I was getting on average 24 mpg round town, and about 30 mpg on the motorway.

If you're thinking about getting one, do it. Very easy to see the Saxo VTS boys off, when you get them following you.