2005 Chevrolet Optra LT Wagon 2.0 from North America

Summary:

Who makes the Opel Astra? Daewoo, that's who!

Faults:

"Lazy" sensor replaced under warranty.

Replacing the radio is difficult, as the housing is unique to this model, and there are no after market parts.

General Comments:

I leased this car to replace two Buicks, actually.

This car is built by GM-DAT (the fancy name for what GM bought from Daewoo), based on an Opel Astra frame and engine. I didn't know it at the time, but I got myself a rally car.

My priorities were interior space for baby stuff, and either a manual transmission or rear-wheel drive - both would have been nirvana. However, a station wagon with a manual transmission that's not the price of a BMW... ah, close enough.

I really didn't care about handling (O_O), but I was pleasantly surprised. The Kumho tires that were OEM were actually quite grippy. I've taken corners faster than modded Hondas do... and that was with the OEM tires. I've upgraded since then.

This car is easy to speed in. During my test drive, I found myself doing 145 km/h in a 90 km/h zone. *Once you get used to it*, the transmission shifter is quick to shift. Most reviewers who get in, drive for three minutes, get out, and start writing say that the shifter is the worst part of it... It really works well, but you do have to get used to it.

Negatives... try finding any after-market parts for this car. The radio control buttons are in the way. A tank of gasoline lasts only about 500 km, given a 55L tank (but I drive like Danica Patrick on steroids). People ask, "Why didn't you get a real car?" People ask, "Who makes it? Didn't they go belly up a few years ago?"

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 22nd April, 2006

24th Apr 2006, 16:36

Daewoo has nothing to do with the Astra. Daewoo don't make the Astra.

The Astra was designed and it is built by Opel in Germany (exported to Australia as a Holden) and built in UK by Vauxhall.

Daewoo has nothing to do with the Opel Astra. Although, Daewoo is owned by GM.

Your car is nothing more than a Daewoo rebadged as a Chevrolet.

22nd Jun 2006, 15:11

Actually the Daewoo Racer / Pontiac LesMans was nothing, but the old Astra (80's) however less reliable. Daewoo Cielo used as well the Astra platform. As far as I know Nubira & Optra are also using the same defunct technology... It is just the exterior and the interior of the car that look good in the Optra... but mechanics & engine are old technology.

11th Jun 2010, 00:47

GM still owns Opel, and lately bought dying Daewoo motors, so that is plain and simple why they produce outdated Opel models in Korea at the outdated Daewoo factory.

2005 Chevrolet Optra LS 2.4L from North America

Summary:

Ive always wanted a civic most of my life, but now I wouldnt trade my optra for 10 civics.

Faults:

I locked they keys in the car while it was running, the dealer claimed it was impossible and we were unable to recreate the problem nor has it happened since. GM roadside assistance opened it within 30 minutes and I was on my way. otherwise no complaints.

General Comments:

This is the second optra I've owned (the other got wrote off when someone ran a red light).

It's been a very good riding car and seems to be well put together.

The car could use just a wee bit more power, but so did my cavalier which had much more than my optra, but I am generally happy with the performance.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Don't Know

Review Date: 25th February, 2006

18th Jan 2008, 10:45

I own a 2005 Optra LS and have had some issues when I first had the car.

1) I've had to have the Transmission Control Module reprogrammed in 2006, (required a tow twice and inconvenient) since then no problems.

2) The weatherstripping around windshield is sticking out, creates a slight problem with windshield washer (driver's side) remains cold and not flexible like it would when properly heated and defrostting takes a little longer in those spots.

3) Recall under warranty for daytime running lights wiring harness. It's been resolved.

4) Have noticed some chips and/or peeling in the paint on the hood and is now causing rust spots. These weren't there when I first had the car.

Other than those listed it generally has been a reliable, efficient and roomy vehicle. I would probably by another Chevy, but maybe a different model.

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