2001 Holden Astra TS 3-door 1.8 twin cam from Australia and New Zealand
Summary:
Best handler in class
Faults:
Nothing mechanically.
Front doors have recently begun creaking for no apparent reason at low speeds over medium size pot-holes and speed bumps. Very annoying and difficult to pinpoint the exact cause. Any ideas?
General Comments:
The Astra is a great handling car especially when fitted with lowered suspension and low profile tyres.
Throttle response (or lack thereof) is a little annoying, but performance is excellent for the class.
The seats are also VERY uncomfortable at first, but become better over time. Driving position is also very high and leg room isn't great for tall drivers, which doesn't really inspire you to push the car dynamically.
If anyone has any idea as to why the doors creak intermittently I'd love to hear from them.
Overall though the car is easily the best in class. I only wish that I'd waited a while on buying it so I could have picked up an SRi!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 9th January, 2002
17th Jan 2002, 19:39
I agree totally, lack of throttle response is VERY annoying & disappointing! especially on hills! Otherwise, I love it.
23rd Jan 2002, 15:11
Test drove a brand new 2002 CD Sedan.
I noticed the same problem that other reviewers have picked up on - creaky doors over medium bumps in the road. I'm surprised Holden haven't rectified this reocurring
Other than that the car was well finished and has a few nice touches for the 2002 model year.
4th Jul 2002, 21:55
Creaky doors. I have had that on both front doors on my Astra (no rattle yet). I managed to duplicate the noise by leaning heavily on the door armrest with my elbow when the door was shut. Problem solved by apply some lube to the piece of black plastic on door striker plate bolted to the B pillar.
13th Jan 2002, 06:59
Door creak! I had a rattle on the driver's door, after a couple of months I noticed the door stay bolts were loose (sticking out some 3 or 4 threads). On inspection all the 4 doors were loose (stopped my rattle). I do think the bolts should have spring washers on and should be the next size up!
Still, nothing to complain about though, it's the best car in its class.
Regards.
Gary.