2003 Holden Astra Equip 1.8 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

If you love driving, drive an Astra

Faults:

The only complaint so far is a minor rattle coming from the behind the dash board area. This rattle only can be heard on bitumen roads with course gravel.

General Comments:

This car is a real pleasure to drive it has plenty of driving appeal.

The engine is a little coarse at idle and at the lower revs. It becomes very smooth at around 2000 rpm and sings sweetly above 3500 rpm rpm. The twin cam 16-valve engine loves to spin and produces good torque for hill climbing.

The car has a solid feel on the road, the electro-hydraulic power steering has no vagueness and can be driven quickly through bends with pinpoint accuracy.

The road handling and suspension dynamics are excellent, there is virtually no body roll and the gas pressure shock absorbers soak up bumps with incredible ease.

Cabin noise is very low except for the Dunlop tyres which tend to be a little noisy at lower speeds and when driven on rough bitumen gravel surfaces.

The hydraulic clutch is light and smooth to operate. The gearbox can be a little stiff when it is cold especially when trying to select first gear, once warm, the gearbox is a joy to use.

The cabin is well laid out. The cruise control is simple to use and works extremely well in the manual. The CD player and sound system is to quality and the air-conditioning works well.

The Asta is very economical to run. My driving normally includes more city than highway driving. I have been keeping records of fuel consumption since new and it has never exceeded 8 litres / 100 kms, as the engine is now starting to loosen up I am achieving around 7.3 litres / 100 kms.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 13th August, 2003

14th Mar 2008, 15:03

I purchased a 2003 TS Astra Equipe brand new after falling in love with the build and style of the car in the showroom.

My Astra is fantastic! Looks like it's been forged out of solid steel, holds the road like it's on rails, and the fuel efficiency is sensational. The safety features and the rigidity of build are re-assuring, too.

Servicing is slightly more expensive than Japanese models but this is offset by the Astra's 15000km service intervals. Never paid more than $700 for a major "timing belt" service either despite reading stories of $1,200 or more! My dealer was upfront about the timing belt issue too. Had the air-conditioner replaced twice under warranty and the dealership guys seemed to act like it was their "duty" to get that done quickly for me. No complaints.

I've read many reviews from disgruntled Astra owners but after 5 years there isn't one medium sized or small car I'd trade my TS Equipe for.

2003 Holden Astra CD 1.8 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Brilliant

Faults:

Nothing.

General Comments:

This is by far the best car I have ever driven. It handles brilliantly.

The sound system is great, in fact the whole car is great.

The only thing I can fault is, the seats are a little hard on the back for my liking.

Small problem thou, this car is Great!!!

I would recommend any one, to buy one.

WOW!!!

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

Review Date: 30th June, 2003

7th Aug 2003, 20:27

I've been looking to buy my first small/medium car in OZ.

I'm glad somebody else mentioned the uncomfortable seats as I was accused of being fussy! However, apart from this the CD with ABS and Air-con (as extra) still beats the Ford Focus Zetec hands down, especially if you have to drive automatic! The response in the Focus is so poor when going uphill, but the Astra Automatic revs up as soon as you touch the accelerator, and you don't lose speed or sound like a wailing cat when the Focus eventually drops down gears!

In the end I have bought a CDX It only costs a $1000 or so more than a CD with ABS and Aircon, which is standard on CDX. Along with Sporty leather seats, airbags side and front, heated front seats, trip computer and temp control, and other stuff.

I think it is worth the extra money if you can scrape it together.

2003 Holden Astra convertable 2.2 from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Mmmm leather!!!

Faults:

Absolutely nothing.

General Comments:

The car is comfortable, quiet and a pleasure to drive. My biggest problem, how do I get my wife out of the car. She just loves it.

Had our last Astra for 6 years, if this is half as reliable I'll be well pleased.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 4th June, 2003

2003 Holden Astra TS 2.2 LTR from Australia and New Zealand

Summary:

Value for money!

Faults:

Nothing at all, this car is excellent value for money given you are buying a convertible without the name tag.

General Comments:

Handles well of the start and engine is very quiet + smooth.

Interior + Leather is excellent. I know for a fact the company that produces the interior "Bertone" is well known as an excellent leather maker in Italy.

A few people (and myself) agree that it has the front look of a CLK mercedes convertible (only $80k cheaper) - see one and you'll know what I mean.

The rear has a Volvo look and with its strong (steel) doors gives the car a classy and safe look. Also has definite European styling.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 29th January, 2003

29th Jan 2003, 21:09

I would have to say that I really agree with the impressed feeling that this review gave off!!!

I also own an Astra convertible and all my friends from school say they would die to have such a beautiful car!!!