2005 Vauxhall Astra Elite 1.7 CDTI 100 from UK and Ireland
Summary:
Unreliable, but generally cheap to run, if a bit dull
Faults:
3 drivers seat frames.
2 new stereos.
2 air con compressors; 1 @ 37k, and 1 @ 38k.
1 alternator @ 37k miles.
Air con faults (wouldn't distribute air properly).
Pulled to left when bought, but dealer sorted...
General Comments:
Reliability of car was dire; it's just over 2 years old, with only 40k on the clock, yet I'm on first name terms with the dealership who are nice people, just have to deal with a below par product... On the upside - 30,000 mile services, pity I see them more often than some of my family!
It's extremely comfortable (I've done 600-800 miles in a day, from Bordeaux to Nice with only a trace of backache) with lots of toys (folding mirrors, climate, full leather, heated seats... the list goes on!) excellent on fuel (but thoroughly recommend a DTUK red box 40mpg without, at least 50mpg with!) and the performance when equipped with chip is eye opening (wheelspin in first 3 gears in the wet). Handling is OK in the dry (but very tyre dependent) in the wet DON'T lift off on islands unless you can catch oversteer!!!
Bought a 1 series diesel for some quality (I hope!) and before the warranty runs out!
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No
Review Date: 21st July, 2007
20th Feb 2008, 11:20
My Brother had a 55 reg Astra 1.8i Life Auto as a courtesy car from Adapted Vehicle Hire. When he had his car back after it being repaired I had the Astra for 2 days before the Hire Company picked it up to see what it was like.
Engine and gearbox was good, but saying that I didn't feel it was so powerfull as my C3 1.6i 16v Exclusive Sensodrive which my brother also has as well. When he picked his C3 up from the garage he drove the Astra home and I drove his C3 home and I bomb passed him on the duel Carridgeway. I was surprised as I really thought the 1.8i would give more power like and he would pass me.
As for Styling the Dashboard layout looks a bit too old fashiond for my liking compare to the Citroen. And whilst we had the Astra the stitching in the rear seats came apart so the seats felt cheap. And the seats were too low.
I don't dislike the car don't get me wrong, but I'm not a fan of it like I am of the Citroen.