Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Car Review

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Review Change...

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Performance

The Vauxhall Astra hatchback range incorporates four different petrol engine options, starting with the 90PS 1.4i, followed by both a 1.6i and 1.8i VVT engine and running up to a turbocharged 1.6i engine producing a very impressive 180PS. For everyday use it is probably the 1.6 which has the best combination of power and economy, producing 115PS while still giving a combined fuel economy figure of 43.5mpg. The turbocharged petrol version of the Astra hatchback is more than capable of keeping up with most hot hatches, with a 0-60 time of 7.8 seconds.As with most modern diesel engines, the ones used in the Vauxhall Astra hatchback range are reasonably smooth and powerful, the 1.9CDTi 16v – 150PS and 236lb.ft of torque - being one of the most powerful in its class.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Driving

With responsive and smooth steering, excellent levels of grip and a chassis/suspension set up that loves going round corners the Astra is one of the class leaders, especially with its more sport-oriented, lowered suspension variants like the Sri. Ride comfort is excellent throughout the range, and it is here that the standard Astra suspension excels, taking the rigours of every day driving in its stride.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Equipment

The long list of standard equipment available on the Astra Hatchback range is quite comprehensive, with electronic power steering, driver and passenger airbags, remote central locking and electric front windows standard throughout the range. A factory fitted CD player and air conditioning are standard fitments from the Life a/c trim level upwards while the Elite Astra model variants include leather upholstery. Motorway drivers will appreciate cruise control, also standard on the Elite trim level along with climate control.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Practicality

As many cars in this class have grown over the years so their internal dimensions have grown with them. The Vauxhall Astra Hatchback has not followed suit though, meaning it is a little smaller than some competitors, though most people will not have a problem. Headroom is very good and there is enough room for two adults to sit comfortably in the back. The boot on the Astra is a good size, though the stylish rear lights make for a relatively narrow opening. For longer loads the seats do fold down but not fully flat, although this is, for most people, rarely needed.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Quality

Build quality on the new Vauxhall Astra Hatchback range is excellent, from the solid sound as the doors close and the high class feel of the switches through to the use of good quality materials in the cabin and seats that remain comfortable on even the longest journey. All the engines are quiet, including the diesels.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Safety

Safety is a huge issue for all drivers and it is therefore reassuring to know that the Vauxhall Astra Hatchback achieved the maximum 5 star Euro NCAP rating. All vehicles in the range have at least four airbags and anti-lock brakes (ABS) fitted as standard, with the ESP-plus stability control system available as an option. Visibility is excellent all around the car, with lots of window area and good mirrors to see those out of the way places, perfect for parking. Vehicle protection is also very important to drivers, so the whole Astra range is fitted as standard with remote central locking and an immobiliser.

Vauxhall Astra Hatchback (2004-2010) Running costs

Running costs for the Vauxhall Astra Hatchback are relatively good in comparison with other models in its class. Service intervals are every 20,000 miles or one year on all petrol and diesel models. Combined fuel consumption figures range from 36.2mpg to 46.3mpg on the petrol engine variants and 40.9mpg to 62.8mpg for diesel.CO2 emissions figures, used to determine both road tax charges and company car driver tax liabilities, are as low as 119g/km for the 1.7CDTi (110PS) . Vauxhall offers as standard a 3 year (or 60,000 miles) warranty, including Vauxhall Assistance breakdown cover during the first year of ownership.The Astra Hatchback is also part of the Vauxhall ecoFLEX range, an ongoing effort by Vauxhall to help the environment through improving aspects such as emissions, fuel consumption and recycling support. As well as being kinder to the environment ecoFLEX also brings financial benefits including low road tax charges and the lowest Benefit in Kind tax band on some Astra Hatchback diesel models for company car drivers.