Vauxhall Astra 1983 to continuing

The Vauxhall Astra first went on sale in the 1980's, and are still going to this day with there latest little number (the VXR). They have made so far 5 different types with a few face lifts on the way.
The Astra is a solid, dependable, practical car. Most are pleasant to drive, comfortable to travel in and cheap to operate. But there against themselfs because thereinteriors are drab and have only average space set by current standards. Diesel models lack refinement. Pre1999 Astras have a minimum of safety features. As for the reliability, the suspension and electrical faults are commonest. It's recomended to replace cambelt and brake discs at around 40,000 miles.

The Performance, Ride & Handling, Refinement, Safety & Security, Behind the wheel and Equipment gets * * * * * stars.
Weres the Buying & owning, Quality & Reliability and Space & practicality gets * * * * * stars.

The engine choice has grown and been up dated during the Astra’s life. The medium-sized petrols (1.6 16v and 1.8) give the best blend of driveability and costs. The two 1.6 engines offer an auto gearbox, it’s not the sweetest, but neither are the manuals. The diesels are low on refinement and performance, but the petrol 2.2 is an angel.There’s nothing fancy about the Astra’s chassis, but that simplicity serves the car well. All models are light and easy to drive, with good steering and a fine ride, (along with beeing known for cheap insurance quotes).While the more performance oriented versions (SRis and 2002’s Turbo) are satisfying hot hatches. However, ABS and TC disappointingly remain comparative rarities, even today. Hatches and estates were launched simultaneously in spring 1998, followed by the saloon (October 1998), coupe (summer 2000) and convertible (late 2001). Engines have been constantly uprated, with the eight-valve 1.6, 16v 1.8 and the two turbo diesels progressively gaining more performance from early 2000, and the 2.2 petrol replacing the 2.0 the following year.

The new VXR is known for it's Eye watering acceleration, head turning looks & room for four. It's also got an against due to the Power can overcome chassis, high running costs, unlikely to hold its value as well as a Golf GTI & poor rear visibility. It's sed to cost around (£19,120).
The VXR uses a 237bhp version of Vauxhall’s turbocharged 2.0 litre petrol engine to deliver blistering acceleration. While it’s rather flat at low revs, there’s a massive surge as the turbo gets into its stride and launches you forward. Flat out, rivals simply won’t be able to keep up.The Astra’s suspension and steering have been modified compared with the previous Sport Hatch to deal with the glut of power. Accelerate hard and the steering wheel starts to lighten and twitch, but you remain in control. There’s good grip through corners and the steering guides you accurately and keeps you informed. The ride is firm without being uncomfortable and isn’t upset by poor surfaces. Because of its wider tyres the VXR kicks up more road noise than lesser Astras, but wind noise is still well contained, so it’s a fine motorway cruiser. While the engine is docile and quiet at low speeds, there’s a sporty snarl to the exhaust and a lot of noise from under the bonnet as the revs increase. The VXR has a comprehensive array of safety equipment, ABS and front, side and curtain airbags are fitted as standard, along with a stability control system that, when switched off, cuts in to stop the car sliding off the road. Deadlocks are fitted to deter determined thieves. Apart from the aggressively bolstered front seats and a few sporty touches, the VXR’s interior is practically identical to the standard Sport Hatch’s. There’s a good range of adjustments for the driver’s seat and steering wheel, but the centre console is overly complicated. Forward visibility is fine, but small windows and large pillars obstruct the view to the rear as sed.

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And the next Blog will be called (vauxhall Cavalier and Carlton).

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