2002 Vauxhall Astra Club Estate review from UK and Ireland

Cream accumulates on oil filler cap in cold damp weather.

Pedal rubbers are noticeably wearing.

Incorrect headlamp fitted - had to be replaced.

Fuse kept blowing when opening tailgate due to faulty connection to rear no. plate light.

Spare tyre had lump of metal stuck in side, replaced under warranty (trim clip carelessly left in well).

Bought as a workhorse replacement for Cavalier. Nippier (due to lower gearing).

Pulls trailer full of bikes plus cabin full of people well, and is OK with caravan too.

Even with this engine can be fun to drive, but I get lots of road noise which is tiresome on a long journey with the windows shut, but is not noticeable with them open.

Seating now comfortable, but takes getting used to and needs careful adjustment.

Fuel consumption is about same as old 1.8 Cavalier, had expected it to be a bit better.

Load space very useful (it's what I bought it for), and loading does not seem to impair drive-ability as long as you put lots of air in the back tyres.

I do a 60-mile round trip commute on M5, M6, M54 and apart from road noise does the job well.