2006 Holden Astra CDTI review from Australia and New Zealand

We had problems with sales staff (initially condescending and disinterested until a male returned with the buyer). When will we be able to buy on-line from the manufacturer, and bypass these sharks?

There are some mild paint blemishes on vehicle and it has limited passenger storage spaces. Don't even think of adding after-market electrics, such as sound-systems or driving lights since the vehicle systems are proprietary and tightly integrated.

I largely agree with the previous reviewer on this car. Ours was bought as a replacement 'shopping trolley' / commuter for my wife's Pulsar, with a view to upgrading a little for holiday trips (My other vehicle is an RA Holden Rodeo Turbo Diesel Crew Cab). We had also considered Subaru and VW models.

I am an unabashed diesel fan and this little beauty did not disappoint me. I have not felt acceleration like that since my beloved V8 Torana. It does low 8's for 0-100 and the published top speed is 208kmh.

The cars are built in Belgium and Germany. The diesel design comes from a European 'skunk-works' involving a consortium of GM, Fiat, Alfa and Saab. The engine is literally a 21st Century creation and is as good as diesel gets, period. The turbo is a top-shelf Garret unit with variable-vane technology. The common-rail injection system is capable of multiple squirts in each cycle, each accurate to one cubic millimetre of volume.

The car is 'tight' in all respects. There is no body flex and the handling inspires great confidence. The car feels 'safe' to ride in and the suite of electronic stability enhancements lifts amateur drivers into the Schumacher class (well, protects them from the consequences of their mistakes to a large extent). It has more airbags than a 737 (grin). This is a car you would be comfortable sending your loved-ones out in.

Overall, we feel that we have made a very good choice!