2001 Holden Astra SRi review from Australia and New Zealand
"Great car for those with deep pockets or who purchase one already repaired"
What things have gone wrong with the car?
Intermittent brake noise when cornering or lots of weight in rear of car.
Ignition barrel that failed on a hot day (apparently a common problem for all TS Astra's)
Charcoal/Blackish paint fades easily unless waxed/polished 3 times a week.
Brake rotors wear way too quickly for a late model car. Poor quality metal used in GMH rotors so been advised to fit DBA slotted rotors for longer rotor and pad life.
The 5 speed manual gearbox is very notchy and sometimes hard to find the correct gear. Reverse gear lockout can be a hassle sometimes when changing gears and hand slips on it.
General comments?
Interior of the SRi model is well appointed. Very roomy and comfortable heated seats make long trips a pleasure.
Excellent fuel economy around town, but outstanding fuel economy at highway speeds. 5L/100Km's is normal even with some spirited driving. The 2.2L motor is very torquey and pulls well from low rpm. Does struggle to rev at hi-rpm though.
Yokohama C-Drive tyres with the factory 16" rims, along with a Whiteline "BHR75Z" rear swaybar fitted transforms the handling of this little hot hatch.
The body kit is very appealing and makes the car look very sporty.
Recommended Reviews:
![]() ![]() | Great small-medium car |
![]() ![]() | VERY expensive to run |
| Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? | Yes |
| Model Year | 2001 |
| First year of ownership | 2006 |
| Most recent year of ownership | 2006 |
| Engine and transmission | 2.2L petrol Manual |
| Performance marks | 9/10 |
| Reliability marks | 7/10 |
| Comfort marks | 8/10 |
| Dealer Service marks | 6/10 |
| Running Costs (higher is cheaper) | 7/10 |
| Distance when acquired | 89000 kilometres |
| Most recent distance | 98750 kilometres |
| Previous car | Honda Civic |
| Date of Entry | 23rd November, 2006 |

