Summary:
An excellent all round package
Faults:
Noise in rear brakes when new. Was repaired at 1500klm.
Otherwise no faults at all.
General Comments:
The body is strong and rigid with no rattles or squeaks on rough roads. Build quality appears to be high and there are no wind noises inside the cab at higher speeds.
I have taken this car on numerous longer trips over the past 8 months and have found it to be an excellent performer on the highway. It is more than capable of maintaining highway speeds when fully loaded and pulls the box trailer along as well. The engine is quite flexible and the auto is excellent with well suited ratios and smooth changes. This is one of the best autos that I have come across.
The interior is quietly classy and provides excellent comfort for longer trips and interestingly, the back seat is one of the most comfortable on the road. Rear leg room is ample. Instruments are first rate and the cruise control works simply and well. Other manufacturers should look at how simple it is to use the cruise control and immediately copy it!
Handling is first rate and tyre wear appears to be minimal. My tyres have travelled 20,000klm and are no were near half worn yet.
Fuel consumption is very good with a tank giving you 600 klm on a trip with a large safety margin.
Overall, I love this little car and would recommend it to anyone.
Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes
Review Date: 16th May, 2003
25th May 2003, 01:37
I have an Astra as well and agree with the writers comments. They are a good car and up to the standard set by similar Euro models.