2005 Opel Astra Essentia review from South Africa

Nothing - realy!

Only a Toyota fan would understand how difficult it was to buy an Opel, but I am most impressed.

The deciding factor in buying the car was its excellent safety rating and comprehensive maintenance plan (even the wipers and brakes are covered). Looks can be deceiving, you may not believe that this hatch actually weighs 1.3tons! This only adds to safety.

My Astra is spacious, comfortable, reliable and very economical.

The boot is surprisingly big (for a hatch) and this with a full-size spare!

Fuel consumption has been 7.9l/100km average over the last 12000km. However, I've seen 6.5l/100km when driving a steady 120kph with a family of 4 and the boot packed for a week's vacation.

I didn't pay much attention to it when buying, but that MP3 player which came standard is really nice. Would appreciate some cup-holders though. I also regret not taking the cruise control option - I found myself doing over 150 a number of times.

I certainly don't encourage reckless driving, but it does handle corners well and it comes with brakes that will stop a train.

The car is an excellent all-rounder and will serve a wide audience. Mine, a family car and a worthy replacement for my good and faithful Camry.