2000 Vauxhall Astra Coupe Turbo Edition review from UK and Ireland

Nothing really yet.

Vibration can be heard when the driver's door is shut, but this can only be heard from the outside and is inaudible inside the car.

Fuel computer and odometer disagree about the mileage covered. Will mention to the dealer eventually.

Ride is firm, but is still amazingly good considering it's running on 215/40ZR17 tyres.

Tyre roar is quite noticeable, but varies wildly on the road surface.

Engine is superb, but the electronic throttle takes some getting used to! With the turbo it's a bit like an automatic kickdown - the performance changes from sedate to neck jerking when the throttle is 'floored'.

Peak torque (250Nm) appears at only 1,950rpm so you don't have to thrash the engine at all - rapid progression can be made using 2,000 to 5,000 rpm only.

Standard equipment (multi-CD, cruise control, AC, fuel computer) is excellent - only had the boot spoiler added by the dealer.

The electronic cruise control is a vast improvement over the previous mechanical systems.

Smart looks which are fairly anonymous but I like that...

Handling is excellent for a front wheel drive - torque steer isn't too noticeable but you definitely need both hands on the wheel when accelerating hard!

Personally, I think the turbo quells some of the blandness associated with the other models - the 17" rims and other minor details help (I have the 'Europa Blue' paint - which is only available on the Turbo).

Getting 30mpg which is impressive. Group 15 insurance is a major plus too! Plus got £1,000 off in the November price cuts - on top of a good discount!