Insurance Group: 9
MPG: 51.4
CO2: 129
0-62 Mph: N/A secs
BHP: 86 BHP
Range: 633 miles
PROS: Reasonably priced and with low running costs, this model delivers decent power without incurring hefty bills in the process.
CONS: The level of standard equipment is a little disappointing.
The four cylinder petrol engine delivers 86 bhp at 6000 rpm and 96 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. This means 0-60mph in a fairly lazy 14 seconds and a top speed of 105mph. The Astra can feel a little out of its depth on the motorway but around town it is fine.
The Astra also handles well and the suspension is firm without being uncomfortable. Body roll is also well tamed through the bends and the overall driving experience is satisfactory.
The Astra looks great from all angles. It wasn't so long ago that Vauxhall made dreary cars but it appears that the Astra is continuing the styling renaissance that began with the Insignia in 2008.
Standard equipment for the Astra includes power steering, central locking, stability control, air conditioning, electric door mirrors, electric front windows and a stereo system with CD player and MP3 connectivity.
A built-in sat nav, Bluetooth connectivity, alarm, leather seats, rear parking sensors, cruise control, alloy wheels, climate control and metallic paint finish are all unavailable on this model but offered on some other Astra models.
Room within the car is more than ample for passengers and drivers and there is plenty of room within the rear seats. This is combined with a quiet engine to provide a comfortable drive. There are plenty of storage spaces within the car and the boot is big, boasting a capacity of 351 litres with the seats up and 1,216 litres with the seats folded down.
The model scored well in the NCAP crash tests, achieving a full five star rating thanks to the Astra's impressive level of safety kit and strong build.
Alongside these features, the car is also protected from theft thanks to a standard fitted immobiliser but unfortunately there is no alarm option. To reassure customers over the reliability of their model the car also comes with a warranty for 100,000 miles with a service recommended every 20,000 miles.
Priced at £12,995 the Astra can is more than affordable for the average family but there is stiff competition from rival models too.
The lack of luxuries could be seen as a drawback for some drivers but there is still an average supply of kit that makes the model the ideal family run-around.
Fuel economy is more than acceptable, achieving 51.4 mpg on the combined cycle. Carbon emissions are also fairly low at 129 g/km – putting the car under a reasonably low road tax bracket (D). Insurance premiums are equally as low under insurance group 9. Combined with the good fuel consumption this means this Astra is a great investment for families and first time buyers who want a reliable and economical car.
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