Vauxhall Astra 1.4T 16V 150 Sri Nav 5Dr Auto Petrol Hatchback

Driving Experience

The engineers created a completely fresh platform for this MK7 model Astra but it isn't one featuring the multi-link rear suspension set-up that does so much to make a rival Ford Focus ride and handle so sweetly. The downside of that kind of arrangement lies not only in its cost but also in the way it intrudes on bootspace (which is why a Focus' boot is so relatively small). Hence the decision with this Astra to stick with the previous model's relatively simple torsion beam rear suspension system, a set-up enhanced with a so-called 'Watts linkage' feature to improve cornering stability. The engine range though, is very different. True, there's still the option of the old normally aspirated 100PS 1.4 litre petrol unit at the foot of the range but it's the new turbocharged engines that are of most interest. The 105PS 1.0-litre three cylinder unit from the Corsa and ADAM offers marginally more power but a whole heap more torque that'll make for much easier progress. Moving up the petrol range, there are 125PS and 150PS version of a direct injection 1.4 litre four cylinder turbo, plus you can ask your dealer about a 1.6-litre 200PS version of this engine too. Most Astra buyers though, are probably going to want a diesel. The old 1.3, 1.7 and 2.0-litre CDTi units have been pensioned off and in their place sits the quieter, torquier 1.6-litre CDTi diesel, offered here with either 110 or 136PS in mainstream form or with as much as 160PS in BiTurbo form at the top of the range. Both petrols and diesels should benefit from a new six speed gearbox that should make for sweeter shifts.

Cost of Ownership

Put simply, you're not going to find an Astra that's going to cost you a huge amount to run. Even the 1.4 petrol turbo is likely to return around 50mpg with a light right foot, while of course the 1.6-litre CDTi diesels will manage much more. The 1.0 three cylinder petrol model manages 64.2mpg on the combined cycle and 102g/km of CO2. If operating costs are your biggest worry then step forward the 1.6 litre CDTi 110PS diesel ecoFLEX model, a car capable of 91.1mpg on the combined cycle while emitting only 82g/km of CO2. Sadly Vauxhall have dropped their 100,000 mile 'lifetime' warranty and now offer a standard three year 60,000 mile effort; the industry standard in other words. Residuals may be marginally improved by a promised extra focus on quality - we'll wait and see on that. As usual, you can help yourself in terms of model depreciation by exercising a little restraint when it comes to ticking boxes on the options list. It's very easy here to get up towards a £25,000 car without too much effort. Stick to the essentials that will make the vehicle more appealing to its potential second owner and you shouldn't do too badly.

By Car & Driving

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