Used Vauxhall Astra Review (2015-2021) MK7
Independent review by Peter Hayward from Driving Force
4-minute read
Overview
- Range of powerful and economical engines
- Fun to drive
- Well-equipped
- Rivals offer more kerb appeal
- Below average boot space
- Looks aren't the most exciting
What's the Vauxhall Astra like?
Just like so many Fords, Peugeots, BMWs, and VWs, the Vauxhall Astra seems to be everywhere you look.
That means that if you’re interested in buying a used Astra, you'll probably have hundreds to choose from in your local area.
As well as the 5-door hatch, there's a 5-door Sports Tourer estate and the svelte GTC 3-door coupé.
Engines
Petrol engines in the Astra are all turbos, apart from the 100bhp entry-level 1.4-litre. It’s not particularly quick, but can reach over 50mpg according to official figures.
The 1.0-litre turbo is a much better bet, with 105bhp but loads more mid-range urge. It covers the 0 to 60mph sprint in 10.5 seconds and with standard stop/start and other fuel saving measures, it’s capable of 64mpg with very low 102g/km emissions.
Next up the range are two versions of the same 1.4-litre turbo with 125bhp and 150bhp, covering the 60mph sprint in 8.6 seconds and 7.8 seconds respectively.
These are quick cars, but they're still reasonably economical and have sub-130g/km emissions.
The performance flagship of the range is a 200bhp 1.6-litre turbo, with a top speed of 146mph and a 60mph sprint time of 6.6 seconds. Yet even this stormer has a claimed average of 46mpg and 141g/km of CO2.
Moving on to the diesels – there are three versions of the same 1.6-litre ‘Whisper’ engine used across the Vauxhall range.
These give a choice of 110bhp, 136bhp, and 160bhp outputs and even the slowest covers the 60mph sprint in just over 10.0 seconds.
Add Vauxhall’s Ecoflex fuel saving measures, and it’s claimed to do no less than 85mpg and have emissions down to just 88g/km.
Driving Experience
Focused suspension makes all Astras fun to drive, with a smooth and punchy power delivery. All have decently weighted steering, excellent grip, and safe handling.
Peter Hayward
They're also comfortable over most surfaces, while not quite matching the Golf or the Focus over the lumps, and come with lower than average insurance groups.
Equipment
The range falls into six basic models – Design, Energy, Tech Line, SE, sporty SRi and Elite – with special editions added in between.
Inside, all have good levels of technology and there are no less than 13 different models to sort out into the ones you want or can afford.
Design comes with air conditioning, heated electric mirrors, alloy wheels, stereo remote controls, traction control, four electric windows, cruise control, and loads of airbags.
SRi adds sports front seats and sat nav, and Elite has heated leather seats, alarm and heated mirrors.
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Find your Vauxhall Astra your way with CarStore
The Vauxhall Astra has made it as a popular household name in the family hatchback class, thanks to its many attractive attributes. Providing a mix of comfort, excellent technology, and a first-class driving experience, the Astra is ideal for family life and individuals alike.
