An affordable 'fun' drive! (Vauxhall Astra SXi 1.6i 16v 5-door Hatchback)

Member Name: fnbbck

Product:	Vauxhall Astra SXi 1.6i 16v 5-door Hatchback
Date:	07/05/01 (1046 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Sporty Seats, Racey 16v engine, Sports suspension

Disadvantages: Grooves collect dirt, Rear window visibility, Ideal if under 6' tall

A car fit for all types of driving, but what I enjoy most is the 'fun' you would normally expect from an expensive sports car, in this affordable family car from a reliable manufacturer.

Before I get onto the drive, let's start with the exterior - well defined as an Astra, brought up to present day styling. The negatives are a)the lip of tailgate & bumper harbours dirt if you're lazy & use Auto Car Washes; b)for the same reason, the nice countours around the wheel-arches. These 2 points are not good on the white model - trust me.

Engine - nice touch with the exterior bonnet release that appears through the grill, so no more grease on your hands as you fumble around to get the bonnet up. Well packed in, with everything labelled for ease of use. Washer bottles are never in the best place, you always spill half a litre before getting the water in the right place.

Boot/Trunk - 2 medium cases plus hand-luggage, with lifting parcel shelf.

Interior - Drivers position is superb for someone under 6' tall - could do with a little more rake on the chair for anyone taller. Everything is in the right place & easily reached whilst driving. Very comfortable 'sports' seats, with adjustable support for under your thighs, and support to the sides for taking the corners a bit faster without sliding. Steering wheel has rake & tilt adjustment, and feels like a proper wheel for a sporty car.

Driving - you know your driving a safe car as you shut the door & it thuds. I've already mentioned the seats, so let's start that engine - vroom.......!!!!!! For 1.6 litres, this is adequate for some fun!! It corners on rails, it sounds the part & accelerates when you ask it to. If I had a 1.8l it would give me a little more for the standing start, but I'd probably do damage.
A fun car that will accodate the family.

Summary: