Vauxhall Astra 1.6i 16v SXi 5dr
A MULTI-AWARD winner and long-time part of the Vauxhall salesman's stock-in trade, the Astra is a force to be reckoned with.
British showrooms have shifted well over two million of them over the years, and this fifth-generation model has already proved its ability to carry the torch for the Vauxhall brand.
You can take nothing for granted, especially continued success in the new car market, but this Astra has turned out to be a safe bet - not the gamble some people originally thought. Factor in the car's five-star EuroNCAP crash test rating, and that safe bet analogy means something entirely different but equally impressive.
Solid and imposing in looks, the Astra presents a sleekness of shape that has evaded the rivals. If anything, it looks less like a hatch, and more like a racer. And with the car's much improved driving dynamics this is no throwaway remark. The Astra is now a genuine alternative for keen drivers everywhere.
Opting for one of the SXi variants further enhances the experience. While they might not be the most outrageous models in the range - you'll need the feisty VXR for that - these Astras do get lowered and uprated sports suspension.
More than just a gimmick, the changes really improve the ride. You can corner with increased confidence on your favourite B-road, but this won't be at the expense of ride comfort. Around town, the ride is surprisingly supple, which is a welcome trait that runs right through the range.
Also welcome on SXi models is a generous level of standard equipment. Along with the suspension improvements, you also get supportive sports front seats with lumbar adjustment, three-spoke leather-covered sports steering wheel, air-conditioning, front fog lights, full-size curtain airbags for added crash protection plus a combined radio and CD player.
That's not all, though. As with all Astras you all get the likes of ABS and electronic brakeforce distribution to keep you out of trouble, Isofix mounting points for child seats, practical split/folding rear seats plus the all-important anti-theft protection for the stereo and an electronic immobiliser for added peace of mind.
The good news continues inside the Astra, as the quality of quality of the materials used in the passenger environment - enhanced with a tasteful dash of chrome here and there - feel like they're from a class above. Interior faddiness, then, has given way to functionality, which the Astra has in spades.
And aside from long list of standard kit, you're also well catered for in ergonomic terms. All the main controls are close to hand, with duplicate audio buttons on the steering wheel. Even the radio display won't cause you to squint, as it's mounted nice and high on the Astra's fascia. And it sounds good, too.
Engine choice for the SXi range is, as per usual with Vauxhall, on the generous side. Running from a peppy 1.4-litre petrol model to a more powerful 1.6 unit plus an efficient and frugal 1.7-litre turbo diesel, there's something for everyone.
If you do a lot of miles, the refined diesel makes a lot of sense, while the petrol models are great if you're not pounding the motorway every day. Quiet, eager to rev and easy on the wallet, they're well matched to the Astra's personality. As an added bonus, the 1.6 petrol model is available with an automatic gearbox.
In addition to the intrinsic qualities of the car, it is important to remember some other important Vauxhall factors. Historically, Astras have been pretty reliable and robust, so there's no reason to assume this variant will be any different. Parts and servicing costs are also pleasingly low, and the Vauxhall dealer network is both extensive and efficient.
All of which adds up to a car that can be bought with both the head and the heart. For all the Astra's good looks, the beauty of the car is more than just skin deep.
FACTS AT A GLANCE
Model: Vauxhall Astra 1.6i 16v SXi 5dr, £14,775 on the road.
Engine: 1.6-litre petrol unit developing 105bhp.
Transmission: 5-speed manual transmission as standard, driving front wheels.
Performance: Maximum speed 115mph, 0-62mph 11.5 seconds.
CO2 emissions: 158g/km.
Economy: 42.8mpg.
Lathams
www.latham-vauxhall.co.uk
336-340 Torquay Road, Paignton, Devon
01803 523506
