Opel Astra

   The Opel Astra is produced since 2004. Five petrol and five diesel engines are available for this car. The 1.6-liter petrol is a good choice, with a decent acceleration and fuel economy. Also there are two top of the range turbocharged petrols, developing 170 and 200 hp. Unfortunately none of them can match the VW Golf GTI or Honda Civic Type-R. For the long range trips the any of the 1.9-liter turbodiesels would be a perfect choice.

   The Opel Astra is an enjoyable car to drive. The steering is sharp and responsive, while soft suspension deals well with imperfect road. It is worth mentioning that the sportier versions come with a harder suspensions, tuned by Lotus.

   Cabin isolation is on the good side. All engines work smoothly and silently, even at the motorway speed. No wonder that the Opel has a reputation for producing strong and reliable engines. The wind and road noises are kept to a low level.

    The new Opel Astra is competitively priced. Unfortunately the base models are short on equipment, while the better trimmed models are pricey. The Astra has low servicing costs and descent fuel economy, unfortunately it's resale values aren't strong.

   The car has a superb build quality. Inside the cabin everything is made from the first-grade materials. Plastics are soft to touch. Interior looks dynamic comparing to it's predecessor. Driver's position is comfortable due to the flexible wheel's and seat's adjustments. Visibility is good in the 5-door hatch, but the rear view is limited in the 3-door hatch. The drawback on the dash is a number of small control buttons.

   The new Opel Astra isn't the most spacious car in this class. The headroom good, but the legroom for the rear passengers suffer. However two tall adults still can make themselves comfortable at the back. The boot is relatively spacious, but you won't load there larger loads due to the V-shaped hatch entrance. This has boosted sales of the Astra with an estate body.

   Front and side airbags, ABS, immobilizer, deadlocks and central locking are fitted as standard on every Astra. Curtain airbags come with the more expensive models, while a stability control system is optional for all models.

   Electric front windows, and power steering come as standard as well. The CD player is fitted to all, but the base trim. It is worth mentioning, that Astra was a first car in Europe to be completed with a digital radio as an option. The Club trim comes with alloy wheels, electric mirrors and an air-conditioning. The Design trim adds leather trim and electric rear windows. The top-specification models come with climate and cruise control, sports suspensions and sporty details inside and out.

   On some Astras there is an option of a panoramic windscreen, which extends into the roof.

   Production of the Opel Astra III still continues.

   Advantages: One of the best cars in this class with fine cabin space, a great drive and excellent refinement.

   Disadvantages: Larger loads might be hindered by the V-shaped hatch entrance.

   Verdict: A vast improvement on the old model.

   Also consider: Ford Focus, Volkswagen Golf.