Vauxhall Astra review (2015-2021)
The Vauxhall Astra name has been through no fewer than seven generations of the family hatchback and the current car is undoubtedly the best by a long way. That’s because it’s the best Astra to drive, and manages this while carrying more luxury and safety equipment than any previous version. What’s not to like? Read our full Vauxhall Astra review below.
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Pros
- Good to drive
- Feels well-put-together
- Can be cheap to run
Cons
- Other hatchbacks have bigger boots
- Some interior parts feel cheap
Interior
Our rating: 8/10
Vauxhall pushed the boat out with the interior of the Astra Mk7.
Most of the plastics feel suitably sumptuous on the bits that you touch on a daily basis, and elsewhere they’re thick and robust so shouldn’t scratch too easily.
There are smatterings of chrome on the instrument surrounds, the ventilation controls and the infotainment system to give it high-end look.
Tech and features
The instruments are very definitely of the old-school analogue variety, but are clear and easy to understand at a glance.
A simple display between them shows the information on driving data, sat-nav instructions or what you’re listening to.
Vauxhall Astra's feature a central touchscreen, but you’ll need to buy a version with Nav in the name to make sure it has satellite navigation fitted.
Every new model Astra has Bluetooth and cruise control as a minimum.
As you head up the trim levels, you also get dual-zone climate control, heated seats and electrically adjustable and folding door mirrors, as well as rear parking sensors and a self-dimming interior mirror.
Performance
Our rating: 9/10
Handling and ride comfort
The Vauxhall Astra is a car that feels properly enjoyable to drive.
Urban backroad? Those potholes and speed bumps pose no great issue.
Motorway? The suspension is firm enough to keep any floating sensation in check, but supple enough to deal with the worst bumps and ridges.
Twisty country road? The Astra is nimble and firm enough to change direction well without too much lean into corners.
Yes, you could argue that a Ford Focus is fractionally more entertaining, and a Volkswagen Golf a hair more comfortable, but the reality is that the Vauxhall Astra strikes the great balance.
Engines and power
The sweet spot in the petrol engine range lies with the 124bhp 1.4-litre turbocharged four-cylinder, which is brisk and revvy.
The 104bhp 1.0-litre three-cylinder engine is also well worth a look, as is the 128bhp 1.2 in newer cars.
If diesel is your fuel of choice, you’d be well advised to consider the 134bhp 1.6-litre, which will suit those who clock up the miles driving long distances.
If you’re looking at a post-facelift car from 2019, the 120bhp 1.5-litre diesel is a cracker.
Practicality
Our rating: 8/10
Even the longest of leg will have little issue getting comfortable in the front of a Vauxhall Astra.
There’s plenty of adjustment, for the seats, and lots of space around them.
Rear seats
The back-seat area is generous enough for two adults or gangly teens. You’ll be able to sit behind a tall driver without feeling hemmed in at all, and your head will be well clear of the roof-lining.
A central passenger in the rear won’t feel quite so good but, in reality, there’s enough space to squeeze three in there for short journeys.
Boot space
The boot is a fair 370 litres, so will take the family’s weekly shopping.
This expands to a decent 1,210 litres with the rear seats folded down.
When folded, the rear seats leave a large step in the boot floor, so you won’t be able to slide heavy items in easily.
Running costs
Our rating: 9/10
Fuel economy
Most models of Vauxhall Astra are fairly affordable to run.
The petrol engines work brilliantly in town, where they have a pretty light thirst, no matter whether they’re linked up to the standard manual gearbox or the optional automatic.
The diesels have developed a taste for fuel, but perform well on the motorway where they could take you from the Yorkshire Moors to the bright lights of London without having to stop to refuel.
The verdict
Interior
8/10
Performance
9/10
Practicality
8/10
Running costs
9/10
This generation of Astra is Vauxhall’s best ever, by some margin.
It’s truly competitive in all areas because it’s decently spacious, really comfortable, handles precisely and won’t cost you a fortune to run.
Far from it, in fact.
Fuel costs are low, insurance prices are entirely acceptable and you shouldn’t have to replace parts very often.
It’s the sort of car that will make you feel good when you take a second to look around the interior, and just as good when you glance back at it as you’re walking away at journey’s end.
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