I've driven loads of rental Astras over many miles for work.

I like them, underrated. I sometimes feel they are cars many people decide not to like based on zero experience of them (like Nissan Almeras for example)

I agree with most of what HJ says in his review, though I think they are much more refined than a Focus on the motorway (which is basically what I use them for). My experience generally of Vauxhalls is that they are very good for ploughing up and down A-roads. The interior is a bit odd in someways (indicators, lack of storage) but nothing that you don't get used to and it feels solid.

I agree with above post - the 115bhp 1.6 is a nice engine and a really good all rounder. I've only driven 1.9 diesels, which are good to drive, so I can't comment about the 1.7s.

I can only base my experiences on driving them rather than long term reliability/mpg considerations, but if it was my money I'd go for a 1.8 VVT - bit more torquey than the 1.6, but without the "potential" expensive problems of a diesel that are highlighted regularly.

Thanks for the replies. I will look at the Mazda, though because I've had such reliable astras before I may just stay with them. Old habits die hard.

I really need the fuel economy but am just wary of potential problems with diesels which I've heard can be expensive to fix.

Thanks again

Crol