SXi 1.7 CDTi (100ps) 5dr Hatchback

No frills hatch with some gremlins

This has been one of those kind of cars that never sets your hair on fire, but gets the job done in a biege satisfactory way.

The 1.7 unit is old school compared to modern offerings, so it knocks and rattles on cold mornings and when you push it. The 98bhp/180lb/ft may not sound that special, but it's enough to shift the car for a decent overtake when you need it. However, it's not mega-power, so this is not a car where you stay in top gear and waft past. The 1.9 would be better at that, if you value speed more than economy. Talking of economy, it returns a sturdy performance of 50mpg or thereabouts, with the majoirty of that being on motorway. If it had a sixth gear, I reckon it would be even better. Cruising at 75mph, the car is pushing 2750rpm, which is too high for a diesel.

The interior is functional, if not particularly sexy. Unlike newer Vauxhalls, there isn't a million buttons to confuse you left, right and centre. Materials are OK; average for its age and class, I suppose. Seats are fairly supportive, and just about soft enough to be comfy. Luxurious is a word you'd never associate with them, though. The steering wheel is a pleasing leather affair with good function buttons, and the gear shifter has a crispy short throw to it.

Throughout ownership, there have been two occasions of the boot flat-out refusing to open. It's electronically operated via a rubber button, so it's not a case of spraying some WD40 on it. It's fairly common, so just be aware of that. We've also had a tempormental CD player, so it's just worth noting these small things if you are considering an Astra H.

This car has honestly been fine, and just fine. If we had the 1.9 engine, I'd perhaps use a more wild adjective. But it does what it was made to do well - just don't expect it to fulfil your mid life crisis thrill seek.

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