Astra 1.7D

Good in places, slightly disappointing overall, horrible parking brake

Had this car on a long term loan. First impressions were good - until I tried to dive off and started having fun and games with the electronic parking brake. This is a little switch that looks like it ought to raise a window but in fact has replaced the good old handbrake. This is by far the worst part of the car as it is slow to engage and release, sometimes doesn't release etc etc. It is the one single reason why I won't buy a new shape Astra. Which is a shame because the rest of the car is really quite good.

Sharply raked windscreen and thick pillars in the modern idion means a big blind spot which is annoying but typical of almost all modern hatchbacks. Alloy interior trim reflects in windscreen. steering is too light for my tastes but roadholding and handling are pretty good.

Very economical to drive and 1.7 diesel is a good performer. Feels stronger than the figures. Boot has double floor feature which is pretty useful and seats are comfy with plenty of adjustment.

Report as offensive