Opel Astra 2012 review: snapshot

We pay attention to the newest and brightest stars in the automotive world, asking the questions you want answered. But there's only one question that really needs to be answered - would you buy it?

What it is?

This is the top model Opel Astra station wagon with a diesel automatic transmission and all the resulting fruits.

How many?

The starting price is $35,990, but this car had options up to $40,000 and up.

What are competitors?

Golf, Focus, Lancer, Mazda3, Corolla, whatever, they have heads like white mice.

What's under the hood?

Power comes from a 2.0kW/121Nm 350-litre turbodiesel engine driving the front wheels through a conventional six-speed automatic transmission.

How are you?

Remarkably good. With a torque of 350 Nm already at 1750 rpm, finding overtaking power will never be a problem. The steering is tight with reasonable driver feedback, and the brakes are excellent, with the automatic transmission providing good engine braking in addition to the brakes.

Is it economical?

It's a diesel, so the answer is a big, smelly, noisy YES. However, this is a little unfair, since the small diesel engine purrs just as smoothly as most gasoline engines. Agricultural diesel engines seem to be a thing of the past for modern vehicles. Expect about 6.0 liters per 100 km.

Is it green?

In terms of fuel consumption, yes. In addition, low carbon emissions, and the car will have a relatively environmentally friendly manufacturing process.

How safe is it?

Confident. Along with a five-star ANCAP rating, it has six airbags, countless electronic safety devices and, in terms of passive safety, excellent brakes and handling keep it out of trouble.

It's comfortable?

Salon cramped, but very comfortable. Might be a bit claustrophobic for those with large bezels. The luggage compartment is roomy and can be increased to huge. Access to the cabin is facilitated by decent-sized doors, and the rear hatch opens high and wide.

What is it like to drive a car?

Great. It certainly doesn't feel like a diesel, it has great steering feedback for a car of this type, and it has a suburban brake set. The steering is fairly direct, and the suspension is tuned to provide a good balance of handling and comfort.

Is this value for money?

It's a great kit, but maybe not the best value for money given how many good deals there are and how cheap the almost new used market is.

Would we buy one?

No. As enjoyable as the ride is, at around $40,000, there is plenty to choose from. If it was a little cheaper, it would be more prominent on our "wish list".