Tweet
OK, this will be the first of my three first drives I took at the Canadian International Auto Show this year. More coming soon.
2008 Saturn Astra - The compact that should've been here four years ago
XR Model Shown - Source: GM Media
For starters, this isn't a new car. It's being sold all over Europe as the Opel Astra, UK as a Vauxhall Astra. The Astra commences imports this year.
I was given an Astra XE 5-door. First impression was a big wow. Compared to the Ion, this was lightyears ahead. It's a big wonder why GM didn't think of this earlier. On a first glance, it was very roomy for a compact hatchback. I adjusted my seats, and there was still some legroom at the back.
The test vehicle was equipped with a 4-speed automatic. Power from the 1.8L ECOTEC was adequate for city driving, but I wasn't taken onto the highway, and the tuning was definitely not sporty at all. I would expect with a manual it would be a much more pleasant drive, and also look out for the upcoming Astra Redline.
Interior fit and finish was a huge leap from the Ion, but to be very honest, that wasn't saying much. I absolutely loved the full length sunroof. The wide view makes it excellent for trips out to the open for the starry sky. Criticisms include the switch controls, as well as the sound deadening. On first sight, the controls were confusing. The turn signals used electronic switches rather than traditional mechanical units, which did took some time to get used to. I guess on a long run this would be a good thing, since there's less mechanical wear. However, the same could not be said for the wipers. When you're in a storm and you want to flick your wipers all the way to full speed, you can't. You had to flick the lever 3 times before it went to full speed. Also, there's no indication on which setting you are on, which was a little confusing. Also the cabin noise was a bit too much for my taste. I would expect the noise level to be right for the Redline, but I would prefer a little more deadening on the base and family models.
Overall impression was good for the car. It would be a nice seller if it's priced right, and It's a good start for Saturn, to pave way to completely convert over to Opels. At least it's a nice leap from the North American Focus. You hear that, Ford?
2008 SATURN ASTRA XE 5-DOOR
(Source: GM, Unless otherwise stated)
Base Price: $17,900
As Tested: $22,630
Options:
* Heated Seats, Driver and Passenger
* Dual Panel Power Sunroof
* 16" Twin-spoke wheels
- Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel, Shifter Knob and Handbrake
- Steering Wheel Audio Controls
* Vehicle Class: 5-Door Subcompact hatchback, 5 seats
* Powertrain Layout: Front Engine FWD
* Engine: 1.8L ECOTEC I-4 with Variable Valve Timing
* Power Output: 138hp @ 6300RPM
* Torque: 125lb-ft @ 3800RPM
* Transmission: 4-speed Automatic
* Tires: P205/55R16 Touring Blackwall
* Curb Weight: 2921 lbs.
* Wheelbase: 102.9 in
* Length: 170.5 in
* Width: 69.0 in.
* Height: 55.8 in.
* Cargo Area: 345.5L / 12.2 cu. ft.
* Fuel Economy: 34 MPG City, 43 MPG Highway (Source: EnerGuide Canada)
* Warranty: 3 years / 60,000km
* Assembly: Antwerp, Belgium
2008 Saturn Astra - The compact that should've been here four years ago
XR Model Shown - Source: GM Media
For starters, this isn't a new car. It's being sold all over Europe as the Opel Astra, UK as a Vauxhall Astra. The Astra commences imports this year.
I was given an Astra XE 5-door. First impression was a big wow. Compared to the Ion, this was lightyears ahead. It's a big wonder why GM didn't think of this earlier. On a first glance, it was very roomy for a compact hatchback. I adjusted my seats, and there was still some legroom at the back.
The test vehicle was equipped with a 4-speed automatic. Power from the 1.8L ECOTEC was adequate for city driving, but I wasn't taken onto the highway, and the tuning was definitely not sporty at all. I would expect with a manual it would be a much more pleasant drive, and also look out for the upcoming Astra Redline.
Interior fit and finish was a huge leap from the Ion, but to be very honest, that wasn't saying much. I absolutely loved the full length sunroof. The wide view makes it excellent for trips out to the open for the starry sky. Criticisms include the switch controls, as well as the sound deadening. On first sight, the controls were confusing. The turn signals used electronic switches rather than traditional mechanical units, which did took some time to get used to. I guess on a long run this would be a good thing, since there's less mechanical wear. However, the same could not be said for the wipers. When you're in a storm and you want to flick your wipers all the way to full speed, you can't. You had to flick the lever 3 times before it went to full speed. Also, there's no indication on which setting you are on, which was a little confusing. Also the cabin noise was a bit too much for my taste. I would expect the noise level to be right for the Redline, but I would prefer a little more deadening on the base and family models.
Overall impression was good for the car. It would be a nice seller if it's priced right, and It's a good start for Saturn, to pave way to completely convert over to Opels. At least it's a nice leap from the North American Focus. You hear that, Ford?
2008 SATURN ASTRA XE 5-DOOR
(Source: GM, Unless otherwise stated)
Base Price: $17,900
As Tested: $22,630
Options:
* Heated Seats, Driver and Passenger
* Dual Panel Power Sunroof
* 16" Twin-spoke wheels
- Leather Wrapped Steering Wheel, Shifter Knob and Handbrake
- Steering Wheel Audio Controls
* Vehicle Class: 5-Door Subcompact hatchback, 5 seats
* Powertrain Layout: Front Engine FWD
* Engine: 1.8L ECOTEC I-4 with Variable Valve Timing
* Power Output: 138hp @ 6300RPM
* Torque: 125lb-ft @ 3800RPM
* Transmission: 4-speed Automatic
* Tires: P205/55R16 Touring Blackwall
* Curb Weight: 2921 lbs.
* Wheelbase: 102.9 in
* Length: 170.5 in
* Width: 69.0 in.
* Height: 55.8 in.
* Cargo Area: 345.5L / 12.2 cu. ft.
* Fuel Economy: 34 MPG City, 43 MPG Highway (Source: EnerGuide Canada)
* Warranty: 3 years / 60,000km
* Assembly: Antwerp, Belgium
Comment