Tight handling, good gas mileage, styling, flexibility and ride comfort are typically highly rated by Astra owners. Those with a manual-equipped model tend to rate the shifter and clutch highly, too.
Complaints tend to centre around the lack of a standard centre armrest, as well as poor rearward visibility, small steering-wheel audio controls and an initially-confusing stereo system. Most owners wish for XM satellite radio and a Bluetooth phone interface, as well as an iPod hookup. Owners also note that there’s only one cupholder—and that it’s located inconveniently. Some also gripe about the lack of a manual shift mode on the automatic transmission, and many wished for just a little more power.
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| 2008 Saturn Astra (Photo: General Motors) |
Online, owner-stated reliability is somewhat limited thanks to the Astra’s short lifespan—though a used model has a few things going for it as a used buy right off the bat. In addition to what looks to be a very pleasing driving experience, GM’s 160,000 kilometre powertrain warranty should provide shoppers with plenty of confidence. With five years of coverage, many used Astras will have a great deal of warranty coverage remaining. Saturn may be dead and gone, but selected GM dealerships will still honor the warranty should any problems arise.
Check the condition of the vehicle’s paint and seats for signs of abnormal wear, calling any you find into pricing negotiations. A check of consumable parts like the tires, brakes, and clutch is strongly advised, too.
Note that any unwelcomed metallic clunking or popping noises from beneath the vehicle as it goes over bumps means a mechanical check of the suspension system is a must.
A quick check over of all interior electronics for proper operation is also advised. Ensure all power-operated features work as expected, paying special attention to the windows and sunroof.
Be sure to double and triple-check the air conditioner for proper operation, as several owners have reported problems with the system ‘pulsing’ or working intermittently.
A check engine light and reduced engine power could be the result of a bad engine sensor, and a ‘scan’ of the engine computer for stored codes could reveal potential problems on this front too. Note that a check-engine light isn’t necessarily illuminated every time a sensor problem is detected.
End of the day, Astra looks to be a safe bet—especially where ‘new-to-the-market’ models are concerned. Shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency, long-term confidence and fun-to-drive handling should track a few models down for a test-drive. Find a good price on a model that’s healthy and well cared for, and you’ll likely enjoy it for years to come.
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| 2008 Saturn Astra (Photo: General Motors) |
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