The new, German-built Holden Astra is a stylish and sturdy small car.

Fast facts

Holden Astra

Base model CD - $21,990

CDX 16 inch alloys/six stacker/cruise control - $25,490

CDXi climate control/curtain airbags/fog lights - $29,990

Four-speed auto (add) - $2000

Engine - 1.8 litre twin cam

Warranty - Three years/unlimited km

Astra-nomic
Ken Llewelyn tests the new Holden Astra and has nothing but praise for this sleek Teutonic pocket-rocket.

THE ASTRA is one of Holden’s most enduring and very endearing vehicles. First introduced to the Australian market in 1998, it has aged well. The new hatch is built by Opel in Belgium, but Holden engineers have refined the car for Australian conditions.

It has a number of improvements over the old model, with a stiffer body and refinements in suspension and sound supression.

It has a stylish body shape with a curved, sloping roofline, which still leaves sufficient headroom in the back. Inside is a modern, very functional, Germanic interior with easy to operate controls, which I personally liked.

Easy riding
The handling, for a mid-range hatch, is superb, with an excellent compromise between handling and comfort. The steering uses an electro-hydraulic system, which was light, but accurate and beautifully weighted.

Even my Toyota Echo-loving partner, who looks with disdain at most of my test vehicles, took the wheel for 100km. Even though small in stature, she was able to find a comfortable driving position and came away raving about the car’s handling. High praise indeed!

Distance to servo
Owners will be pleased at the pump as petrol prices spiral skywards. I achieved 7.8 litres/100km on a 600km round trip from Canberra to my favourite beach resort at Tathra. Of course, constant town usage will up the consumption.

Under the bonnet
The Astra uses a 1.8-litre twin-cam, four valve engine, which punches out 90kW at 5600rpm. Despite the modest capacity, it has good torque, and when combined with the excellent five-speed manual, has more than enough power for most road situations.

I also tried the four-speed automatic, which was superb in town. On hilly roads out of town it did hunt a bit between changes but nevertheless did its job well.

Safety first
It is very well equipped with front and side airbags, a steering wheel adjustable for height and reach, a strong air conditioning unit and electrically operated mirrors and front windows.

Powerful disc brakes combined with ABS and brake-assist ensured trouble-free emergency stops. The cruise control was easy to use, and in these days of our strongly policed roads, it is just about an essential option.

Before you buy
The Astra is an outstanding car and very good value for money. It is well built, enjoyable to drive and should provide years of trouble free service.