VAUXHALL ASTRA 1.4i 16V Active Plus 5dr (2009)

Astra 1.4 Active Plus 5Dr Review - Reliable but not exciting

Hi, I own a Vauxhall Astra from 2009. I've owned it for 6 months after I decided to trade in my Focus. I think after a few months ownership, I actually regret it.

It's not that the Astra is a bad car, it's just not on the level of the Focus for excitement. Sure, the Astra is cheaper to run, but it doesn't handle anywhere near as well as the Focus.

That, I think, is down to the Focus' independant rear suspension that helps in keeping the Focus planted through the bends. The Vauxhall just seems to understeer when you give it the berries.

Inside, it's a bit boring, to be honest. It's well made, but not at all exciting. The Focus, for me, had a much better interior and felt more solidily built.

It's a good car but I think that I'll be swapping in 6 months time - maybe for a another Ford.