Skip advert
Advertisement
Reviews

2016 Vauxhall Astra review – new Astra is best yet, but can it excite?

With an excellent engine and an outstanding ride the new Astra has some great attributes, but sadly it isn’t a drivers’ car

Evo rating
RRP
from £15,295
  • Great engine, unexpectedly fast and feels well built
  • Overall, just not very exciting

evo Verdict

It may well have been crowned European Car of the Year for 2016, but has the new Astra been designed to thrill or exhilarate? Sadly not, it lacks any real feedback and has very safe handling characteristics that don’t allow for any adjustability. However, the Astra has elements that do feel very well judged. The most powerful engine available not only makes the Astra surprisingly quick, but it’s also a pleasure to rev. It’s also very comfortable as the ride is exceptional, and the controls are well positioned to suit spirited driving, too.

Advertisement - Article continues below

Its attributes may not add up to make the new Astra the most exciting car, but it’s the best base Astra we’ve tried and it has certainly made us eagerly anticipate the VXR version.

evo Tip

Don’t go for the optional 18” wheels. Stick with the smaller 17s as they help create the luxurious, comfortable ride. That may not sound particularly thrilling, but the Astra isn’t the most sporty or direct handling car so it might as well ride nicely instead.

evo Comment

‘The new Astra isn’t a bad car but it isn’t a particularly memorable car to drive either. What is encouraging is the feeling of lightness and compactness, which are excellent starting points for future hotter versions. Pop a sportier petrol engine under the bonnet, tweak the springs and dampers and you might have a rather good hot hatch.’ Henry Catchpole

Skip advert
Advertisement
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

£200k is a lot for a new 911 Turbo so here are some used options
Used Porsche 911 Turbo
News

£200k is a lot for a new 911 Turbo so here are some used options

The new 992.2 Turbo S has supercar-slaying performance and a bona fide supercar price. Pay less for a used one and get very nearly as much performance…
11 Sep 2025
Audi R8 V8 (2007 - 2015) review – the Porsche 911’s equal is a bargain super sports car
Audi R8 V8
Reviews

Audi R8 V8 (2007 - 2015) review – the Porsche 911’s equal is a bargain super sports car

The Audi R8’s launch was perhaps one of the biggest moments in 2000s performance motoring. It’s as sweet today as back then
9 Sep 2025
Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance pack detailed – Japan has all the fun yet again
Toyota GR Yaris with aero pack
News

Toyota GR Yaris Aero Performance pack detailed – Japan has all the fun yet again

We’re not getting the option of an Aero Performance pack in the UK. We’re still poring over the details, though
12 Sep 2025