Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE Review: A Mid-Level Marvel?

Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE: A Reliable and Affordable Family Car. The Vauxhall Astra is a popular choice among families in search of a reliable and affordable hatchback. The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE is equipped with a range of safety features that provide peace of mind on the road

Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE: A Reliable and Affordable Family Car

Overview

The Vauxhall Astra is a popular choice among families in search of a reliable and affordable hatchback. With a range of trim levels and engine options, the Astra has something for everyone. In this review, we'll take a closer look at the 1.6 SE trim, which offers a great balance of performance, comfort, and value for money.

Design and Features

The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE has a sleek and modern design that turns heads on the road. The front grille, bumpers, and LED daytime running lights give the car a sporty look, while the 16-inch alloy wheels and LED rear lights add a touch of sophistication.

Inside, the Astra 1.6 SE is fitted with a range of features that make it comfortable and easy to use. These include:

• Cloth seats with height and lumbar adjustment for the driver
• Leather trim and chrome accents on the dashboard and door panels
• 6-way adjustable passenger seat
• Integrated Bluetooth and USB connectivity
• 60:40 split-folding rear seats
• Rear parking sensors

Performance and Handling

The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE is powered by a 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol engine that produces 105 horsepower and 170 Nm of torque. On the road, it exhibits a comfortable and refined demeanor, with a smooth transmission and responsive handling.

While the Astra is not designed to be a performance car, it's capable of delivering a pleasant and engaging driving experience. The engine is quiet and refined at low revs, and the car accelerates smoothly and quickly.

Safety Features

The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE is equipped with a range of safety features that provide peace of mind on the road. These include:

• Anti-lock braking system (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD) and brake assist
• Rear parking sensors
• ISOFIX child seat mounts
• Six airbags, including driver and passenger airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags
• Electronic stability control (ESC)

Fuel Efficiency and Maintenance

The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE has a fuel economy rating of up to 52.3 miles per gallon (mpg) on the combined cycle, which is impressive for a petrol-powered car. The engine is also designed to be low maintenance, with a 12-year warranty and a service interval of every 12 months or 12,000 miles, whichever comes first.

Conclusion

The Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE is an excellent choice for families in search of a reliable and affordable hatchback. With its comfortable ride, smooth transmission, and range of standard features, it's a great option for those who need a practical and spacious car.

Specifications

• Engine: 1.6-liter turbocharged petrol
• Power: 105 horsepower
• Torque: 170 Nm
• Transmission: 6-speed manual or 6-speed automatic
• Drive: Front-wheel drive
• Fuel type: Petrol
• Fuel economy: Up to 52.3 mpg (combined cycle)
• Service interval: Every 12 months or 12,000 miles
• Warranty: 12 years
• Price: From £16,500 (dependent on trim level and options)

Practical Considerations

• Boot space: 370 liters (expandable to 1,250 liters with rear seats folded)
• Storage compartments: Multiple storage compartments throughout the car
• Cup holders: Two cup holders in the front and two in the rear
• Air vents: Dual-zone climate control with rear air vents
• Armrests: Adjustable driver and passenger armrests

Test Drive Review

"I was impressed with the Vauxhall Astra 1.6 SE's comfortable ride and smooth transmission. The engine is quiet and refined, and the car handles well on the road. The interior is well-appointed, with a range of standard features that make it feel like a premium car. I would definitely recommend the Astra to anyone in the market for a reliable and affordable hatchback."

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