GM only sold it here for one year, and it didn't sell that well, but it is quite common in Europe, even being the #1 best-selling car in Europe some years. However, the Astra shared nothing with any domestic GM cars of the time.
It uses the 1.8 Ecotec, which is now common and shared with the Cruze and Sonic. But at the time, it was unique to the Astra, and it's possible there may have been some changes from Astra to Sonic/Cruze
The biggest plus is the huge panoramic sunroof, and it's supposed to drive nice.
The biggest negative is the timing belt, weird ergonomics, and possible poor parts availability. You can't get a muffler or exhaust for the Astra. You would have to find someone in Europe that will ship to the US. I did find a nice 304 exhaust at a price comparable to most Magnaflow's prices in the US. For less money, basic OE replacement mufflers are available, but I am a big fan of 304.
The biggest question is the reliability. Are these good cars?
It uses the 1.8 Ecotec, which is now common and shared with the Cruze and Sonic. But at the time, it was unique to the Astra, and it's possible there may have been some changes from Astra to Sonic/Cruze
The biggest plus is the huge panoramic sunroof, and it's supposed to drive nice.
The biggest negative is the timing belt, weird ergonomics, and possible poor parts availability. You can't get a muffler or exhaust for the Astra. You would have to find someone in Europe that will ship to the US. I did find a nice 304 exhaust at a price comparable to most Magnaflow's prices in the US. For less money, basic OE replacement mufflers are available, but I am a big fan of 304.
The biggest question is the reliability. Are these good cars?