2008 Saturn Astra Consumer Reviews

Rare Lost Gem

Written by: BBdriver on 06/15/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

When Saturn decided to import the Astra, the dollar/euro relationship was more favorable. Come 2008 the car couldn't be sold profitably enough, hence the lack of promotion and cancellation of the 2009 model. Generous incentives got me a great European car for the price of a smaller Hyundai! 11 years living in Europe enlightened my automotive outlook. Why couldn't Saturn have built this very car in Spring Hill? This car has a solidity on par with my Mercedes. Actual mileage exceeds EPA rating. Comfortable for my 6'2" 280lb body. Great handling on a just finished run up PCH to Big Sur. Enjoying my 25 mile commute so much that I'm considering taking a job further from home!

Favorite Features

My more basic XE model is exceedingly well equipped. The tilt & telescope wheel and multiple seat adjustments should allow anyone not listed in the Guiness Book to find a comfortable driving position. Still discovering new features.

Suggested Improvements

A true European car in its lack of cupholders (just one, inconveniently located). Manual shifting not up to Honda/BMW standards. Radio control could certainly be more intuitive. Wish they had imported the diesel model. Alas, it is gone. :`~(

Report inappropriate post

Great Car!

Written by: Suz on 06/03/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XR 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

I bought this in April 2008 to replace my 1998 SW2 which had 120K+ (I gave the old one to a friend, still running strong!). My Astra is a delight - still wish it had a center armrest. My MPG has improved to well over 32 MPG hwy. I LOVE my Astra, and wish I had a chance to drive it more (but, since I only live a mile from work, I'm not complaining). Have made a couple of trips from NW Chgo suburbs to a friend in rural Winamac IN, and the Astra is a champ. I NEVER get tired of driving it! Oh, and did I mention: I *love* my Astra!! Rock On!

Favorite Features

Wasn't sure I'd like it ... but the heated seats are the bomb!

Suggested Improvements

I wish a center armrest console wasn't so expensive ... where's Santa Claus when you need him ?? :=))

Report inappropriate post

My Astra

Written by: christie on 06/01/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

Traded in an SUV for this. Haven't owned a smaller car in 15+ years. Love the gas mileage and the handling of the car. I had to get used to how loud it sounded at first compared to my other vehicles. I really enjoy the car.

Favorite Features

Look and feel; European features;

Suggested Improvements

iPod connection

Report inappropriate post

Love my Astra

Written by: DGW on 05/29/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

I was in the market for a car after keeping my Corolla for 14 years. I went to a Toyota Dealership to test drive the 2010 Matrix and Corolla, and they were good to drive. Went home to recheck my research and I read a review of the Astra on Edmunds.com and was intrigued. After having a bad experience with a Sales person at Toyota, I test drove the Astra and I am so glad I did. I love Saturn's approach to sales, and the car is not what I expected. I can see why so many people rave about this car. Best part of my day is driving to and from work now!!

Favorite Features

The look and feel of the interior and exterior and the way it seems to just hug the road. Also has good pick up for a 4 cylinder, even in the automatic. Fun to drive, and it looks great in Salsa red.

Suggested Improvements

Same as everyone else, cup holders, center arm rest, Ipod hook up

2 out 2 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

Great Value - Heated Leather Seats!!!

Written by: Sweeps on 04/24/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

As an engineer, I travel for my work, and I have been in many rental cars. The Astra is a notch above. A great value, quality build, fun driver, and attracts lots of inquiries. Given my wife has a SUV, I sold my 1/2 ton 4X4 pick-up (15 MPG), purchased the Astra (great mileage) and a trailer for hauling. When gas is $4.00 a gallon - I'll be ready this time. The Saturn dealer was great to work with. And the heated leather seats are great!!. I have been to Germany and they know smaller, fuel efficient, and fun to drive cars. Recommend you get one before GM does something stupid and no longer supplies them via Saturn.

Favorite Features

Build quality and value. Fun to drive. I think the 3-door looks great. I'm 6'2" and there is plenty of head-room.

Suggested Improvements

Maybe GM should advertise the Astra a little. Everyone seems surprised of its European heritage.

12 out 12 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

Fun to drive, great mileage

Written by: Alfetta on 04/07/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

I first started looking at the Astas before all the GM incentives. I really liked the car for its nice styling, outstanding build quality, and good performance. I just thought the price was a little too high comapared the the VW Rabbit. The incentives made me take a second look, and I am glad I did. Although the HP ratings are lower, the power is spread out over the rpm range and doesn't feel slow at all. Brakes are powerful, and very stable handling on all surface types. It is evident that the car is built by Opel in Europe as the fit and finish is better than my wifes Mexican assembled Saturn Vue. In the past few years I have owned MB C 230, and Audi A3. The Astra is my favorite so far.

Favorite Features

Styling, Handling, Seating Comfort, Handling, Braking. OnStar turn by turn is also nice feature. 32 mpg hwy, 28 city :)

Suggested Improvements

I would like to see the diesel from that is used in Europe, as the high torque would be a nice improvement in performance- No auxillary input.

8 out 8 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

Very happy Saturn owner

Written by: loose on 03/26/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

Went to Bike Week 09 dragging my bike behind my 07 stick Fit sport, really liked that car. Was not looking for a new car, but they redid the Fit for 09 and I thought about a new one. While in FL, I noticed the Saturn Astra 5 door. Had to go and check it out. The car is great. Had to stay in FL for 3 extra days waiting for my trailer hitch. Was the best ride home to Scranton I ever had.

Favorite Features

Sunroof(had to have it), manual trans, auto wipers, auto lights, etc, etc. Solid car.

Suggested Improvements

The usual, IPOD jack, cupholders, another gear.

3 out 3 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

Great little car

Written by: Virginia on 03/23/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XR 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

So far I love my Astra! Its comfortable, sporty, gets great gas mileage, and all around fun to drive. I only have one minor complaint, and that is the temperature control dials are kind of hard to read on the fly, but other than that, its been the perfect car. I love the sun roof, love the heated seats, love the handling, and love the look. My family was very skeptical about me buying this car, but even they seem very pleased after seeing it in action. Its definitely a step above the Fit I tried. More bells and whistles, and much better handling. For the money I don't think it can be beat!

Favorite Features

Sun roof Handling Gas mileage Price

Suggested Improvements

The dials on the temp control and the radio are a little more complicated than I would prefer, but its manageable.

4 out 4 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

Loves It!

Written by: Sara on 03/22/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XR 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

I love my Astra! I replaced my '92 Honda Civic with the Astra and I am very pleased with my decision. It is extremely fun to drive and the handling is responsive. I enjoy the speed-proportional steering; I find that it makes driving in the city effortless. The ride on the highway is smooth. The brakes are great. The acceleration is more than I expected. It really has some get up and go! This car feels very solid and well-made.

Favorite Features

The interior appears really well made and I love the look of the console and dashboard. The stereo is excellent and sounds great! The glove compartment is huge! The 17" alloy wheels are my favorite features; they make it look sportier. I also love the hatchback and it has a lot of space.

Suggested Improvements

I wish that it had an auxillary input jack for the stereo.

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post

My Astra-A Great Decision

Written by: jaxjack92 on 03/22/2009

Vehicle

2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)

Review

Easiest handling,most comfortable, best fuel economy of the 5 Saturns I have bought or leased.

Favorite Features

self-adjusting windshield wipers & the ease with which the Astra takes turns.

Suggested Improvements

1 out 1 people found this review helpful

Report inappropriate post