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Used 2008 Saturn Astra Consumer Reviews

4.7 out of 5 stars
149 reviews

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5 out of 5 stars

Can't believe it is a Saturn

R Louis, 09/24/2008
2008 Saturn Astra XR 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

This is a good looking (in and out), nimble, smaller sized crossover. It feels very solid on corners, has decent passing power (5 speed manual), and comfortable seating for a 6 ft adult.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Fun to drive, great mileage

Alfetta, 04/08/2009
2008 Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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.

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4.88 out of 5 stars

Love my Astra

DGW, 05/29/2009
2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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!!

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4.63 out of 5 stars

Rare Lost Gem

BBdriver, 06/16/2009
2008 Saturn Astra XE 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

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!

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4.88 out of 5 stars

An Opel Gem Penske Should Keep!

Opel Fan, 07/05/2009
2008 Saturn Astra XR 4dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I grew up with Opels, and I have owned a Cadillac Catera (nee Opel Omega). My Saturn (nee Opel) Astra XR 5 door is unique, understated and an awesome "German hot hatch". From the wonderful smell of the cloth interior, to the way the CDC40 Opera audio and board computer work, to the sound of the turn signals - this is pure Opel. I have the sport handling package with 18" wheels, and the handling is Mini Cooper-like with incredible poise at 80 mph on the highway. The Astra is no fireball, but I like the balance between excellent shift quality of the 4 speed automatic, fuel economy and acceleration. A future collectible since the Astra will only be imported in 2008 and is discontinued.

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