Skip to main content

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

4.8 out of 5 stars
64 reviews

See Edmunds pricing data

Has Your Car's Value Changed?

Used car values are constantly changing. Edmunds lets you track your vehicle's value over time so you can decide when to sell or trade in.

Price history graph example
4.88 out of 5 stars

Get used to economy/fun to drive/looks

DelBizo, 03/05/2008
Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

First, this is an economy car; it's why I traded my 6cyl crossover. On my 2nd tank of gas I got 29.82 mpg, with about 75% highway driving. But I drive around the SF Bay area on freeways that move at 70 to 80 mph. With the needle just above 3000 rpm I'm running about 75, and the mpg indicator is above 30 mpg. The automatic shifts to neutral when you're at a dead stop, to save gas, and I quickly got used to it--if you didn't know about it you might think there's a nano-second stumble when you apply the gas to go. After economy, the seat on the 3dr XR is comfortable for my 5'11''/285lbs. Tilt-telescope wheel makes a big difference. Finally, a very fun to drive economy car that looks great!

Report Abuse

4.63 out of 5 stars

Stylish and Practical

salsa xr3, 09/05/2009
Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

My Saturn Astra has been a surprising treat for me. It has all I need in transportation at this point in my life. Stylish and economical (34mpg on the road) 27 around town with the 4 speed automatic on regular gas. I have the leather interior option and the CD40 Opera cd/radio with on board computer that makes keeping track of that fuel mileage a breeze. It is solid to drive, brakes are fantastic, firm and sure. Holds four easily and comfortably. Another surprise very little wind noise, even with the windows down. I chose the 3 door because of the length of the doors. I am 6'4" and have plenty of leg and head room. A/c is standard and effective. I look forward to many happy miles.

Report Abuse
2008 Saturn Astra for sale near you
Showing 3 of 17 listings
See all 17 listings

4.88 out of 5 stars

Astra-nomical fun!

Joe Astra, 03/17/2008
Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have owned my new Astra XR 5 speed manual coupe for about a week. I have put 200 miles on it so far. It is the best riding/handling small car I have ever driven. It also has an outstanding quality interior, and features that you typically only find on a luxury car. I could not be more impressed. I was concerned about the 138 horse power engine having enough power to climb the foothills of the Rocky Mountains where I live. This car eats up the mountains like a piece of cake.The highway I take most frequently that has the steepest grade has a 75 mph speed limit. The Astra takes this hill in 5th gear doing 80 mph, no down shift and plenty of additional power to give if needed.

Report Abuse

4.38 out of 5 stars

Love the car... even with flaws

jennx2, 08/07/2008
Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

I have had my Saturn Astra (XR, 3 door, automatic) for a week now. It is a bit hard to get use to. I went from a Hyundai Tiburon Gt to the 4 cylinder Astra. The Astra doesn't have the get up and go from a stop but it is better on gas mileage. Averaging 26 mpg is the city. The Astra sounds like it is struggling a bit to get from 1st to 2nd gear but after that the ride is quiet and smooth. It handles well and I am interested in how well the winter driving mode will more out. I read reviews about the cupholder being a problem and it is. It was way in the rear compartment. I had the center console installed and there is no improvement there excpet that I gained an arm rest.

Report Abuse

4.38 out of 5 stars

quality + luxury meets practicality

chris, 09/25/2009
Saturn Astra XR 2dr Hatchback (1.8L 4cyl 5M)
0 of 0 people found this review helpful

A pleasant surprise i have an automatic XR handles better ont he corners that my 2003 mitsubishi eclipse gt --- what? i know i could not beleive it either

Report Abuse
Items per page:
5