In case you haven’t been paying attention, Saturn has re-invented itself over the past three years.
The latest case in point is the all-new 2008 Astra, which brings a decidedly European flavor to the North American compact car market. It is packed with a wide range of standard equipment and safety features, and delivers sporty performance with very good fuel economy.
Astra is the fifth product in Saturn’s completely revamped product lineup. The “oldest” vehicle in Saturn’s portfolio is the Sky roadster, which debuted two years ago. Other new models include the all-new Aura sedan, the redesigned Vue compact crossover – including the Vue Green Line hybrid – and the Outlook crossover.
If I’d been blindfolded behind the wheel of my Astra tester, I would have guessed I was driving a German vehicle.
Astra is offered in three-door and five-door models, each with responsive, European-bred suspension.
Power comes from a peppy but fuel-efficient 1.8-liter Ecotec four-cylinder engine with variable valve timing and 140 horsepower. EPA ratings are 24 mpg city, 32 mpg highway.
There are two Astra trim levels (XE and XR) for five-door models, and a single trim (XR) for the three-door hatchback.
My three-door tester was equipped with a five-speed manual transmission, which is standard on all models. A four-speed automatic is optional on all models.
Astra has all the qualities necessary to serve as a commuter workhorse: The front seats are comfortable, visibility is great, over-the-shoulder visibility is surprisingly good and the big side mirrors make lane-changing a breeze.
An electronic stability control system with traction control is standard on all three-door Astras. The system works together with the standard four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes to help the driver keep control of the car on slippery roads and during sudden stops.
Astra’s contemporary exterior design includes a bright grille bar with prominent Saturn logo, and large, wraparound taillamps with clear lenses.
Inside the car, seats are firm and provide good support. A three-spoke steering wheel, with rake and telescopic adjustments, adds a sporting touch.
Behind the steering wheel is a rounded cockpit that houses a large, three-dimensional gauge cluster – including large speedometer and tachometer dials.
Additional interior highlights include an illuminated glove box, two-panel sunroof, heated seats in cloth or leather surfaces, auxiliary 12-volt power outlet, easy-to-remove rear cargo cover, power door locks and windows, standard six-speaker stereo system with CD player, and steering-wheel-mounted audio controls.
The diminutive Astra surprises with its interior roominess and generous storage capacity. It can accommodate four adults without complaint. The 60/40-split folding rear seat also folds flat with the touch of a single, high-mounted lever. When the rear seat is folded, the Astra delivers 44.8 cubic feet of storage space.
The 2008 Saturn Astra also features a comprehensive list of safety systems to help protect family and friends in the event of a crash.
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