Used Vauxhall Astra Coupe 2001 - 2005 review

Being based on the Astra hatchback is no bad thing as it provides the Coupe with a taut chassis and good cornering ability. The Coupe sits 30mm lower than the standard car and has firmer suspension settings, so it drives more sportily, but you'll only notice the ride being anything less than comfortable on the bumpiest of roads.

Likewise, the driver shouldn't have any problem getting comfortable thanks to a highly adjustable seat and steering column. However, the design of the cabin is not that inspiring (and not that different to the standard hatchback), although it is well laid out and logical.

On the other hand, it is remarkably practical for a two-door. There's a good helping of space for the driver and front-seat passenger, and two adults can sit in comfort in the back unless they're very tall. Plus, the front seats slide forward as they tilt, so it's simplicity itself to get there. And, to cap it all, the boot is a decent size and there's a split-fold rear seat.

It's a Vauxhall, so it shouldn't be too expensive. Fuel economy is good, for a start, with the 1.6 delivering 42mpg, and the 1.8 and 2.0 Turbo returning 35mpg and 31mpg respectively. The 2.2-litre option delivers a reasonable 34mpg.

Insurance premiums are competitive for the class, but as with all coupes they are generally high. The 1.6 starts in group 9 and the Turbo comes in at 15. The 1.8 and 2.2 sit at 11 and 13.

The coupe's service intervals of every 10,000 miles are par for the course, but Vauxhall dealers aren't known for their high prices, so that will cushion the blow. However, you will also need to budget for timing belt changes (every 40,000 miles), so check when it was last done.

There are four four engines to choose from, all petrol. At the bottom of the range, the 99bhp 1.6 is for those who prefer a slower pace, but the 123bhp 1.8 has just enough power to feel nippy.

On the other hand, the 144bhp 2.2 has plenty of go, and the 2.0-litre turbo is genuinely rapid, delivering near-150mph performance.

Of these various options, the 2.2 is probably the best bet. It's quick enough, has reasonable fuel economy and doesn't attract massive insurance premiums. It's also the only option if you want a coupe with an automatic gearbox.

Whichever you choose, you'll get plenty of kit, with air-con, power steering, remote central locking, alloy wheels, a single-slot CD player and front electric windows on every car. The two largest-engined models add a CD multichanger and cruise control, and it's worth keeping an eye out for a car with leather and climate control, both optional extras when the Coupe was new.