By Alistair Kennedy
HOLDEN has released threedoor and station wagon variants of its popular Astra small car range.
Although it is technically a hatchback, Holden is calling its new threedoor model the Astra coupe.
From the front it is identical to the fivedoor however all other panels are different.
Especially interesting is the coupe’s adventurous rear styling which reminds us somewhat of the bustle tail of the groundbreaking Renault Megane hatch.
Like the Renault it’s likely to divide opinions but that’s not a bad thing in this day of a lot of rather predictable styling.
The threedoor’s roof slopes quite sharply to the rear helping both the car’s aerodynamics and its coupe image.
Despite this, rear seat headroom doesn’t suffer. Indeed rear seat space all round is surprisingly good.
All three Astra models are powered by the same 1.8litre Ecotec engine which meets Euro 4 emission requirements.
Transmission options in all models are the standard fivespeed manual and fourspeed automatic. Both new Astra models are sold in CD and CDX variants with the fivedoor also coming as a CDXi.
Standard features in all models include ABS brakes with brake assist, dual front and front side airbags, air conditioning, remote central locking, remote central locking, power front windows power mirrors, MP3 capacity in the CD player and steering wheel audio controls.
On the road both the coupe and wagon have the solid feel. Ride and handling are as expected from a small European car. The coupe in particular hugs the road and responds promptly to steering wheel and throttle commands.
Fuel consumption was very impressive, averaging around 8.4 litres per 100 kilometres
In an unusual, but very astute move Holden decided to continue selling the entry level variant of the superseded model which they renamed the Astra Classic to compete with the imported Korean and Japanese cars.
With prices starting at $18,990, the Classic has proved to be a big success.
To arrange a test drive contact Barry Bourke Holden, 755 Princes Highway, Berwick. Phone 9707 2222.
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