After being a hit in Europe for a number of years, Saturn finally replaces the Ion with the US debut of the Saturn Astra. The Astra comes in two hatchback configurations, either with 3 or 5 doors, and is a welcome compact addition to Saturn's lineup adding some European flair.
The interior styling is very strong for its class with elegant looks and a soft feel and materials. Fuel efficiency is rated at a smile-inducing 24/30 mpg for the automatic. The ride in the Astra is backed with smooth suspension and is particularly pleasing with the manual transmission. Some critics and buyers have complained that certain controls are a little too European and take some adaptation from American drivers. Also, there is no center armrest and AC is not standard on the base trim.
Some other compacts you may be interested in are the Mazda Mazda 3 if you are looking for an even sportier ride, or the Honda Civic Sedan if you are interested in checking out a top-selling compact.
It's rather strange for AC to not be standard in the base model. I haven't been in a car for ten years that didn't have AC. There's nothing worse then driving from A to B on a hot summer day with the windows down letting in warm air.
Posted by: Sil78 | March 13, 2008 at 12:20 PM
It's a good looking car though and you can choose to get AC, it doesn't get too hot up here so I could deal. 24/30 to the gallon is great gas mileage.
Posted by: Jonathan | March 13, 2008 at 12:22 PM
It is surprising to see that more European models are not released to the U.S. The styling and comfort are usually a bit more superior. A younger consumer may be more suited for the European styling.
Posted by: mleighto | March 14, 2008 at 12:45 PM
The Astra is a breath of fresh air for Saturn. Bye Bye Ion!!
It might not end up being the best in its class, but the new Astra just might make you rethink American.
The 2 door version looks sharp!
Posted by: Automan | March 14, 2008 at 09:33 PM
Saturn is moving in the right direction by looking at more European inspired vehicles. Smaller, more compact, better economy, and different styling. A few more miles per gallon would be a little more competitive since it is a smaller vehicle than previous Ion models.
Posted by: ckroll98 | March 17, 2008 at 11:56 AM
Cool, this is a good looking little wagon, but a few more standard features would be nice. Even though A/C isn't necessary everywhere, it certainly aids in resale value and if you ever take the vehicle on a trip to a warmer climate. Just my 2-cents.
Posted by: CharlesWayne | March 17, 2008 at 12:05 PM
Great point mleighto! the Ford Mondeo is one of the sharpest sedans I've ever seen. Its sad when the 500 gets fobbed off on the Americans while Europeans get some of the hottest rides.
Posted by: taurusfan | March 17, 2008 at 08:11 PM
I like the idea of bringing more European models to our shores. Gas is even more expensive over there, after all. Maybe they take extra care to make sure the ride is enjoyable since it's so pricey. In any case, more options like the Astra never hurts the consumer.
Posted by: axel76 | March 21, 2008 at 09:02 AM
Okay, don't need an armrest, but air is key and should be a given...that is if you aim to sell the darn thing.
Posted by: sondra jordan | March 21, 2008 at 12:05 PM
I think the small diffferences between European and American models could hurt the Astra. We like things a certian way and they like things a certain way. I don't see why Saturn couldn't have just done a little bit of adjusting to "Americanize" it. Still an okay option, but no AC?
Posted by: vivamurillo | March 22, 2008 at 05:26 PM
It's good to see some european cars crossing the pond. Share and share alike I always say. I think Saturn is doing the right thing but um...go ahead and put that AC in and your golden.
Posted by: Alex767 | March 26, 2008 at 10:59 AM
Is it cold in Europe because in the summer i need AC and that is that. Don't bring your European junk over here if i can't be comfortable in it.
Posted by: TimSheep | March 26, 2008 at 11:45 AM