2008 Saturn Astra First Drive Video

By Edmunds Video Productions | Published September 25, 2009

2:35 min

General Motors is about to take a huge gamble with the Saturn Astra � they�re betting American drivers will embrace the Astra the same way drivers on virtually every other continent have. From Berlin to Brisbane and everywhere in between, the Astra is a sales success � but we�re just not sure hatchback-averse shoppers in the U.S. will embrace it with such open arms. Once behind the wheel of a three-door Astra, we�re singing a different tune. We�re driving an XR, the hottest version Americans will be offered. The XR gets standard 18-inch Dunlop SP Sport summer tires, which give the Astra plenty of road-holding. A quicker 14:1 steering ratio that�s optional on five-doors is also standard, along with sportier suspension tuning and a 15mm lower ride height. Under the hood, however, is the same 1.8-liter DOHC Ecotec four-cylinder that'll power every other Saturn Astra. It boasts variable valve timing, a 6,500-rpm redline and an iron block. It�s good for 138 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque - strong for the class. By comparison The 1.8-liter in the Nissan Versa delivers just 122 hp. Standard transmission is a five speed manual but the optional automatic transmission has only four speeds. Sadly, the twin-top convertible Astra and the wagon version will not make it to the US � instead, just two body styles will be offered here � three door and five door, both are hatchbacks. Prices start at about $16,000 for a five door XE, and run just beyond $18,000 for a three door XR. This might sound like a lot for a little car but even the XE comes with a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, ABS, 16-inch wheels, OnStar, six airbags, stability control and a CD player. Inside, the Astra has a much more substantial feel than the outgoing Ion. From its overall structure down to its interior trim, the Astra has a tight, well-assembled, upscale finish. Our gripes are few � we�d like to see a six-speed manual; rear-seat head room is less than spectacular; and cargo volume on the three door is especially tight. So the Saturn Astra isn�t perfect � it isn�t even the best car in its class. But it is the best small car GM has ever sold in the U.S.