Light, nimble and economical, the car won our sympathies mainly by its vast improvements over its lumbering, unexciting and thirsty predecessor. Compared to its rivals, Opel Astra 2021 is still rather average, but with the right engine its extra qualities begin to stand out. And compared to Volkswagen Golf, the prices are noticeably lower.

The 5th generation called Astra L brings a little retro touch but it is not afraid to sport or modernise and remains one of the cornerstones of the Vauxhall portfolio.

Design in Astra L is modern and classic

Previous generations have never really stood out in terms of design, but this new one impresses with a nice mix of modernity and retro styling. The Vizor mask, inspired by the classic ’70s manta mask, in our opinion, is particularly suited to the Astra.

But the designers have also tried to relate the shape of the D-pillar to the famous Kadett D. The rest of the sharply cut bodywork also successfully hides the French genes and looks surprisingly sporty.

German interior with a hint of futurism

The interior is styled the German way. It kept the physical climate controls and large steering wheel, but switched to two large displays dominating the dashboard. One replaces the dashboard, the other serves as the multimedia system. Both can be hidden under a single transparent cover on higher trims, adding a touch of futurism to the dashboard. Compared to the previous generation, the dimensions have not changed significantly, the car has grown more only in width (now at 1860 mm).

You sit near the floor and the seats are more suited for smaller and medium-sized people. This is also true in the back, although there is plenty of room in front of the knees.

Opel Astra 2021 offers agility and comfort

The low centre of gravity and weight, on the other hand, contribute to the car’s agility, even with the comfortable suspension and basic 16-inch wheels. This is most true of the light petrol versions of the hatchback. The estate has to keep the long rear end in check with stiffer dampers, and the same goes for the added pounds in diesel.

Choose the right engine

The two weakest engines offer the most certainty. The atmospheric 14-stroke with MPI injection, which even on frequent short journeys does not threaten dangerous carbon build-up. And the three-cylinder 1.0 Turbo, often overlooked but reliable, refined and cleaner than the 77kW and five-speed gearbox would suggest.

More often you’ll come across the 1.4 Turbo, which doesn’t run better and is all the more notorious for its technical sloppiness, unfortunately. Owners often complain about twitching and power fluctuations.

By far the most Astras are powered by the 1.6 CDTi diesel. Quiet and economical, but it tends to take the saved money back. The first cause is expensive and unrepairable Japanese Denso injectors and the second is chain drive timing faults.

Interesting Opel Astra 2021 reviews

All-encompassing Opel Astra 2021 What Car review

What Opel Astra 2021 reviews agree on

• Affordable pricing in comparison to alternatives
• Excellent classic but futuristic design
• Driving is average and not fun

• Tight interior, expecially rear legroom
• Some engine choices not recommended