Driving

The Astra Sport Hatch has an able range of engines. Choose faster variants, and the surging power, slick gearbox and tight handling makes the Astra great fun on country lanes. Grip levels are good, too, so it’s a pity the nicely weighted steering feels so remote. Even that doesn’t prevent it from being entertaining to drive, though, with sharp turn-in and a well balanced chassis. Faster versions even get a Sport button, sharpening the steering and throttle response even further. But while it’s involving, the trade-off is a ride that’s not very forgiving. There’s kickback through the steering and it can be tiring on long trips. For such journeys, the long-legged diesels would be our choice, particularly the 1.9-litre 120 and 150 units. They’re a little clattery, but usefully punchy.

Marketplace

Short overhangs, dynamic proportions and a low, purposeful stance ensure the Astra stands out, with only the bonnet and front wings common to the 32mm taller five-door. It really does have a coupe-like appearance. You can even choose an optional 1.8m square Panoramic glass roof, which does without a crossmember linking the windscreen pillars, giving a totally unimpeded view forwards. It’s very dramatic around town. But the dramatic looks clothe a conventional line-up of engines and trims; petrol units include 1.4-litre, 1.6-litre 1.8-litre petrols, and a 1.6-litre turbo, while there are 1.7-litre and 1.9-litre turbodiesels. The trim line is biased towards the sportier range of Astras – SXi, SRi and Design. Rivals offering similarly coupe-look three-door family hatches include Citroen with the C4 Coupe, Renault’s Megane Sport Hatch, Kia’s Pro_cee’d and the Volvo C30.

Owning

The cabin is unchanged from that of the five-door, and is fairly conventional and uninspiring. Build quality is good, but it’s ergonomically poor. The air con controls are low and fiddly to use, plus stowage is in short supply. However, the seats are excellent, with ample side support and comfort. Rear seat space isn’t bad either, but practicality issues mar the boot. Access is poor, with a high boot lip and narrow opening, while a mere 312-litre capacity is little larger than some superminis. The Astra also looks expensive (prices are identical to the five-door) and equipment isn’t especially generous. But retained values are strong for a Vauxhall, proving usefully higher than the five-door, while the engines aren’t only powerful, but economical, too.