Overview & Reviews

Before meeting its maker during the General Motors bankruptcy drama in 2009, Saturn had been trying to inject some European flavor into its model lineup. One step in this process was the arrival of the compact Saturn Astra hatchback for the 2008 model year. Though the Astra nameplate was new for most Americans, it had been (and continues to be) produced in Europe under GM's Opel and Vauxhall brands.

The Astra's crisp handling, interior sophistication and sharp styling helped it stand out from other economy cars. However, its powertrain was subpar, there was no sedan body style and its price was a bit dear for American tastes. As a result, it sold poorly and was only produced for a single year. If you're shopping for a sporty small car, though, a used Astra is a distinctive and likely affordable option. Just keep in mind that maintenance could be a hassle due to the Astra's scarcity and European sourcing.

Most Recent Saturn Astra

The Saturn Astra was limited to a single year of production -- 2008. It was available as either a two-door or four-door hatchback. The four-door came in base-level XE trim or sportier XR trim, while the two-door came in XR trim only. Both bodies featured a 60/40-split fold-down rear seat, giving the four-door almost 45 cubic feet of cargo space. The two-door model sacrificed some of that space to its sloping rear quarters and more aggressive profile.

The Astra came fairly well-equipped in base XE guise, including six airbags, stability control, a tilt/telescoping steering wheel, rain-sensing windshield wipers and a CD player. Jumping up to the XR trim level added quicker steering and a sport-tuned suspension (two-door only), air-conditioning, alloy wheels and an upgraded audio system. Most of the XR features were available as options on the XE, and a large sunroof was available on both four-door trim levels. Satellite radio and an auxiliary audio jack were not offered, however.

All Astras were equipped with a 1.8-liter, four-cylinder engine that produced 138 horsepower and 126 pound-feet of torque. Transmission choices were a standard five-speed manual transmission or an optional four-speed automatic.

In reviews, we remarked on the Astra's well-designed, high-quality interior, which was full of soft plastics and tasteful accents. Chrome-ringed dials and piano-black finishes created a more upscale atmosphere than the typical economy car interior, despite the sometimes unfamiliar European controls. On the road, we noted that the Astra's European suspension tuning and quick, weighty steering made it fun to drive. The powertrain was a lowlight, however acceleration was tepid and cacophonous, and each transmission could have used another gear.

User Reviews:

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  Great car - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Glenn - July 21 - 9:20 am

  I picked this car over a Honda Fit after Saturn came down to 15000 on a 19,000 car (1000 dealer cash back + 1000 GM credit card discount + 2000 red tag discount). Ive had it for a month now and I really enjoy it. Ive always thought that GM and Ford make excellent cars only refuse to sell them here. Well this is the exact same car as the Opel Astra and its built in Belgium. Its not Euro car thats redressed and made it fulfill what Americans want.

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  Great value, fun to drive - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Laurie - May 20 - 8:36 pm

  I have had a lot of fun driving this car on the freeway and on back roads. It looks great, inside and out, and the manual transmission is peppy and responsive.

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  A Saturn? - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By McCloud - May 13 - 4:36 am

  Initial reactions from my friends is usually "This is a Saturn?" This car really impresses with its combination of style, build quality, european flavor, standard equipment, handling, and value. It handles like a dream, sharp and secure. The steering wheel is thick and grippy and the feedback is really excellent. The interior quality excells with soft-touch materials and the seats are well-bolstered. The 5-speed shifter is precise but a bit notchy. The clutch is just about right. The engine is peppy and rev-happy but the car is not a rocket. Overall, this is a practical and economical drivers car with european driving characteristics. Give it a try!!

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  My first Saturn - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Melissa - March 27 - 8:40 am

  You cannot truly appreciate this car until you drive it. I had previously owned an 07 Pontiac Vibe and my lease was almost up. I was only going to the Saturn dealership to get ideas on what to buy next and fell in love with the Astra! My fiancee and I returned to the dealership hours later after going to look at the new Vibe for comparison, not caring for the new model year upgrades on it. This is a fun car to drive! This car hugs the road and is super quiet inside even on rougher roads. Im looking forward to warmer temperatures in Pittsburgh so I can use my oversized sunroof!

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  Truly, a Good Car - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Mark S. - February 17 - 10:46 am

  I purchased this car new as a replacement for my 2004 MINI Cooper, and I havent looked back! This car is just a blast to drive, and it behaves almost exactly like my MINI did on the road (the MINI had a bit better steering feel). It handles incredibly well, brakes are powerful, and it has decent fuel economy. Acceleration is a bit lacking, but the 138-horsepower is more than sufficient for capable cruising at highway speeds. Im a big fella (62", 300 lbs) and I am not wanting for space inside. The rear cargo area will swallow a weeks worth of groceries without needing to fold down the rear seats.

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  1,000 Mile Update - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Joseph Astra - February 14 - 3:03 am

  The good - I consistently get 35 to 36 mpg in a mix of city and highway driving. The car is as tight as a car can be. No squeaks, no rattles and a nice kerthunk when you close the doors. When you own an Astra, you are driving a very exclusive car. Not too many on the road as of yet. This car handles like a sports car. Positive comments from everyone who sees it. I like the utility the hatchback provides. The onboard computer is excellent. The rain sensing wipers are great. The leather seats are very comfortable and supportive. The upgraded stereo

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  Saturn Astra 4dr Great Car - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Judicious - February 7 - 12:23 am

  So far I have had the car for 2 years. It works great. No major issues yet. Fuel mileage is good could be better in the city but very nice on the highway. Car feels great while cornering. Suspension is not too soft but yet handles bumps well. The best hatchback GM ever sold in north America and wish they kept bringing them over.

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  Doing great at 6,000 miles - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Terri - January 14 - 8:03 am

  This is the first new car I have ever owned, and I am more than impressed with it. It is fun to drive, and has the aura of a much higher priced car about it. The gas mileage has also been good (30 overall and close to 40 on the highway). The only thing I would change is the cupholder in the center console. It is very awkward to reach so far back to retrieve a drink from the drivers seat.

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  Stylish and Practical - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By salsa xr3 - January 11 - 7:50 am

  My Saturn Astra has been a surprising treat for me. It has all I need in transportation at this point in my life. Stylish and economical (34mpg on the road) 27 around town with the 4 speed automatic on regular gas. I have the leather interior option and the CD40 Opera cd/radio with on board computer that makes keeping track of that fuel mileage a breeze. It is solid to drive, brakes are fantastic, firm and sure. Holds four easily and comfortably. Another surprise very little wind noise, even with the windows down. I chose the 3 door because of the length of the doors. I am 64" and have plenty of leg and head room. A/c is standard and effective. I look forward to many happy miles.