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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GMs best-kept secret - 2008 Saturn Astra
By Judeatb - February 17 - 9:46 pmMy Astra XE is a comfortable, practical, spacious, and fun-to-drive compact. I paid less than $15k for it (with a/c), and am, so far, extremely satisfied. The car accelerates well, handles crisply, and gets exactly the mileage the EPA specifies from the get- go. My driving cycle is getting me 29- 30mpg combined. Everything, from the sound the doors make when closed, to the way the handbrake feels, to the materials used on the interior make this car feel like a solidly-built, quality product. Everyone loves the way it looks
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My new ride! - 2008 Saturn Astra
By Kevboy - January 19 - 5:06 amI have been waiting to purchase this car for about 6 months to see what other peoples reactions were. Everyone has overwhelmingly recommended it, so I just bought one. So far I love it! Black paint is stunning, leather interior beautifully stitched, performs incredibly. I am very satisfied!
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Why doesnt GM advertise this car? - 2008 Saturn Astra
By Jane - December 10 - 1:06 amIve been looking for a car that is fun to drive, great looking, fuel efficient and economical. I was considering VW, but wanted something else for comparison. So, I did an Internet search and up came a video review of hatchbacks that included the Saturn Astra XR2. After doing some more research on this vehicle, I headed off to the Saturn dealership where I bought one on the spot! This car is an absolute hoot to drive and causes pedestrians to do double-takes at its unique appearance. I cant believe GM doesnt do more to advertise this vehicle. Its a world-class small car that is available now, not in some future model year. Go check it out.
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Overall good car - 2008 Saturn Astra
By Wayne - November 1 - 10:00 amThere are definitely some pros and cons to this car. On the plus side, Ive never had mechanical problems, it has a great sunroof and very responsive steering. Its a reasonably comfortable ride although you might find it a little cramped. On the downside, lack of engine power. I dont think this thing could outrun a slushie truck going up a hill. The cupholders where you have to dislocate your arm to get your drink, the very tiny side mirrors, and the paint job wore off after only a few months. Now of course we also have to deal with lack of service, as there are only 2 dealers in my city who are authorized to work on Saturns.
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Dog loved it - 2008 Saturn Astra
By Dan - September 4 - 11:10 amIn a word "FUN", we go backpacking and this car is a perfect fit. The power had me scared at first because of the hills we drive, but the 1.8 had no problems going up to Lake Arrowhead today, but the best part was the handling...wow! This is not my grandmothers Saturn.
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Great idea, hope it is here to stay - 2008 Saturn Astra
By vksandsek - August 20 - 6:10 amThe car is a domesticated version of the Opel Astra, made in Belgium. The amenities are too many to list and most are found exclusively on much more expensive autos. I dont know of any other vehicle that you can get with every option in the book at MSRP of 21965, including leather seats, giant sunroof, 6-disc changer, 6 airbags, 4-wheel disk brakes with ABS, sport suspension, stabilitrak, traction control, alloy wheels, computer, remote locks, windows and mirrors, steering wheel controls, cargo cover, theft deterrent system, fog lamps and so many more. I hope Saturn perseveres with this car because it is the only vehicle by GM that has the potential to become a Honda and Toyota slayer.
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Over 2 Months and Honeymoons not Over - 2008 Saturn Astra
By jbta - July 19 - 9:53 pmI got a silver well-equipped coupe a few months ago and I love it. Still look back at it adoringly when I leave it in a parking lot. I drive sensibly and have averaged 30.8 mpg so far. The interior is very comfortable for me, and I like the unusual radio/temp controls (and you CAN make the display backlight stay black - under Settings and Day/Night). Not the most powerful car Ive driven but unless Im going up a mountain with the AC on I dont notice sluggishness. Wish I could plug in my iPod and I have yet to see how it handles in winter weather, but overall Im very, very pleased. Any car Id enjoy more would have left me broke.
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Great fun car - 2008 Saturn Astra
By Bryan - June 24 - 11:30 amLove it sporty and very different not many on road so make poeple ask what is it.
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Love my Astra - 2008 Saturn Astra
By DGW - May 19 - 7:03 amI was in the market for a car after keeping my Corolla for 14 years. I went to a Toyota Dealership to test drive the 2010 Matrix and Corolla, and they were good to drive. Went home to recheck my research and I read a review of the Astra on Edmunds.com and was intrigued. After having a bad experience with a Sales person at Toyota, I test drove the Astra and I am so glad I did. I love Saturns approach to sales, and the car is not what I expected. I can see why so many people rave about this car. Best part of my day is driving to and from work now!!
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Love my Astra! - 2008 Saturn Astra
By John - April 27 - 6:13 am"Thats a Saturn?" I have heard that ten times in the 1 week since I brought the car home. People look at it. It feels solid. It takes an adjustment to get used to at first, sure, but once you do it is a daily joy. I love this car, black sapphire with the leather and 18" wheels. It has its quirks, and my gas mileage seems to be locked at only 22mpg but still better than the 15 I was getting in my SUV. When all is said and done, I am glad that I bought it, totally on a whim I might add.
