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:

• 

  Best Small Car Hands Down - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By redbaron08 - July 5 - 12:46 pm

  I absolutely love this car. I test drove and researched a lot of cars in this class, but kept coming back to the Astra. Top selling point for me were the way the doors closed. The car is so well built it feels like a Mercedes or BMW. I took it on a 2000 mile road trip after leaving the dealership and fell more in love with it as each mile passed. Every time I drive it is a joy. The gas mileage has been 29 mpg combined with well over 30 on the highways. I love the fact that I dont feel like I am driving a small car. When I was shopping the Mazda 3 came in second place in my list of cars, and though the Astra was a little more expensive, it had a better warranty and more safety features.

• 

  Nothing else compares - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By dzajic - June 5 - 2:10 am

  A great car for an amazing price. The competition (Honda Fit, Mazda 3, VW Rabbit) dont come close. Look what the Fit (closest competitor) is missing: seat height adj, sunroof, rain-sensing wipers, integrated roof rack mounting points, stability/traction control (without navigation), 17" wheels (225 vs 185 wide tires), high quality interior, rear map lights, vanity lights, heated mirrors, express down windows (all doors), 4-wheel disc brakes, OnStar system, 5 years Roadside Assist. rigid rear cargo cover, 6 disc changer, dual trip/fuel economy meters, pedal release system, 4% heavier but 18% more hp/torque, max torque at lower rpm (3800 vs 4800)

• 

  Making Great Even Better - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Liz In Louisiana - May 20 - 2:00 pm

  Discovering this car was a "what is it?" process. I had driven the Mini & a number of other smaller cars; all disappointments. One day the hubster & I saw the Astra and were immediately taken w/its European good looks & sporty flair. The test drive was remarkably fun; this little vehicle handles like a rally car around tight corners. I purchased the 5-speed to up the fun factor even higher & got every option it comes with (everything under the sun + car for $20,300) and Im glad I did. The opera audio system sounds expensive, the 17-alloy wheels really improve the looks and the steering wheel audio controls are nicenicenice. The Astra is an example of GM doing something right!

• 

  Shifting made fun - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By liles65 - April 26 - 11:16 pm

  Saturn has made shifting fun again with the Astra and despite the small 1.8L engine this car has a surprising amount of pep. I got the basic XE model with 5 speed manual because I went for price versus luxury items. The base model comes with standard equipment like cruise control which you would have to pay extra on other brands. The seats are very comfortable and there is plenty of torque to push you back into your seat. All your controls are literally at your fingertips and there is very limited outside noise. The stock Goodyear Eagles grip the road and provide a surprisingly smooth and quiet ride. Plenty of room for the average driver and good views all around.

• 

  Finally, an entry level European car! - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By bone151 - March 14 - 2:30 pm

  I still dont understand why Ford and GM refuse to import, or even transplant, great cars that they sell in the rest of the world. If they sell them, we will buy them. If youre looking for a vehicle similar to the Ion/Cavalier/Cimarron, goes elsewhere, you wont like the Astra. Guaranteed. The Astra is an choice over a Golf/Rabbit; build quality is better; fittings and performance are similar. I decided on the Astra over another Golf due to its manufacture location. Where else can you find an affordable, true European auto stateside?

• 

  GMs best-kept secret - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Judeatb - February 17 - 9:46 pm

  My 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

• 

  My new ride! - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Kevboy - January 19 - 5:06 am

  I 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!

• 

  Why doesnt GM advertise this car? - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Jane - December 10 - 1:06 am

  Ive 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.

• 

  Dog loved it - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By Dan - September 4 - 11:10 am

  In 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.

• 

  Over 2 Months and Honeymoons not Over - 2008 Saturn Astra
  By jbta - July 19 - 9:53 pm

  I 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.