While we can't deny the style and appeal of the hatchback Astra, there's always been a gaping hole in the range since Opel stopped producing a booted version. Ireland's rather fond of its three-box saloons and without such a model on offer Opel's market share has inevitably suffered. Fortunately, emerging markets such as China and Eastern Europe are also fond of big booties and, now that the Astra is also being sold in America, the timing is finally right for GM to produces a booted Astra.Despite the three-box shape Astra being something of an afterthought, the styling is well resolved with neat proportions and sober detailing. Our Design model is well appointed, too, with 16-inch alloy wheels; half-leather seats; automatic lights and wipers; air conditioning and cruise control, while rear passengers get fancy one-touch electric windows and a centre armrest too. Sadly, the armrest is secured using a strip of Velcro, which smacks of penny-pinching, while I also notice there’s no exterior release on the boot-lid so you either have to hold the unlock button on the key fob down for three seconds or reach inside and push the dash-mounted switch, neither of which is very convenient.At least the Astra's boot is vast, offering a full 490 litres of space with a large opening and folding seatbacks, although again there are signs of corner cutting with the seat release buttons being located inside the cabin as opposed to hidden away in the boot for extra security.
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