Used Vauxhall Astra (Mk7, 2015-2022) review and buyer’s guide

That car was so good that when Vauxhall replaced it in 2015, it was with a model that didn’t look a lot different, arguably because it didn’t have to. But how does the seventh-generation iteration stack up on its own, and should you buy a used one?

History

The Mk7 Astra, or Astra K, arrived in UK showrooms in October 2015, priced from £15,295. The range consisted of 99bhp 1.4, 104bhp 1.0T, 124bhp and 148bhp 1.4T, and 197bhp 1.6T petrol engines; all of these were turbocharged, except the 99bhp unit. A 1.6 CDTi diesel motor with 109, 134 or 158bhp was also offered.

Initially the car came only as a five-door hatchback, but by March 2016 there was a five-door estate, called the Sports Tourer, with the same engines and trims as the hatch. From April 2018 a new range-topping Ultimate trim was offered only on the hatch.

A facelifted Astra arrived in September 2019 with aerodynamic improvements to improve fuel economy, a nine-speed automatic gearbox, upgraded engines and extra driver-assistance systems. The Mk8 Vauxhall Astra arrived in 2022 to replace this car. 

Which one should I buy?

All of the engines, gearboxes and trims are decent enough, but the non-turbo 1.4 feels weak compared with the alternatives. Entry-level Design trim gets 16-inch alloys, air-con, cruise control, electrically adjustable, heated door mirrors, all-round electric windows and a seven-inch touchscreen with Bluetooth.

Each trim adds to that list, with Tech Line also featuring upgraded infotainment with nav, while Energy has 17-inch wheels, plus heated front seats and steering wheel. SRi has sports seats, 17-inch rims, auto lights and wipers, plus extra safety systems. The Elite has leather, heated rear seats, dual-zone climate control, and nav on Elite Nav trim. Ultimate adds LED headlights, 18-inch wheels and further safety systems.

Alternatives to the Vauxhall Astra

The Ford Focus is at the top of this segment in terms of sales; with a wide model range, keen prices and superb dynamics, it’s hard to beat. But VW’s Golf gives the Ford a run for its money due to excellent engines, a classy cabin, hi-tech equipment and refinement.