2008 Saturn Astra Reviews, Pricing & Specs
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GM continues to hunt for a successful global car. For 2008, it will make another attempt by rebadging Opel's Astra as the Saturn Astra. Widely acclaimed on its 2004 European release, the Opel version has been the top-selling hatchback in Europe. It will reach our shores as GM's Christmas present for this year.
Two basic models will be offered, a three-door hatchback (XR Coupe) and a five-door hatchback (XE and XR). The basic 1.8-liter DOHC Ecotec four-cylinder iron-block engine, which includes variable valve timing and produces 140 hp at 6,300 rpm on regular gas, powers both models. Two transmissions are available, a five-speed manual or an optional four-speed automatic. Yet, in this same class, the VW Rabbit packs a 2.5-liter, 170-hp four cylinder backed by a five-speed manual or six-speed automatic. There are no performance figures for the Saturn Astra yet. Fuel economy is projected to be 21-23 mpg city and 30-32 mpg highway.
Reviewers who've driven the Astra report good handling, body control, high-speed stability, and steering precision, in spite of a basic torsion-beam rear suspension. The electro-hydraulic steering unit is nicely weighted and quick, although in a European test drive, reviewers felt the car could use a sixth gear because it was geared "too short." 80 mph equals 4,000 rpm, at which point the engine's noise saturates the passenger compartment.
The Astra interiors are nicely done up in sleek black and faux-aluminum finish, with "old fashioned" large stereo and temperature control knobs and easy-to-read large gauges. Leather is available on the XR trim, which includes lumbar support and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. All models have 60/40 split-folding rear seats, but cargo volume is less than expected, with the five-door offering a rear-seats-folded maximum of 44.7 cubic feet (the smaller Nissan Versa offers 50 cubic feet) and the coupe offering 37.8 cubic feet.
The standard safety equipment list is an impressive result of Opel's emphasis on safety: stability and traction control, OnStar, four-wheel disc brakes with ABS, dual-stage front airbags, seat-mounted front side-impact airbags, head curtain side airbags, a breakaway pedal-release system, front-seat active head restraints, a tire pressure monitoring system, and daytime running lamps.
Published Aug 8, 2022 by CarGurus Editorial Team
User reviews for 2008 Saturn Astra
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by Tamera L
Mar 12, 2024
I like what I can see of the size and condition of this car. It appears to be clean inside and well cared for.
The price range seems doable for my budget right now and the mileage wasnt too high. Mar 12, 2024
by Gwendolyn B
Sep 05, 2021
I currently have over 180,000 miles on my astra. It’s a unique car and I trust a mechanic that is familiar with German cars since this car was made in Belgium with a combination of GM and Opel parts. It drives like a European car so if you prefer the GM driving experience this is not the car for you. I have experienced serpentine belt issues and the oxygen sensor issues but with routine maintenance this car has performed well. There is a problem with the passenger front door and rusting due to a poor seal? My paint on the top of the car is fading..Sep 05, 2021
by Anonymous
May 07, 2021
Car was comfortable.. unfortunately the serpitine belt broke as I was test driving itMay 07, 2021
User rating:
by Tamera L
Mar 12, 2024
I like what I can see of the size and condition of this car. It appears to be clean inside and well cared for.
The price range seems doable for my budget right now and the mileage wasnt too high. Mar 12, 2024
by Gwendolyn B
Sep 05, 2021
I currently have over 180,000 miles on my astra. It’s a unique car and I trust a mechanic that is familiar with German cars since this car was made in Belgium with a combination of GM and Opel parts. It drives like a European car so if you prefer the GM driving experience this is not the car for you. I have experienced serpentine belt issues and the oxygen sensor issues but with routine maintenance this car has performed well. There is a problem with the passenger front door and rusting due to a poor seal? My paint on the top of the car is fading..Sep 05, 2021
by Anonymous
May 07, 2021
Car was comfortable.. unfortunately the serpitine belt broke as I was test driving itMay 07, 2021
by James W
Jan 14, 2021
I think it was far expected ahead of its time for the year it was built. Its too bad that GM shuttered the Saturn Division at the close of the 2008 model year.Jan 14, 2021
by Jay Z
Dec 09, 2020
Handles like a little sports car. A European GM Opel in disguise as a Saturn. Some quirky controls but these can now be had at a great price.Dec 09, 2020
by Anonymous
Nov 27, 2020
The Astra is a relatively unknown model in the US, engineered in Germany and built in the mid-2000s by Opel in Belgium. While it lacks the acceleration of the VW GTI from the same model years, the Astra combines superior handling, excellent brakes and a body style that has weathered well over the years. Astras have a good reputation for longevity when reasonably maintained. The body structure is stiff and durable, and if kept reasonably clean, does not generally show signs of rust. The Astra was subject to the drivers airbag recall from several years back, and any car being considered should be checked for the update. Due to the relative obscurity of this model in the US, however, some replacement parts are beginning to become challenging to find., although those that are available are generally reasonably-priced. The Astra is a stylish, reliable alternative for someone looking for a unique, fun-to-drive car at a moderate price.Nov 27, 2020
by Anonymous
Feb 21, 2015
This car is spunky and quick. Multi-media centers offers Bluetooth, and a great sound system. Very sleek little car, perfect for a young driver. Small compact little car can whip into any parking space and has great get up and go. The hatchback does offer more cargo space.Feb 21, 2015
by Anonymous
Apr 30, 2014
Great looking car with awesome gas mileage and some really nice features. The backseat is not very conducive for a family and the engine is only a 1.8 liter, so there is not a huge amount of power. Overall, a great car for the first-time driver, college student or one with a long work commute.Apr 30, 2014
by Kevin F
Mar 01, 2014
I owned this car for 5 1/2 years. My daughter drove it for two years in the middle.
It was not fully safety rated when I bought it, but it had side curtain airbags front and rear and I wanted a car that would protect my daughter / her passengers / my younger son - whoever was in back. Front crash safety is rated better than the back, but back is better than 99% of 2008 cars sold in US.
Son of Mr. Goodwrench teacher, I bought the car due to discounts and that I wanted to buy a GM - if it was reliable. In Europe, these are sold as OPEL / VAUXHALL in droves, and compete with Civics and Corollas and VW well. It delivered in spades - we had ONE maintenance issue which took awhile to fix with a fuel sending unit - the second attempt was bungled and it took several tries for Saturn around the world to figure that out. NO other issues. Relatives had a stick coupe and it was more fun than the automatic for sure.
This is a solid car with a definite European feel to it. Heated outside mirrors, good sound insulation, tough interior. NOT a throw away car. Mileage with automatic was around 27 mpg with a short commute and lots of highway over 63000 miles. Highest mpg ever on a trip? I remember one was 38, 500 miles with mostly highway, per the trip info center, not just me guessing.
Handling and grip were very good from the start - I live in moderate snow winter mid Ohio. There is a winter start setting on the automatic which helps you get started in 3rd i think, which I rarely remembered to use - didn't need it. Stock Eagle LS2 tires are poorly rated compared to many on market but did last almost 50,000 miles. Replaced mine with General Altimax RT 43's which have been excellent and were highly recommended on Tire Rack. Cornering is a breeze, I never felt this car say to me I'm going too fast and that curve is too tight. And I do like to push limits...
The radio / info system / maintenance indicator. (I have the lower level radio of the two which are very similar.) OMG. If you are just turning on the radio and saving stations or playing the CD, good to go. Adjusting the time is a pain. Resetting the maintenance miles (mostly an oil change thing) is insanely difficult, mechanics at Saturn had trouble doing it. It does have several nice features, trip odo's, mileage RIGHT NOW, mileage this trip, miles in tank at this rate (very helpful), temp, etc. Overall you hope to get it where you want it and to be able to leave it alone!
I was able to load almost anything in this car, including things that I did not want to put in my wife's nicer / spotless vehicles (Santa Fe and XC60) - or could not get in them. Regularly loaded 20 2x4s and whatever else I wanted from hardware stores. Drop seat half, push front seat forward, take head rest off front, throw blanket over seat, load it up.
Rarely used both seats down, but that adds some space as well.
I took several long trips, and seats always outperformed my 2006 Honda Civic.
Interior is dark, which makes finding dark things you've dropped on the floor interesting at night.
Overall, if I knew then what I know now, I would have bought three of these and given one to both kids and kept one for me!Mar 01, 2014
by Zach D
Apr 01, 2012
Performance- needs aftermarket tuning to really have any power, stock only
provides 140 hp. Manual gearbox can be notchy, and clutch could have more
feel and weight. Brakes work just fine for stopping quick driving, excellent
handling but use good tires to do away with some understeer.
Build quality - mechanic parts work perfectly, most of interior is also good, but
some plastic parts are poorly done
Appearance - Unique, cool hot hatch design, esp in black with 18 in wheels and
low-pro tires.
Fun Factor- With more power and a 6 speed gearbox, this car would be an
absolute joy to drive. Until then, it is quite easy to enjoy technical driving with
quick steering response.Apr 01, 2012
by Anonymous
Jan 08, 2012
Great little car that's fun to drive. Solid build quality and safe. Upscale interior compared to Kia, Hyundai and the Japanese cars. OnStar is awesome. Reliability has been great. Gas and go and oil changes were the only expenses. I wish Saturn still made cars.Jan 08, 2012
by Chad W
Oct 19, 2011
The acceleration is decent for a economic car. The brakes are very smooth. The handling is amazing, I love taking turns very fast. Overall for the build quality it's been great, i've had it for only 6 months but so far I haven't had any problems. Both the exterior and interior are amazing. The exterior is a unique style that isn't seen very often and my favorite part about it is the panoramic sunroof. The interior is very interesting, its a Black cloth interior with and light grey pillars and roof. The gas milage is awesome 28/32 mpg. Out of every car I have driven, this one is my favorite. I have driven 1995 Dodge Neon, 2006 Nissan Maxima, 2010 Nissan Altima and a 2001 Chevy Tahoe and none of them compare to this car.Oct 19, 2011
by Valerie C
Oct 18, 2011
c rien a comparer a mon ancienne auto. Celle-ci a de la gueule au moins. Le style sort plus du lot et j'aime tout les renseigmenet que la console centrale peut nous donner. mais je dois tout de meme avoir un cour 101 sur ma radioOct 18, 2011
by Derrick K
Apr 07, 2010
Fuel Efficient yet willing to gain to higher speeds then expected.
1.8L I-4 - 138hp
Auto has a 'Neutral Assist' Feature that puts the transmission into Neutral during extended braking periods. Reason: To save on fuel and slightly decrease brake pad wear...slightly
Takes the corners very smooth and confident, every little bump and road flaw is felt for superior driver feel and is easy to correct and maneuver.
Needs an auxiliary plug for ipods and mp3 players.
Very Fun to drive! Cannot wait to Drive it again.Apr 07, 2010
by John J
Oct 20, 2009
Great car solid ride well laid out interior
Gas mileage is amazing
This car is fun to drive 17 in rims lowered suspension the
breaks are strong no fade ,it handles like its on rails .
It's down a bit on power only 138 hp from the 1.8l power plantOct 20, 2009
by Molly M
Sep 05, 2009
Could be a bit more powerful (138 hp in a 1.5 ton hatch.) Handling is excellent. Solid build quality. Love the looks. Gas mileage has been pretty average. Only approx. 27 mpg with mixed driving (city and highway.) Overall, I couldn't be happier. I love this car.Sep 05, 2009
by Jim D
Jun 18, 2009
Handles great, utility of a hatchback, looks good (a lot people ask "that's a Saturn?"), small but not too small, not the most powerful engine but the handling makes it a fun drive and gets very good gas mileage (at 9,500 miles now, my lowest mileage on a tank was 29.7, average around 32 mpg).
Not a top notch interior, it's simple but functional. No aux jack and no front cupholders are the usual complaints, but it doesn't bother me. Good on-board computer setup despite 80's style screen.
Jun 18, 2009
by Ed W
May 28, 2009
Great Car.
Performance- Acceleration very good for engine size. Braking- Very Good. Handling- Excellent.
Build Quality- Bit of road noise. Otherwise very solid.
Appearance- Well done.
Cost of Ownership- Gas 28-32 MPH. New- No maintenace issues.
Fun Factor- Yes. Responsive and Nimble.May 28, 2009
by Parker M
Apr 18, 2009
The new 2008 Saturn Astra is a great car for the average guy or gal that whats something sporty yet fuel effecient. The car has a solid chassis, and stiff suspension but lacks power to match. The tiny 1.8L Ecotec just doesn't have enough fun factor. Now, if we in North America could get the 2.0L turbo from the Opel Astra in europe, this car would be fantastic for the average low budget tuner.Apr 18, 2009
by Jude B
Mar 04, 2009
My first new car is economical, fun to drive, well-built, and Euro-stylish. I absolutely love it. While the lack of easily accessible cupholders and an Mp3 jack would have been nice, this car is awesome, and I thoroughly enjoy every time I'm behind the wheel.Mar 04, 2009
by Mohamed S
Jan 22, 2009
Top Speed: 225 km/h
Acceleration 0-100 12 sec
Handling very good in corners
Build Quality: it doesnt need repairs no squeaks or rattles wat so ever
Appearance:
interior 4/5
exterior 5/5
cost of ownership:
Millage 9700 km
Maintenance perfect
Fun Factor: click on the sport button and enjoy life in fast forward mode.
I would recommend it to a friend obviously (if he/she will treat it right)
Jan 22, 2009
by Brent U
Aug 05, 2008
While it is not the fastest car I have ever owned
(1982 Ford Mustang 5.0 H.O.) the performance is
good. The tight suspension makes cornering a
breeze. the snug fitting seats, and Tilt/ telescopic
wheel make it very easy to find a comfortable
driving position.
This European built car has alot of small details
that add up to a well thought out car..Express down
windows (can be opened with the RKE) , trip
computer, 6 standard air bags, 7 speaker stereo
with CD. Onstar is great, and the "Safe and Sound"
package is free for the first year.
I now drive, even when I have no place to go!
Aug 05, 2008
by David U
Aug 02, 2008
This is an excellent car it handles the road like it is on railes and it's unique sporty looking body allows you to show off...but yet like every other car it has it's ups and it's downs one of the downs is putting in a car seat i mean sure a 2 door is more sporty looking but really do you know how hard it is to get a car seat in and out every week!!! :( Sure it is a great car but with it you must remember that there is no such thing YET as a PEFECT car!Aug 02, 2008
by Aron B
Jul 21, 2008
it handles great. though there are some downfalls, the car is very solid.
i wish that GM would have brought over more of the other engines though.
the cost to own this car has yet to be detirmined.
the care is a blast to drive because of how well it handles in the tight corners.Jul 21, 2008
by Anonymous
May 11, 2008
Great little carMay 11, 2008
by Mike H
May 06, 2008
I love the sport suspension option; its real tight and corners great.May 06, 2008
by Ryan H
May 05, 2008
I love the way the car looks. The leather is a little stiff, hopefully it will soften up as I put more mileage on it. The factory 18" make a massive difference. The acceleration on the car is borderline pathetic, especially for a car that looks this fast. The handling is another story; sticky rubber, firm suspension settings and a wide track make it corner with no fuss and no drama. May 05, 2008
by Rodney H
Mar 29, 2008
very cool car, I read the USA has a turbo version with 260hp, i wish that model would have come to canada i would've bought it. Yes it is a fun car to drive cause it has no body roll, so i can go around tight corners and not slow down. I've slid all 4 tires around corners from cornering so hard and with no body roll, it's awesome.Mar 29, 2008
What users have asked
Saturn Astra P1101
We replaced the MAF, air filter, disconnect battery, replaced fuze & had computer reset & eng light keeps coming on.
2227 views
my son has a saturn 2008 astra the car runs rough then white smoke out tailpipe it is using oil
the car runs as if it is missing then will lose power, he will put peddle to the floor then we get white smoke out the tail pipe, as a note we have changes the spark plugs, it will use oil 1 qt per month
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Have you driven a 2008 Saturn Astra?Compare this car
2008 Saturn Astra Pricing
Original MSRP
$15,875 to $18,375Price range
N/AAverage price on CG
N/AYoY price change
N/ATrims & specs
Air Conditioning
Air conditioning delete: heater only
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Front side curtain airbags
Audio System
Single disc in-Dash CD · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 6
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.1 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.4 · Rear brake width: 0.4 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: metallic · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front
Convenience Features
Assist handle: rear · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Storage: front seatback · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Manual adjustments: 4
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.94
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust tip color: alloy · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Number of rear headrests: 3
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 2
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Safety
Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: front
Seatbelts
Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Spare Tire
Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Stability and Traction
Stability control: electronic
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: semi-independent · Rear Suspension Type: torsion bar · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
CD changer: 6 · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 7
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.1 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.4 · Rear brake width: 0.4 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: metallic · Door trim: alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: rear · Cupholders: rear · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: sunglasses holder · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Manual adjustments: 4
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.94
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust tip color: alloy · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Number of rear headrests: 3
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 2
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Roof
Sunroof: power glass
Safety
Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear
Seatbelts
Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: cloth
Spare Tire
Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Stability and Traction
Stability control: electronic
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: semi-independent · Rear Suspension Type: torsion bar · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Tires
Type: all season
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: intermittent
Air Conditioning
Single front air conditioning zones
Airbags
Dual front airbags · Passenger airbag deactivation: occupant sensing deactivation · Front side airbags · Rear side curtain airbags
Audio System
CD changer: 6 · Single disc in-Dash CD · MP3 player: CD MP3 Playback · AM/FM radio · Total Number of Speakers: 7
Brakes
ABS: 4-wheel · Front brake diameter: 12.1 · Front brake width: 1.0 · Front brakes: disc · Rear brake diameter: 10.4 · Rear brake width: 0.4 · Rear brakes: disc
Comfort Features
Center console trim: simulated alloy · Dash trim: metallic · Door trim: alloy · Floor Mat Material: carpet · Floor Mats: front · Steering wheel trim: leather
Convenience Features
Assist handle: front · Cupholders: front · Multi-function remote: keyless entry · One-touch windows: 2 · Power outlet(s): 12V · Reading lights: rear · Steering wheel: tilt and telescopic · Steering wheel mounted controls: audio · Storage: door pockets · Vanity mirrors: dual illuminating
Driver Seat
Adjustable lumbar support: manual · Manual adjustments: 4
Drivetrain
Axle ratio: 3.94
Exterior Features
Body side moldings: body-color · Door handle color: body-color · Exhaust tip color: alloy · Front bumper color: body-color · License plate bracket: front · Mirror color: body-color · Rear bumper color: body-color · Rear trunk/liftgate: liftgate
Headrests
Number of rear headrests: 3
Instrumentation
Warnings and reminders: low fuel level
Lights
Headlights: Auto on/off
Mirrors
Exterior mirrors: manual folding
Passenger Seat
Manual Adjustments: 2
Rear Seats
Type: 60-40 split bench
Safety
Child seat anchors: LATCH system · Crumple zones: rear
Seatbelts
Front seatbelts: 3-point · Seatbelt pretensioners: front · Second row seatbelts: 3-point
Seats
Driver seat manual adjustments: height · Front seat type: bucket · Heated: front seats · Upholstery: leather
Spare Tire
Size: temporary
Spare Wheel
Rim Type: steel
Suspension
Front Arm Type: lower control arms · Front Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Front Spring Type: coil springs · Front Suspension Classification: independent · Front Suspension Type: MacPherson struts · Rear Shock Type: gas shock absorbers · Rear Spring Type: coil springs · Rear Suspension Classification: semi-independent · Rear Suspension Type: torsion bar · Stabilizer bar(s): front
Tires
Type: performance
Tires and Rims
Wheels: alloy
Windows
Front wipers: rain sensing