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2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

3dr HB XR

Starting at $12,000 | Starting at 24 MPG City - 32 MPG Highway

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2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

Summary

Provided by NADAguides.com

The 2008 Saturn Astra comes in two trim levels � the XE and the XR � with either three or five doors. The Astra is a compact, low-profile, economical ride equipped with a 1.8-liter inline 4-cylinder engine, FWD and a 5-speed manual transmission, along with alloy wheels and passenger capacity for up to five. Comfort and convenience features include air conditioning, cruise control, power steering, windows, mirrors and locks, heated lumbar seats and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Safety features include ABS brakes and front/side-head/side-body airbags.

Benefits of Driving a 2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

Because of its European design and engineering, the 2008 Saturn Astra is one of the most distinctive small cars offered in the U.S. market, inside and out. Fuel economy should be a strength when compared to most other vehicles in its class, and the top XR three-door looks poised to resonate with the go-fast small-car crowd. All Astras are extremely well-equipped with standard items that are most often found on the options list at this price range.

What's new for 2008?

The European-flavored Astra is a new hatchback in the Saturn lineup for 2008. It is based on the Euro-market Opel of the same name and replaces the now-discontinued Ion sedan and coupe models.

Model Strengths

  • Stylish inside and out
  • assured handling
  • fuel efficiency.

Model Review

The 2008 Saturn Astra is offered in two hatchback body styles--three-door and five-door. Both have a 138-horsepower, 1.8L Ecotec four-cylinder engine underhood, paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission. The engine has continuously variable valve timing, which helps make it both more responsive and efficient.

Printable Version

2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

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Flash Drive: 2008 Saturn Astra XR

Source: MSN Autos

Saturn's new Astra is a direct import from Opel, GM's European division. Our bright red XR 5-door with 17-inch aluminum wheels is a practical compact wrapped in a great-looking package. The 138-horsepower 1.8-liter Ecotec engine provides adequate power when combined with a 5-speed manual, and I managed close to 25 mpg around town. Developed in Germany for the European market, the chassis and suspension feel solid for this price range, starting at $17,545 for the XR 5-door. But I also found some unwanted complexity with both the turn-signal and wiper controls, requiring a number of attempts before getting the results I wanted. The audio system was also confusing and difficult to master compared to the systems offered in other GM products. I did appreciate the tilt and telescoping steering column, the 3-spoke sport wheel and the optional large dual-panel sunroof. - Mike Meredith

When I first saw the bright red hatchback with its big alloy wheels, panoramic roof and pleasing lines, I thought GM had made an excellent decision converting this European Opel to a Saturn. But then I drove it. There is very little low-end torque, so it always seems to start out with a shudder. The shifter for the 5-speed transmission felt a bit notchy, and handling was nothing to write home about. But after spending a few days in the Astra, I got used to the low torque. The interior is roomy, with plenty of space in the back seat as well as the cargo area. But what really won me over was averaging 28 mpg. These days, good fuel economy can trump just about any minor complaint. - Perry Stern

The Astra adds to an improving lineup of stylish cars from Saturn. It may remind some of the Mazda3, but it's not as sporty and not quite as long. The sculpted headlights and twin-spoke wheels complement the overall looks. One of my favorite features is the large two-panel sunroof. As good as the Astra may look, the engine feels anemic, the handling is subpar (especially for such a small car), the rear seats are cramped for anyone over 5 feet tall and it takes a while to get used to the European interior design. Although the Astra looks good on the outside, it needs more work on the inside. - Johnny Pak
Printable Version

2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

Safety Features & Equipment

Braking & Traction

4-Wheel ABS Std
Traction/Stability Control Std
Tire Pressure Monitoring System Std

Passenger Restraint

Driver Air Bag Std
Passenger Air Bag Std
Side Air Bag Std
Side Head Air Bag Std
Rear Body Side Air Bag Std
Rear Head side Air Bag Std

Road Visibility

Daytime Running Lights Std
Fog Lamps Std
Intermittent Wipers Std
Variable Inter. Wipers Std
Rain Sensing Wipers Std

Security

Anti-theft System Std
Telematics Opt
Printable Version

2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

Original Warranty  help
Original Warranty
An original warranty is the warranty associated with a vehicle when it is brand new. In addition to the original warranty, select items, like tires, are typically covered by respective manufacturers. Also, an act of Federal law sometimes provides protection for certain components, like emissions equipment.
The original warranty is often broken down into multiple sections, including:
Basic Warranty:
Typically covers everything except for parts that wear out through normal use of the vehicle. Examples of non-covered items are brake pads, wiper blades and filters.
Drivetrain Warranty:
This warranty covers items the basic warranty does not protect. Wear and tear items such as hoses will not be covered, but key items like the engine, transmission, drive axles and driveshaft often will be.
Roadside Assistance:
The level of service differs greatly with this warranty, but many manufacturers offer a toll-free number that helps provide assistance in case you run out of gas, get a flat tire or lock your keys in the car.
Corrosion Warranty:
This warranty focuses on protecting you from holes caused by rust or corrosion in your vehicle's sheet metal.
Please check the owner's manual, visit a local dealership or look at the manufacturer's website to learn more about the specifics of the warranties that apply to a vehicle.

Miles

Months
Basic 36,000 36
Drivetrain 100,000 60
Corrosion 36,000 72
Roadside Assistance 100,000 60

Saturn Certified Pre-Owned Warranty  help
Certified Pre-Owned Warranty
To be eligible for Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) status, vehicles generally must be recent models with relatively low mileage. CPO vehicles must also pass a detailed inspection, outlined by the manufacturer, which is measured by the number of inspected points.
Warranty coverage can vary from one manufacturer to the next. While most certified pre-owned programs transfer and extend the existing new car warranty terms, others offer a warranty that simply represents an additional year and mileage value. Always check with the manufacturer for the specific warranties they offer.
Common features and benefits of Certified Pre-Owned warranties include:
Age/Mileage Eligibility
To even be considered for certification, a car must be a recent model year and have limited mileage. The exact requirements are established by individual manufacturers.
Lease Term Certified
Some manufacturers offer certified pre-owned cars for lease. The length of the lease is often shorter than a new car lease, but it will cost you less.
Point Inspection
These inspections entail a comprehensive vehicle test to ensure that all parts are in excellent working order. The point inspection list is simply a numbered list of exactly what parts of the car are examined. While many inspections range from a 70- to 150-point checklist, most are very similar and are performed using strict guidelines. Ask your local dealer about specific details.
Return/Exchange Program
Some manufacturers offer a very limited return or exchange period. Find out if you will get the sales tax and licensing/registration fees back should you return or exchange the car.
Roadside Assistance
Most certified pre-owned programs offer free roadside service in case your car breaks down while still under warranty.
Special Financing
Reduced-rate loans are available through many certified pre-owned programs. Manufacturer-backed inspections and warranties help eliminate the risks involved with buying pre-owned, so buyers who qualify can take advantage of the great offers.
Transferable Warranty
When a new car warranty transfers with the certification of the car and remains eligible for the next owner, it is known as a transferable warranty. Once the original transferable warranty expires, an extended warranty takes effect.
Warranty Deductible
This is the amount for which you are responsible when repair work is performed under the warranty. Some manufacturers require a deductible while others don't, so always ask.
2-year/30,000-mile1 CPO Vehicle Maintenance Plan. 1Whichever comes first. See participating dealer for details.
12-month/12,000-mile2 Bumper-to-Bumper Warranty. 2Whichever comes first from date of purchase. See participating dealer for limited warranty details.
5-year/100,000-mile3 Powertrain Limited Warranty. 3Whichever comes first from original in-service date. See participating dealer for limited warranty details.
Age/Mileage Eligibility 2006-2011 model year / Under 75,000 miles
Lease Term Certified No
Point Inspection 172-Point Vehicle Inspection and Reconditioning
Download checklist
Return/Exchange Program 3-Day 150-Mile Satisfaction Guarantee
Roadside Assistance Yes
Transferrable Warranty Yes
Warranty Deductible $0

Learn more about certified pre-owned vehicles

Printable Version

2008 Saturn Astra Hatchback

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Data on this page may have come in part, or entirely, from one or more of the following providers.

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