The now long awaited Saturn Astra will finally be able to be purchased nationwide on the 2nd of January 2008.
Although rumors of the US market receiving the Astra began as soon as the current model was launched as a Vauxhall in Europe, General Motors still sought it fit to prolong the launch of its latest entry level, import fighter.
Buyers will find that the Astra will be offered in entry level XE guise in the 5-door only, with the sporty XR trim available to both the 3 and 5-door. A single 1.8 liter motor powers the range, with either a 4-speed auto or 5-speed stick next to it. Standard kit is generous as well.
For those that simply cannot wait to get their Astras, and need every little bit of imagery and info possible to satisfy their desires, check out the new Astra microsite.
Our take? GM?s latest import fighter blazes its own path; only 2 trim levels, and only 3 and 5 door hatchback body styles. One must wonder though, how will ultimately sell: the Vauxhall Astra hasn't exactly lit the fires of desire within European consumers, and the US market really is fickle. Perhaps a great dealer experiences and true uniqueness (relative to competitors) will be enough here to make the risk worth it.