The VAUXHALL ASTRA (2004-11) 5DR HATCHBACK 1.8I 16V ACTIVE AUTO is a five-door petrol family hatchback in the UK’s mainstream used-car market. Its automatic transmission gives easy-going appeal, while its practical shape and familiar controls make it an alternative to rivals such as the Ford Focus and Volkswagen Golf. In mycarcheck.com checks, this version has 32 look-ups covering 23 different cars, a useful snapshot rather than a full-market survey. Recorded examples average 89,000 miles and 4,000 miles a year; the average private-sale valuation is £700. Cars checked had about four previous keepers, so condition and history deserve close attention. It can suit commuters wanting an automatic, small families needing rear doors and a useful boot, or drivers seeking affordable, uncomplicated transport. The 1.8-litre engine offers more relaxed performance than small-engine hatchbacks, though fuel costs may exceed those of smaller rivals. A service record matters especially on an older example.