The Astra is designed and built in Europe. It has agile handling, limited body lean and quick and direct steering. The 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine is not very powerful, but it is relatively refined. Overall fuel economy of 25 mpg is not stellar. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a four-speed automatic available as an option. The ride is supple and controlled, making the Astra feel as solid as more expensive sports sedans. Interior fit and finish is impressive, but many of the controls are ill-placed, cryptic and difficult to use. The front seats are comfortable but the rear bench seat is too low. Electronic stability control is standard on the two-door models but optional on the four-door versions.