GTC VXR do I or not??

[Stellartois]

Long story short, due to a family illness we've had to sell our F355 and Delta integrale Evo 2 to help ease pressure of things but we're getting to the point where I may be able to get something a bit tasty again. Not able to put a huge amount, notwithstanding the fact the price range I'm looking at isn't inconsiderable, into a new car I'm currently torn between a 2016 Renaultsport Megane Trophy with 50k miles on it or a 2013 Astra GTC VXR with 7k miles. Looks wise the Astra wins hands down, it's just beautiful, the Megane seems to have a big rear end that somewhat turns me off but as a driver's car probably wins the day. Interiors are close but the Astra probably edges it.
Just thought I'd try and get some honest opinions on ownership of the VXR from those best placed to know..
Thanks

[STEVE ST]

I purchased a brand new Astra GTC VXR in May 2014. I had originally ordered it in Arden blue, but after the stories of brand new cars being resprayed because of stone chips I changed my order for a black car.

Unfortunately mine after 3k needed painting, bonnet and both sides. I was never happy with the repair, they also fitted PPF that always seem to peel off had it replaced 3 or 4 times.

I also had problems with the seat tilt mechanism the cable gets stiff then either the cable snaps or the handle breaks. Vauxhall doesn't sell the parts separately and the whole back of the seat needs replacing. I had both seats fixed under warranty. The passenger seat was done first this was fixed with no real problems. The drivers seat went next and they must of kicked the leather seat cover around the workshop floor & then covered it in silicone spray, to hide the damage I ended up having to let it go as I couldn't prove the seat was in perfect condition prior to the repair. Then 6 months later the passenger seat cable snapped again. Vauxhall then said it wouldn't cover the repair under warranty as just over 3 years old and at the time it had a lifetime warranty. Eventually Vauxhall paid just over £3k to have the seat repaired. The dealer then forgot to put all the padding back in the seat and by then I had had enough. I traded it in for a new Mini JCW.

The car wasn't as fast as I had hoped, but handled well and the interior was a really nice place to be, its just a real shame the dealer was an absolute nightmare. The fuel consumption was also on the heavy side i averaged mid to low 20s on my commute to work (7 miles each way). I had the leather seats that came with heating and the bolsters could adjust how much the squeeze you it was very cool.

I know the front brakes are very expensive and i would go through a set of tyres in approx 18 months.

Hope this helps

Regards

Steve

[Stellartois]

Thanks for taking the time to mention all that Steve, sounds it didn't come without its troubles for you. I've actually bought one since I put the post up, a 7000 mile Arden Blue 13 plate car from a dealer in Essex. It will be a sunny day car and I don't really expect to put too many miles on it each year. I have to admit the performance, looks and Interior were the main things that drew me to the car in the first place having never had a Vauxhall before, oh and that interior! I've read about the paint issues so might look into getting some ppf in a few strategic places. It's being delivered on Tuesday so watch this space, I'll post up some pics when it's here.
Thanks again,
Mike

[STEVE ST]

No problem Mike

I am sure you will be fine , mine was a daily driver and at the time my son was in a child seat in the back. I will be interested on your thoughts on the car.

Regards

Steve