When GM imported the Opel Astra form it's special Saturn assembly line in Antwerp, Belgium, the price was just stupid. Even Bob (the putz) Lutz admitted so. With GM and everyone else in the automotive industry cutting prices, the Astra which debuted at a starting price of $18,000. can now be bought for around $13K.
Dealers are stuck with overstock of 2008's (there really are not many '09's available) so now is the time to get a great deal. Not saying that Saturn dealers hassle and haggle, but saying that they are selling Astras at really good deals right now.
The Astra has been available world-wide for over a decade now so parts are readily available if and when needed. I got a great deal and got out of my buggy ION and into a Astra XE I really like. I am averaging 31mpg in city and 28 on hwy. not bad considering the heavy weight of this car. In contrast to the IOn, the Astra is not a straight-line race winner by any means but can out-handle and out maneuver the ION with ttrue European sports-car handling you would expect of a much more expensive car.
Just my review. If you are thinking of getting one, nows the time to go drive one and see what I am talking about.