[Nuje]

It really depends what you need. I bought a Mazda 3 a year ago. The hatchback factor has now become huge for me. Resale is another thing to consider, as the Honda's will definitely be a good bit higher. As far as being a good car, my parents 07 Civic Sedan is problem free so far, real good on gas, enough power to pass, and for an automatic (I HATE driving automatic for the most part, unless the car is really fast) the gearbox does what I want it to as much as I can expect it to.
The Astra is an Opel (Vauxhall in Britain). I haven`t driven one, but I think it`s a great looking car. Also, I`ve heard nothing but good reviews on them (Top Gear says ``I`d buy this car if it weren`t for the badge` simply because Vauxhall`s are looked upon by that community as awful) Do test drive them, and the rent idea is brilliant. Load them up with cargo too.