Yep, still liking it. The big screen sat nav version is a definite improvement over the normal version and along with the 1.6T's extra shove and the extra sound proofing it makes a very quiet & agile car. It's relatively cheap to own and insure. There are a few niggles; the steering could be heavier...

Corsa can have an actual heated front screen but it's never been an option on the Astra. Odd. The front screen button (on all Astras since th J?) next to the rear window (and wing mirrors of course!) demister works really quickly. You don't need to press any other buttons as it will max the fan spee...

Yes, the 18" wheels are 225/40 and the 17s are 225/45 so the tyre+wheel diameter/circumference is the same so the speedo should be OK. Personally, I found the 18" wheels to be better than the 17" ones (both on CrossClimate+ tyres) but it could be down to having a Watt's Link on my current one which ...

It's not much fun - but the CrossClimates do work!

Reminded me of the old Sport Hatch SRi - somehow felt a bit more special!

Normally I drive off after a few seconds, just depends on how long it takes for my son to stop faffing around and plug his seatbelt in, tuning the radio, turning off the ****ing parking sensors, setting sat nav destination, etc. The 1.4T dropped in about 5 seconds - the 1.6T seems to take quite a wh...

Can't say I've noticed the problem and mine's running on Sainsbury's Super 97 RON (which I think I'm right in saying might still be supplied by BP...?)

The only issue from cold is how long it takes to drop the revs to normal tickover - the 1.4T took no time at all. Must be the cast iron block?

Make sure it's got the latest ECU update and the correct oil (Dexos 1 Gen 2) and it should resolve the problem.

It'd take about 2 to 3 tankfuls before you've diluted whatever was left of the 98 RON petrol with the 95 stuff before you could notice any difference. My old 1.4T definitely seemed to run better on Sainsbury's Super Unleaded 97 and it's my fuel of choice for the 1.6T.

If it's particularly stubborn, I find that a wet piece of kitchen towel with a quirt of washing up liquid placed on top for a few minutes works wonders on breaking it up and allowing it to be wiped off without scratching the paint.