NO half-baked, body-kitted and badged version of what is otherwise an ordinary family hatchback, the Astra SRi reveals its intent with a strong 2.2-litre engine, reworked suspension and heavier-duty transmissions. And, of course, a few not so subtle body attachments that pay visual homage to the hot-hatch philosophy - including a massive, rear view impeding rear spoiler. Then there's a well kitted out interior complete with sports seats, white instrument faces and a decent line-up of equipment that includes ABS, traction control, air-conditioning, cruise control and a leather-rimmed steering wheel complete with auxiliary sound system controls. Dual front airbags are also part of a deal that makes the under-$30,000 SRi a very tempting hot hatch.

Holden TR Astra GSi
Released: September 1996
Ended: September 1998
Family Tree: AstraThe current, TS model, Astra appeared Down Under in September 1998, but the hottest SRi version tested here didn't arrive locally until October 2001. Prior to the TS, the TR version of September 1996 was an Opel-sourced version of Astra with a short, two-year model life to replace the Astra-badged Toyota Corolla. Pictured is the Astra SRi's immediate predecessor, the 2.0-litre/100kW TR Astra GSi.
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