I don't agree. The Astra 1.6 I drove in France was superb, inside and out. The damping rates were much firmer, and the steering had actual road feel. The interior, while a bit plain looking, was certainly built with better quality control ergonomics and design, compared to the US market.

Motors will still rough though...:down: but the chassis work for Opel platform is solid.

I think the bigger problem lies in the "Americanization" of these platforms for the home market, who is pitching the cars at people who don't appreciate the precise handling and good body control that drivers like us live for. Add to this recipe shitty interiors that are fabricated by Fisher-Price, and a lack of any palpable design talent....

Sigh.....:sad: