The Opel Astra H 1.9 CDTI Automatic, produced between 2004 and 2006, represented a significant offering in the European compact car market. This variant, powered by the Z19DT engine and paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, reasonable performance, and convenience for drivers seeking a comfortable daily commuter. It occupied a mid-range position within the Astra H lineup, slotting between the lower-powered petrol engines and the more performance-oriented variants like the 2.0 Turbo. The Astra H generation (2004-2009) itself was a crucial model for Opel, building upon the success of its predecessor and introducing a more refined and modern package.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2004 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.8 l/100 km (24 US mpg, 28.8 UK mpg, 10.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.5 l/100 km (42.8 US mpg, 51.4 UK mpg, 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3 l/100 km (37.3 US mpg, 44.8 UK mpg, 15.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.8 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3250 rpm |
| Power per litre | 62.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1750 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DT |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1885 kg (4155.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 492 kg (1084.67 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1330 l (46.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4249 mm (167.28 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 871 mm (34.29 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm (30.08 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.32 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra H 1.9 CDTI Automatic is the Z19DT engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel/Fiat’s family of common rail direct injection diesels. The Z19DT utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The common rail direct injection system, supplied by Bosch, delivers fuel at extremely high pressure directly into the combustion chamber, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. The six-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Japan (typically Aisin), was chosen for its smoothness and efficiency. It features adaptive shift patterns, adjusting to driving style and conditions.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.9 CDTI Automatic offered adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.3 seconds, and top speed was approximately 116 mph. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did result in some power loss compared to the manual versions. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and smooth cruising, rather than outright acceleration. In real-world driving, the car felt comfortable and capable for everyday commuting and highway journeys. The torque delivery was strong from low RPMs, making it easy to navigate city traffic and overtake slower vehicles. However, drivers accustomed to more powerful engines might find the performance somewhat lacking, especially when fully loaded or climbing hills.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9 CDTI Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, central locking, an audio system (usually a CD player with basic controls), and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Sport’ or ‘Elegance’ variants, added features like alloy wheels, upgraded upholstery, climate control, and parking sensors. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather seats, and a more advanced audio system with navigation. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with higher trims offering partial leather options. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H 1.9 CDTI Automatic utilized a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This configuration provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The steering was a rack and pinion system, offering precise and responsive control. The suspension was tuned to provide a comfortable ride, but it could feel a little soft in corners compared to the more performance-focused Astra variants.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H 1.9 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and reasonable performance. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the engine lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the 1.8-liter petrol versions, the 1.9 CDTI Automatic offered significantly better fuel economy and more torque. Against other diesel rivals like the Volkswagen Golf TDI, the Astra H offered a competitive package in terms of price and features.
Legacy
The Z19DT engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including turbocharger failure and injector problems, particularly if not properly maintained. The automatic transmission, if serviced regularly, is also considered relatively durable. Today, the Astra H 1.9 CDTI Automatic can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It remains a viable option for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient compact car, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential maintenance issues associated with the diesel engine and automatic transmission. Its blend of practicality and economy has ensured a continued presence on European roads, and it represents a solid, if unspectacular, chapter in Opel’s history.
