The Opel Astra H (facelift, produced in 2007) 1.6 (115/112 hp) ecoFLEX LPG represents a specific variant within the broader Astra H range, manufactured primarily for the European market. Production of this particular configuration was limited to the 2009 model year. It was positioned as an economy-focused option, appealing to buyers seeking lower running costs through the benefits of LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) conversion, while still offering a practical and relatively well-equipped family hatchback. This model sat within the Astra H lineup alongside petrol, diesel, and other alternative fuel variants, offering a compromise between performance and fuel efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (115/112 Hp) ecoFLEX LPG |
| Start of production | 2009 |
| End of production | 2009 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.7 l/100 km (27 US mpg, 32.5 UK mpg, 11.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / LPG |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.1 kg/Hp, 98.7 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.5 kg/Nm, 133 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72 Hp/l |
| Power (LPG) | 112 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre (LPG) | 70.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Torque (LPG) | 147 Nm @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z16XER |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Compression ratio | 10.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt, 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt, 6.07 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1165 kg (2568.39 lbs) |
| Max. weight | 1715 kg (3780.93 lbs) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 375 l (13.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1295 l (45.73 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 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) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE to Front Wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra H 1.6 ecoFLEX LPG is the Z16XER engine, a 1.6-liter (1598 cc) inline-four cylinder petrol engine. This engine belongs to Opel’s ‘Ecotec’ family, known for its focus on efficiency and refinement. It utilizes multi-point fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine’s design prioritizes torque delivery at lower RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving. The LPG conversion is a factory-fitted system, designed to run on either petrol or LPG, or a combination of both. When running on LPG, a slight power reduction to 112 hp is observed due to the lower energy density of LPG compared to petrol. The engine is paired with a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel economy. This transmission features typical gear ratios for a front-wheel-drive hatchback, prioritizing acceleration in the lower gears and comfortable cruising at highway speeds.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter engine, producing 115 hp and 155 Nm of torque, delivers adequate performance for typical urban and highway driving. Acceleration is not particularly brisk, with a 0-60 mph time estimated around 11-12 seconds. However, the engine is responsive enough for overtaking maneuvers and maintaining a comfortable cruising speed. The five-speed manual transmission allows for precise control over the engine’s power band. Compared to higher-output versions of the Astra H, such as those equipped with the 1.8-liter or 2.0-liter petrol engines, or the 1.9-liter diesel, this variant offers a more relaxed driving experience. The LPG system provides a noticeable cost saving on fuel, but also results in a slightly reduced driving range compared to a purely petrol-powered model. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride over most road surfaces.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 ecoFLEX LPG variant typically came with a moderate level of standard equipment. This generally included air conditioning, power steering, electric front windows, a basic audio system with CD player, and ABS brakes. Safety features such as driver and passenger airbags were standard. Higher trim levels, available as options, could add features like alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, cruise control, and automatic climate control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was typical of the Astra H, with a clear and straightforward instrument cluster.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H 1.6 ecoFLEX LPG utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes are solid discs. The steering is power-assisted, providing light and easy steering feel. The chassis is designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s fuel efficiency. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H 1.6 ecoFLEX LPG was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its main selling point was the reduced running costs offered by the LPG conversion. Compared to the petrol-only 1.6-liter version, the LPG model offered significant fuel savings, particularly for drivers who covered high mileages. However, the LPG system added some complexity to the engine and required periodic maintenance. Compared to the diesel variants, the LPG model offered a quieter and smoother driving experience, but lacked the diesel’s superior fuel economy and torque. Reliability was generally good, with the Z16XER engine proving to be a durable unit.
Legacy
The Opel Astra H 1.6 ecoFLEX LPG represents a period of increasing interest in alternative fuels in Europe. While LPG conversions are less common today due to the rise of diesel and, more recently, electric vehicles, the Astra H LPG remains a viable option for budget-conscious drivers. The Z16XER engine is known for its reliability, and parts availability is generally good. On the used car market, these models are often priced competitively, making them an attractive option for those seeking an affordable and economical family hatchback. The ecoFLEX designation highlights Opel’s early efforts to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions, paving the way for future generations of more environmentally friendly vehicles.
