Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H GTC (facelift 2007) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | April, 2007 |
| End of production | 2010 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 3 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.6 l/100 km (51.1 US mpg, 61.4 UK mpg, 21.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 146 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 197 km/h (122.41 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 4 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.4 kg/Hp, 95.8 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 214.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 74.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 2300 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 2300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z17DTR |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1305 kg (2877.03 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1855 kg (4089.57 lbs.) |
| Max load | 550 kg (1212.54 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 340 l (12.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1070 l (37.79 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4290 mm (168.9 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1804 mm (71.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1435 mm (56.5 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 910 mm (35.83 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 766 mm (30.16 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.2 m (36.75 ft.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Torsion |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16; 225/45 R17; 225/40 R18 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 17; 7.5J x 18 |
The Opel Astra H GTC 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC (125 hp) was a popular variant of the Astra H GTC (Grand Tourer Coupe) model, produced from April 2007 through 2010. This three-door hatchback represented a blend of sporty styling and fuel-efficient diesel power, aimed at buyers seeking a practical yet engaging driving experience. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Astra H GTC lineup, it slotted between the lower-powered 1.3 CDTI and the more performance-focused 2.0 Turbo models. The facelifted 2007 model year brought revised styling cues and minor mechanical updates compared to the pre-facelift versions.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra H GTC 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC was the Z17DTR engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘ECOTEC’ family, emphasizing efficiency and reduced emissions. The Z17DTR utilized a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler was employed to boost power output, providing 125 horsepower at 4000 rpm and 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque at 2300 rpm. The engine featured a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s 18:1 compression ratio was typical for a diesel engine, contributing to its thermal efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC-equipped Astra GTC offered a respectable driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 9.9 seconds, and it reached a top speed of 197 km/h (122.41 mph). While not a sports car, the engine provided sufficient torque for everyday driving and overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 Turbo models, the 1.7 CDTI felt less responsive, but it offered significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios were tuned for efficiency, with a relatively long final drive. The steering was precise, and the suspension provided a comfortable ride, although it wasn’t as sporty as some competitors.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra H GTC 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Sport’ or ‘Design’, added features like alloy wheels, sports seats, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a more advanced audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with leather options available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with clear instrumentation.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H GTC featured a McPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup 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. The chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H GTC 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and practical hatchback body style. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked the punch of its petrol counterparts. Compared to other diesel hatchbacks in its class, such as the Volkswagen Golf and Ford Focus, the Astra offered a competitive package in terms of price, fuel economy, and equipment. Its fuel economy figures of around 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg) were particularly attractive to buyers.
Legacy
The Z17DTR engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues, including occasional problems with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) and the turbocharger. Regular maintenance, including oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. Today, the Astra H GTC 1.7 CDTI ECOTEC can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It remains a practical and economical choice for buyers seeking a small, fuel-efficient hatchback. Its relatively simple mechanicals make it a reasonably easy car to maintain, and parts availability is generally good.
