The Opel Astra J Sedan 1.7 CDTI, producing 110 horsepower, was a key variant within the Astra J Sedan range, manufactured between 2012 and 2014. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, it catered to buyers seeking a balance between economy and everyday usability. This model occupied a mid-range slot in the Astra J Sedan lineup, offering a step up from the base engine options while remaining more accessible than the higher-performance variants. The Astra J Sedan itself was a significant model for Opel, representing a move towards a more refined and contemporary design language, and aimed at competing with established rivals in the compact sedan segment, particularly within the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (110 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2 l/100 km (45.2 US mpg, 54.3 UK mpg, 19.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.4 l/100 km (53.5 US mpg, 64.2 UK mpg, 22.7 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 117 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 188 km/h (116.82 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.8 kg/Hp, 78.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 199.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTC |
| 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 |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1405 kg (3097.49 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1895 kg (4177.76 lbs.) |
| Max load | 490 kg (1080.27 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1010 l (35.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4658 mm (183.39 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 974 mm (38.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 999 mm (39.33 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE drives front wheels |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra J Sedan 1.7 CDTI was the A17DTC engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘family’ of small-capacity diesel engines, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It featured 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 and improve torque across a wider rev range. The engine also incorporated four valves per cylinder, enhancing breathing and contributing to its overall performance. The 110 horsepower output was achieved at 4000 rpm, while the peak torque of 280 Nm (206.52 lb.-ft.) was available between 1750 and 2500 rpm. This broad torque curve made the engine responsive in everyday driving situations. The engine was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, chosen for its efficiency and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTI with the manual transmission offered a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 mph) took around 12.4 seconds, which was adequate for daily commuting and general use, but not particularly sporty. The engine’s strength lay in its mid-range torque, providing sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers and maintaining comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. Compared to higher-output Astra J variants, such as those equipped with the 2.0 CDTI engine, the 1.7 CDTI felt less powerful, but it also offered significantly better fuel economy. The six-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s characteristics, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal torque band. The gear ratios were spaced to prioritize fuel efficiency, but still provided enough flexibility for varying driving conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra J Sedan 1.7 CDTI typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels added features such as alloy wheels, cruise control, a more advanced audio system, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. The dashboard layout was functional and ergonomically designed, with a focus on ease of use. Optional extras included a sunroof, leather upholstery, and a navigation system.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sedan featured a MacPherson 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, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were typically drum brakes on the base models, upgraded to discs on higher trims. Electric power steering was standard, providing light and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s overall fuel efficiency.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J Sedan 1.7 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, and it offered a comfortable ride for everyday driving. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of its larger counterparts. Compared to other compact sedans in its class, the Astra J Sedan 1.7 CDTI offered a competitive level of equipment and fuel economy. Its reliability was generally considered to be good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common concern with modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The Opel Astra J Sedan 1.7 CDTI remains a relatively common sight on used car markets today. The A17DTC engine, while not without its potential issues (such as DPF clogging and occasional turbocharger problems), is generally considered to be a durable and reliable unit when properly maintained. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs continue to make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Astra J Sedan, as a whole, established Opel as a contender in the compact sedan segment, and the 1.7 CDTI variant played a significant role in its success.
