Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (110 Hp) Ecotec |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4 l/100 km (43.6 US mpg, 52.3 UK mpg, 18.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4 l/100 km (58.8 US mpg, 70.6 UK mpg, 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 120 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.7 kg/Hp, 79 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5 kg/Nm, 201 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.) |
| 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 | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 567 kg (1250.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI, introduced after the 2012 facelift, was designed to appeal to buyers seeking a practical and economical estate car. The facelift brought styling updates, improved interior materials, and enhanced technology compared to the pre-facelift models. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Sports Tourer lineup, it slotted below the more powerful diesel variants (like the 2.0 CDTI) and petrol engines, and above the base-level trims. The 1.7 CDTI engine was a key component of Opel’s efforts to meet increasingly stringent European emissions standards while still providing acceptable performance for everyday driving.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the A17DTC engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘Ecotec’ family, emphasizing efficiency and reduced emissions. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine is turbocharged with a variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooled, enhancing power and torque output. The valvetrain features two overhead camshafts (DOHC) operating 16 valves. The engine’s design prioritizes low-end torque, making it suitable for hauling loads and providing relaxed cruising. The 1.7 CDTI was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, delivering power to the front wheels. While an automatic transmission was available on other Astra J models, it wasn’t typically offered with this specific engine/trim combination.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.7 CDTI engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 11.9 seconds, and top speed is approximately 114 mph. The engine’s strength lies in its mid-range torque, making overtaking and hill climbing manageable. The six-speed manual transmission is well-matched to the engine, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to the more powerful 2.0 CDTI variants, the 1.7 CDTI feels noticeably slower, particularly at higher speeds. However, it offers a more relaxed driving experience and significantly better fuel economy. The gear ratios are tuned for efficiency, prioritizing fuel savings over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, ABS brakes, and stability control. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Sportive’ or ‘SE’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, rear parking sensors, and upgraded interior trim. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather available on higher-spec models. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with a clear instrument cluster and intuitive controls. Optional extras included a panoramic sunroof, navigation system, and heated seats.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance of ride comfort and handling. The torsion beam rear suspension is a cost-effective solution commonly found in vehicles of this class. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear wheels. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and safety. The steering is electrically assisted, providing light and precise control. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and practical estate car body style. However, some reviewers noted that the engine lacked outright power, particularly when fully loaded. Compared to the 2.0 CDTI variants, the 1.7 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy – around 4.5 l/100km (52.3 mpg) combined – but at the expense of performance. The 1.7 CDTI was considered a good value proposition for buyers prioritizing economy and practicality over sporty driving dynamics. It competed effectively with rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Variant, offering a similar blend of features and performance.
Legacy
The A17DTC engine, while generally reliable, has been known to exhibit issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. Proper maintenance, including regular oil changes and DPF regeneration, is crucial for ensuring long-term reliability. In the used car market, the Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and economical estate car. Its reputation for fuel efficiency and practicality continues to make it a compelling option, although potential buyers should be aware of the potential DPF issues and ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained.
