The Opel Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6 CDTi (136 hp) ecoFLEX start&stop is a station wagon that was produced between 2015 and 2018. It represents a key variant within the Astra K generation (2015-2019), specifically designed to offer a balance of fuel efficiency and practicality. Positioned as a mid-range offering, it slotted between the lower-powered diesel options and the more potent petrol variants, appealing to buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability. The Astra K Sports Tourer, in general, aimed to modernize the Astra lineup with a lighter chassis, improved interior quality, and a wider range of technology features compared to its predecessor.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra K Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 CDTi (136 Hp) ecoFLEX start&stop |
| Start of production | 2015 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.5 – 4.7 l/100 km (52.3 – 50 US mpg, 62.8 – 60.1 UK mpg, 22.2 – 21.3 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.4 – 3.5 l/100 km (69.2 – 67.2 US mpg, 83.1 – 80.7 UK mpg, 29.4 – 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 3.8 – 3.9 l/100 km (61.9 – 60.3 US mpg, 74.3 – 72.4 UK mpg, 26.3 – 25.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 104 – 101 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 205 km/h (127.38 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 241 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 136 Hp @ 3500-4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 320 Nm @ 2000-2250 rpm (236.02 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2250 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | B16DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79.7 mm (3.14 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 80.1 mm (3.15 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 16:1 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5 l (5.28 US qt | 4.4 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1328 kg (2927.74 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1975 kg (4354.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 647 kg (1426.39 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1630 l (57.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1403 kg (3093.09 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680 kg (1499.14 lbs.) |
| Length | 4702 mm (185.12 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2042 mm (80.39 in.) |
| Height | 1499 mm (59.02 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| 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, manual transmission |
| 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; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6 CDTi is the B16DTH engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel’s ‘Whisper Diesel’ family, known for its focus on refinement and fuel efficiency. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. The engine also features a turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output and torque. The valvetrain employs two overhead camshafts (DOHC) controlling four valves per cylinder. The ‘ecoFLEX’ designation indicates the inclusion of specific technologies aimed at reducing emissions and improving fuel economy, such as start&stop functionality. This system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary, restarting it instantly when the driver depresses the clutch or selects ‘Drive’. The engine is transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this variant, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 136 hp output and 320 Nm (236 lb-ft) of torque provide adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.6 seconds, and top speed is rated at 205 km/h (127 mph). While not a particularly sporty setup, the engine delivers a usable amount of power for overtaking and highway cruising. The manual transmission allows for precise gear selection, but the gear ratios are tuned for economy rather than outright performance. Compared to the more powerful petrol versions of the Astra K, the 1.6 CDTi feels less responsive, but it offers significantly better fuel economy. Against other diesel variants, like the 1.3 CDTi, the 1.6 CDTi provides a noticeable step up in power and refinement. The turbocharger does exhibit some lag at lower engine speeds, but once spooled up, it provides a smooth and linear power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 CDTi ecoFLEX typically came equipped as a mid-range trim level. Standard features generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, electric windows and mirrors, and a multi-function steering wheel. Safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags were also standard. Optional extras included features like heated seats, a panoramic sunroof, advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking, and upgraded infotainment systems with navigation. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with the option of leather upgrades. Dashboard trim was generally a combination of black plastics with silver accents.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra K Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, while the rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, providing enhanced braking performance in emergency situations. The steering is a rack and pinion system with electric power assistance, offering a light and precise steering feel. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6 CDTi ecoFLEX was generally well-received by automotive critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was praised for its comfortable ride and refined engine. However, some critics noted that the engine lacked the outright performance of some of its rivals. Compared to other station wagons in its class, such as the Ford Focus Estate and the Volkswagen Golf Variant, the Astra K offered a competitive package in terms of fuel economy and value for money. The 1.6 CDTi variant offered a compelling alternative to the more expensive petrol engines, appealing to buyers who prioritized economy without sacrificing too much in terms of performance.
Legacy
The B16DTH engine has proven to be a relatively reliable unit, although, like all diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues related to the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not properly maintained. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential for ensuring long-term reliability. On the used car market, the Astra K Sports Tourer 1.6 CDTi ecoFLEX represents a sensible and economical choice. Its fuel efficiency and practicality make it a popular option for families and commuters. While not the most exciting car to drive, it offers a comfortable and reliable driving experience at a reasonable price point.
