The Opel Astra G Coupe 2.2 DTI, produced between July 2002 and November 2004, represented a sporty and efficient offering within the broader Astra G Coupe range. Positioned as a diesel-powered alternative, it aimed to provide a balance of performance and fuel economy for buyers seeking a stylish two-door coupe. This variant utilized Opel’s 2.2-liter direct injection turbodiesel engine, delivering 125 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque. It was part of the G platform (1HX0/A3), shared with other models like the Zafira and Vectra, but distinguished itself with its coupe body style and focus on a more dynamic driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra G Coupe |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 DTI (125 Hp) |
| Start of production | July, 2002 |
| End of production | November, 2004 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 4 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.2 l/100 km (37.9 US mpg, 45.6 UK mpg, 16.1 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 166 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 | 200 km/h (124.27 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 3 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 95.4 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.7 kg/Nm, 213.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 125 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 57.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1500-2750 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1500-2750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Y22DTR |
| Engine displacement | 2171 cm3 (132.48 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 84 mm (3.31 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 98 mm (3.86 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | SOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.5 l (5.81 US qt | 4.84 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 7.9 l (8.35 US qt | 6.95 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1310 kg (2888.06 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1730 kg (3814 lbs.) |
| Max load | 420 kg (925.94 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1400 kg (3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 650 kg (1433 lbs.) |
| Permitted towbar download | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4267 mm (167.99 in.) |
| Width | 1709 mm (67.28 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 1967 mm (77.44 in.) |
| Height | 1390 mm (54.72 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2606 mm (102.6 in.) |
| Front track | 1474 mm (58.03 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1462 mm (57.56 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 130 mm (5.12 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.28 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.5 m (37.73 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 | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Semi-independent, coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/50 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra G Coupe 2.2 DTI is the Y22DTR engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine utilizes direct injection technology, coupled with a turbocharger and intercooler, to maximize power and efficiency. The common rail diesel injection system, a relatively new technology at the time, allowed for precise fuel delivery and improved combustion. The engine features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating four valves per cylinder. The high compression ratio of 18.5:1 is typical for diesel engines, contributing to their thermal efficiency. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s layout is front transverse, a common configuration for front-wheel-drive vehicles.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.2 DTI engine delivered a respectable 125 horsepower and 280 Nm of torque, making the Astra G Coupe a capable performer. While not as quick as the gasoline-powered variants, the diesel offered significantly more torque, particularly at lower engine speeds. This resulted in strong acceleration in everyday driving situations and made overtaking easier. The 0-60 mph time of around 9.9 seconds and a top speed of 200 km/h (124 mph) were competitive for its class. The manual transmission provided a direct connection to the engine, allowing drivers to fully utilize the available power. Compared to the higher-output gasoline engines, the 2.2 DTI prioritized fuel economy over outright performance.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra G Coupe 2.2 DTI typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included power windows, central locking, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. The dashboard layout was functional and driver-focused. Optional extras included alloy wheels, air conditioning, a sunroof, and upgraded audio systems. The trim level often dictated the availability of these options, with higher trims offering more features as standard.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra G Coupe featured an independent McPherson strut suspension at the front and a semi-independent coil spring suspension at the rear. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. Ventilated disc brakes were fitted to the front wheels, while solid discs were used at the rear. The hydraulic power steering offered a responsive and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to be relatively lightweight, contributing to the car’s agility. Stabilizer bars were included to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra G Coupe 2.2 DTI was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical coupe. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was more affordable than gasoline. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and lacked the refinement of some of its competitors. Compared to the gasoline-powered Astra G Coupes, the 2.2 DTI offered better fuel economy but less overall performance. It was often seen as a sensible choice for drivers who prioritized practicality and running costs over outright speed.
Legacy
The Opel Astra G Coupe 2.2 DTI has proven to be a relatively reliable vehicle, with the Y22DTR engine being known for its durability. However, like all diesel engines, it is susceptible to issues related to the fuel injection system and turbocharger. Today, the Astra G Coupe 2.2 DTI can be found on the used car market at affordable prices. It remains a popular choice for those seeking a stylish and economical coupe, offering a unique blend of performance and practicality. Its enduring appeal lies in its simple mechanical design and relatively low running costs.
