The Opel Astra H 1.3 CDTI Automatic, produced between 2005 and 2006, represented an entry-level offering within the broader Astra H range (2004-2009). Positioned as a fuel-efficient and affordable option, this variant combined a small-displacement diesel engine with a six-speed automatic transmission. It was primarily aimed at buyers in Europe seeking a practical and economical hatchback for daily commuting and urban driving. The Astra H itself was a significant model for Opel, building upon the success of its predecessor and introducing a more refined interior and improved ride quality. This specific 1.3 CDTI Automatic trim occupied the lower end of the spectrum, offering a balance between cost and usability, and served as a stepping stone to more powerful and better-equipped versions.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H |
| Type (Engine) | 1.3 CDTI (90 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2005 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg, 58.9 UK mpg, 20.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 130 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 15.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 15.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 14.5 sec |
| Maximum speed | 170 km/h (105.63 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 13.7 kg/Hp, 73.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.2 kg/Nm, 162.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 90 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 72.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 1750 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z13DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1248 cm3 (76.16 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 69.6 mm (2.74 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18.4:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.1 l (3.28 US qt | 2.73 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.8 l (7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1230 kg (2711.69 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 575 kg (1267.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 380 l (13.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1330 l (46.97 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4249 mm (167.28 in.) |
| Width | 1753 mm (69.02 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2033 mm (80.04 in.) |
| Height | 1467 mm (57.76 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2614 mm (102.91 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 871 mm (34.29 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 764 mm (30.08 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| 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, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Spring Strut |
| Rear suspension | Spring Strut |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the Z13DTH engine, a 1.3-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine belongs to Opel’s family of small-displacement diesels, designed for efficiency and low emissions. It utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allows the engine to produce 90 horsepower and 200 Nm (147.51 lb.-ft.) of torque. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The six-speed automatic transmission, while offering convenience, was not known for its particularly quick shifts. It was a conventional torque converter automatic, prioritizing smooth operation over sporty responsiveness.
Driving Characteristics
The Astra H 1.3 CDTI Automatic’s driving experience was defined by its focus on economy rather than outright performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 14.5 seconds, and top speed was limited to 170 km/h (105.63 mph). The automatic transmission, while smooth, contributed to a somewhat sluggish feel, especially during overtaking maneuvers. The gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, meaning the engine often felt strained when pushed hard. Compared to the 1.8-liter petrol versions or the more powerful 1.7 CDTI, this variant lacked the punch needed for spirited driving. However, for everyday commuting and urban driving, the 1.3 CDTI Automatic provided adequate power and a comfortable ride.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.3 CDTI Automatic typically came with a base level of equipment, reflecting its position as an entry-level model. Standard features generally included power steering, central locking, electric front windows, and an ABS anti-lock braking system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, and the dashboard featured a functional but basic design. Optional extras included air conditioning, alloy wheels, a CD player, and parking sensors. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Enjoy’ or ‘Cosmo’, added more features, but the 1.3 CDTI Automatic was rarely offered with the full suite of options.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H utilized a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This configuration provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. The steering was a rack and pinion system, providing precise and responsive control. The relatively lightweight nature of the 1.3 CDTI engine meant that the suspension didn’t have to work as hard as it would in heavier, more powerful versions of the Astra H.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H 1.3 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by critics as a practical and economical choice. Its fuel economy figures of around 4.8 l/100 km (49 US mpg) were particularly praised. However, the performance was often criticized as being underwhelming, especially compared to the more powerful engine options. The automatic transmission also drew some criticism for its lack of responsiveness. Compared to the 1.7 CDTI, the 1.3 offered lower running costs but sacrificed performance. The 1.8-liter petrol versions provided more power but at the expense of fuel efficiency.
Legacy
The Z13DTH engine, while generally reliable, is known to be susceptible to issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) if not driven on longer journeys regularly. The automatic transmission, while durable, can require more frequent servicing than the manual gearbox. Today, the Astra H 1.3 CDTI Automatic can be found on the used car market at very affordable prices. It remains a viable option for buyers seeking a cheap and economical hatchback, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential DPF issues and ensure the vehicle has been well-maintained. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity, fuel efficiency, and relatively low running costs.
