The Opel Astra H Caravan 1.9 CDTI Automatic, produced from July 2005 to 2006, represented a practical and fuel-efficient option within the broader Astra H (2004-2010) range. Positioned as a mid-range offering, this variant combined the versatility of the Caravan (estate) body style with a diesel engine and the convenience of an automatic transmission. It was primarily marketed in Europe as a family vehicle, offering a balance between cargo capacity, running costs, and comfortable transportation. The Astra H generation, built on the GM Delta platform, aimed to improve upon its predecessor with enhanced interior space, safety features, and a more refined driving experience.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra H Caravan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.9 CDTI (120 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | July, 2005 |
| End of production | 2006 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8 l/100 km (29.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 169 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 185 km/h (114.95 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.3 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 3250 rpm |
| Torque | 250 Nm @ 1750 rpm (184.39 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Z19DT |
| Engine displacement | 1910 cm3 (116.56 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm (3.23 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 17.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 2 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.3 l (4.54 US qt | 3.78 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7 l (7.4 US qt | 6.16 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1975 kg (4354.13 lbs.) |
| Max load | 625 kg (1377.89 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1590 l (56.15 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 52 l (13.74 US gal | 11.44 UK gal) |
| Length | 4515 mm (177.76 in.) |
| Width | 1794 mm (70.63 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2703 mm (106.42 in.) |
| Front track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Rear track | 1488 mm (58.58 in.) |
| Front overhang | 871 mm (34.29 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 941 mm (37.05 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 160 mm (6.3 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra H Caravan 1.9 CDTI Automatic is the Z19DT engine, a 1.9-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is a member of Opel/Fiat’s family of common rail direct injection diesels. The Z19DT utilizes a turbocharger with an intercooler to boost power and efficiency. The common rail direct injection system, supplied by Bosch, delivers fuel at extremely high pressure directly into the combustion chamber, optimizing combustion and reducing emissions. The engine features a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with two valves per cylinder. Paired with this engine is a six-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth gear changes and enhancing driving comfort. This transmission was designed to handle the engine’s torque output effectively, although it wasn’t known for particularly sporty performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 horsepower and 250 Nm (184 lb-ft) of torque produced by the 1.9 CDTI engine, when coupled with the six-speed automatic, resulted in a comfortable, rather than exhilarating, driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.6 seconds, and top speed was approximately 115 mph. The automatic transmission, while convenient, did slightly diminish the engine’s responsiveness compared to the manual versions. Gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency and relaxed cruising, making it well-suited for long highway journeys. The automatic transmission’s shift points were generally smooth, but could sometimes feel hesitant during quick overtaking maneuvers. Compared to the more powerful 1.9 CDTI variants (150 hp), this version offered less outright performance, but provided better fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.9 CDTI Automatic trim typically included standard features such as air conditioning, power windows, central locking, and an integrated radio/CD player. Safety features included ABS brakes, front and side airbags, and seatbelt pretensioners. Higher trim levels, such as the ‘Enjoy’ or ‘Cosmo’ variants, added features like alloy wheels, climate control, a trip computer, and upgraded interior upholstery. Optional extras included a sunroof, parking sensors, and a navigation system. Interior materials were generally durable and functional, reflecting the car’s practical focus.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra H Caravan featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a comfortable ride and decent handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing ride quality over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra H Caravan 1.9 CDTI Automatic was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and economical family car. Its fuel efficiency was a major selling point, particularly in Europe where diesel fuel was often cheaper than gasoline. However, some reviewers noted that the automatic transmission could feel sluggish at times, and the engine lacked the punch of the more powerful variants. Compared to rivals like the Ford Focus Estate and Volkswagen Golf Estate, the Astra H Caravan offered a competitive level of space, practicality, and value for money. The 1.9 CDTI engine was known for its reliability, but the automatic transmission could be prone to issues if not properly maintained.
Legacy
The Opel Astra H Caravan 1.9 CDTI Automatic remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. The Z19DT engine is generally considered to be a durable and reliable unit, provided it receives regular maintenance. The automatic transmission, however, requires careful attention to fluid changes to prevent premature failure. In the used car market, these Astras represent a good value proposition for buyers seeking a spacious, economical, and practical estate car. While not a performance icon, the 1.9 CDTI Automatic variant served as a dependable and fuel-efficient workhorse for many families.
