The Opel Astra J (facelift, introduced in 2012) 1.7 CDTI Ecotec, producing 110 horsepower, represented a key offering in Opel’s compact car lineup. Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option, this variant was aimed at buyers prioritizing economy and everyday usability. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2012 to 2014, falling within the broader J-series Astra’s lifecycle (2009-2015). The facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the Astra J, enhancing its appeal in the competitive European C-segment.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J (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 | Hatchback |
| 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 | 119 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 186 km/h (115.58 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.5 kg/Hp, 80.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.9 kg/Nm, 204.4 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 capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1370 kg (3020.33 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1940 kg (4276.97 lbs.) |
| Max load | 570 kg (1256.63 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1235 l (43.61 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Length | 4419 mm (173.98 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 | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 205/60 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the A17DTC, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine. This engine is part of Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘Ecotec’ family, known for its focus on efficiency and reduced emissions. The A17DTC utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A turbocharger with an intercooler is employed to boost power output, providing 110 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a healthy 280 Nm (206.52 lb-ft) of torque between 1750 and 2500 rpm. The engine features four valves per cylinder and is designed for durability and relatively low maintenance. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, chosen for its balance of fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTI with the manual gearbox offered a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration to 60 mph took around 11.7 seconds, and top speed was 115.58 mph. While not a performance-oriented setup, the engine’s torque delivery made it feel responsive in everyday driving situations. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine didn’t feel strained at highway speeds. Compared to higher-output Astra J variants like the 1.6 Turbo petrol, the 1.7 CDTI prioritized fuel economy and low-end grunt over outright speed. It also differed significantly from the 2.0 CDTI models, which offered considerably more power but at the expense of fuel consumption and with a higher price tag.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTI typically came in lower to mid-range trim levels, such as ‘Essentia’ or ‘Sport’. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo, and ABS brakes. Higher trims added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, a multi-function steering wheel, and upgraded interior trim. Optional extras included parking sensors, a sunroof, and a navigation system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was typical of the Astra J, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J’s chassis was designed to provide a comfortable ride and predictable handling. The front suspension utilized MacPherson struts, while the rear suspension employed a torsion beam setup. This configuration offered a good balance between ride comfort and handling precision. The 1.7 CDTI variants typically featured ventilated disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking. The electric power steering provided light and precise steering feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J 1.7 CDTI was well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was often praised as a sensible choice for drivers covering long distances or those prioritizing running costs. Compared to other C-segment diesel hatchbacks like the Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi and Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI, the Astra J offered competitive fuel economy and a comfortable ride. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy under hard acceleration. Reliability was generally good, although, like all diesel engines, the particulate filter could require occasional maintenance.
Legacy
The A17DTC engine proved to be a reliable and durable unit, and Astra J models equipped with this engine continue to be popular on the used car market. While not known for blistering performance, the 1.7 CDTI offers a compelling combination of fuel economy, practicality, and affordability. The engine’s relatively simple design and robust construction contribute to its longevity, making it a sensible choice for buyers seeking a dependable and economical compact car. Parts availability remains good, and maintenance costs are generally reasonable.
