The Opel Astra J (facelift, introduced in 2012) 1.7 CDTI (130 hp) Ecotec Start/Stop represents a significant iteration within the Astra J generation, produced from 2009 to 2015. This variant, powered by a diesel engine and featuring start/stop technology, was aimed at the European market as a fuel-efficient and practical compact hatchback. It occupied a mid-range position in the Astra J lineup, offering a balance between performance, economy, and equipment levels. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2012 to 2014.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (130 Hp) Ecotec start/stop |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.7 l/100 km (63.6 US mpg, 76.3 UK mpg, 27 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 110 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 198 km/h (123.03 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 10.5 kg/Hp, 94.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.6 kg/Nm, 219 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 130 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 300 Nm @ 2000-2500 rpm (221.27 lb.-ft. @ 2000-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTS |
| 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 and type of gearbox | 6 gears, 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 J variant is the A17DTS engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine belongs to Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘Ecotec’ family, known for its focus on efficiency and reduced emissions. The A17DTS 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 130 horsepower at 4000 rpm and a substantial 300 Nm (221 lb-ft) of torque between 2000 and 2500 rpm. The engine features four valves per cylinder and is designed for durability and relatively low maintenance. The Start/Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further improve fuel economy. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing a good balance between fuel efficiency and driver control.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.7 CDTI with 130 hp and a manual transmission delivers a practical and economical driving experience. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes around 10.6 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving but doesn’t offer particularly sporty performance. The engine’s strong low-end torque makes it feel responsive in urban environments and provides sufficient power for overtaking on highways. The gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency, meaning the engine doesn’t rev as freely as higher-performance variants. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo petrol or the 2.0 CDTI diesel options, this variant prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The manual gearbox is generally well-matched to the engine, offering smooth shifts and a reasonable level of engagement.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTI (130 hp) typically fell into the mid-range of the Astra J trim levels. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a basic audio system with USB connectivity, and ABS brakes. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Sport’ or ‘SE’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic headlights and wipers, and more advanced infotainment systems. Optional extras could include parking sensors, a sunroof, and leather upholstery. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional and durable design. The dashboard layout was typical of the Astra J, with a clear instrument cluster and logically arranged controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were typically solid discs. The electric power steering provided a light and precise feel, making it easy to maneuver in urban environments. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension was tuned to prioritize comfort, but still offered a reasonably controlled driving experience.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Astra J 1.7 CDTI (130 hp) was generally well-received by automotive critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. It was praised for its comfortable ride, spacious interior, and low running costs. However, some critics noted that the engine could be somewhat noisy and that the performance wasn’t particularly exciting. Compared to the 1.4 Turbo petrol, the diesel offered significantly better fuel economy but less refinement. The 2.0 CDTI provided more power but at the expense of fuel efficiency and increased emissions. The Astra J competed with other popular compact hatchbacks such as the Volkswagen Golf, Ford Focus, and Peugeot 308.
Legacy
The A17DTS engine, while generally reliable, is known to have some potential issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF), particularly if the vehicle is primarily used for short journeys. Regular servicing and the use of high-quality diesel fuel are essential to maintain the engine’s longevity. In the used car market, the Astra J 1.7 CDTI (130 hp) remains a popular choice for buyers seeking a fuel-efficient and affordable compact hatchback. Its relatively low running costs and practical features make it a sensible option for everyday commuting and family use. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are reasonable.
