Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sedan |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 (115 Hp) ecoFLEX Start/Stop |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2018 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.3-8.5 l/100 km (28.3 – 27.7 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.1-5.2 l/100 km (46.1 – 45.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.3-6.4 l/100 km (37.3 – 36.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 147-149 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.3 sec |
| Maximum speed | 193 km/h (119.92 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.2 kg/Hp |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 9.1 kg/Nm |
| Power | 115 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Torque | 155 Nm @ 4000 rpm (114.32 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A16XER |
| Engine displacement | 1598 cm3 (97.52 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.5 mm (3.21 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.6 l (5.92 US qt | 4.93 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1405-1515 kg (3097.49 – 3340 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1915-2025 kg (4221.85 – 4464.36 lbs.) |
| Max load | 510 kg (1124.36 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 460 l (16.24 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1010 l (35.67 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1050-1400 kg (2314.85 – 3086.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 680-730 kg (1499.14 – 1609.37 lbs.) |
| Length | 4658 mm (183.39 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1500 mm (59.06 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Front overhang | 974 mm (38.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 999 mm (39.33 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.5 m (37.73 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
The Opel Astra J Sedan 1.6 (115 hp) ecoFLEX Start/Stop, launched in 2012, was a key variant within the broader Astra J Sedan lineup. Built on the 1HX0 platform (shared with the Chevrolet Cruze), it aimed to provide a fuel-efficient and affordable option for buyers in the compact sedan segment. The “ecoFLEX” designation signified Opel’s commitment to fuel economy, incorporating features like Start/Stop technology and optimized aerodynamics. This model was primarily targeted at European markets where compact sedans remained popular, offering a practical alternative to hatchbacks and larger vehicles.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Astra J Sedan variant lies the A16XER engine, a 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is a naturally aspirated unit, meaning it doesn’t employ turbocharging or supercharging. It utilizes multi-port fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the intake ports. The engine features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance and efficiency. The 115 hp output is achieved at 6000 rpm, while peak torque of 155 Nm (114.32 lb.-ft.) is delivered at 4000 rpm. The engine is transversely mounted, driving the front wheels. Paired with the engine is a five-speed manual transmission, chosen for its simplicity and contribution to fuel economy. The Start/Stop system automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) and restarts it quickly when the driver depresses the clutch pedal.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6-liter, 115 hp engine in the Astra J Sedan provides adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph takes around 11.3 seconds, and the top speed is approximately 119.92 mph. The five-speed manual transmission is geared to prioritize fuel efficiency, meaning the engine can feel somewhat strained at higher speeds or when overtaking. Compared to higher-output Astra J variants, such as those equipped with the 1.4 Turbo or 2.0 CDTI diesel engines, this 1.6-liter version feels noticeably less powerful. However, it offers a smoother and more linear power delivery than the turbocharged options, making it easier to drive in everyday situations. The gear ratios are relatively long, contributing to the fuel economy but requiring more frequent downshifts when encountering hills or needing to accelerate quickly.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra J Sedan 1.6 (115 hp) ecoFLEX Start/Stop typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, and a basic audio system with USB connectivity. Safety features such as ABS, Electronic Stability Program (ESP), and multiple airbags were also standard. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with a functional but not luxurious design. Optional extras included alloy wheels, upgraded audio systems, parking sensors, and a sunroof. Trim levels varied slightly depending on the specific market, but generally, this variant occupied the lower to mid-range of the Astra J Sedan lineup.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sedan 1.6 utilizes a MacPherson strut suspension setup at the front and a torsion beam suspension at the rear. This configuration provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes are ventilated discs, offering adequate stopping power, while the rear brakes are typically drum brakes to reduce costs. The electric power steering provides a light and easy steering feel, making it suitable for urban driving. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The chassis was tuned to prioritize comfort and fuel efficiency rather than outright sporty handling.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J Sedan 1.6 (115 hp) ecoFLEX Start/Stop was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient option. However, it was often criticized for its lack of outright performance compared to more powerful variants. Fuel economy figures of around 37.3 – 36.8 US mpg combined were considered competitive for its class. Compared to the diesel-powered Astra J models, the 1.6-liter gasoline version offered lower torque but was generally quieter and smoother. Against competitors like the Ford Focus Sedan and Volkswagen Jetta, the Astra J Sedan offered a comparable level of equipment and fuel economy, but often at a slightly lower price point.
Legacy
The A16XER engine, while not known for being particularly groundbreaking, proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. Common issues include occasional oil leaks and potential problems with the ignition coils. The five-speed manual transmission is also generally durable. In the used car market, the Astra J Sedan 1.6 (115 hp) ecoFLEX Start/Stop represents an affordable and economical option for buyers seeking a practical compact sedan. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low maintenance costs make it an attractive choice for those on a budget. However, potential buyers should be aware of the engine’s limitations in terms of performance and ensure that the vehicle has been regularly serviced.
