The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo, producing 120 horsepower, was a key variant within the Astra J series, specifically the Sports Tourer (estate/wagon) body style. Introduced in 2010 and remaining in production through 2012, this model aimed to provide a balance of fuel efficiency, practicality, and affordability within the Astra J lineup. It occupied a mid-range position, offering a step up from the base models while remaining more accessible than the higher-powered or more luxuriously equipped trims. The Astra J generation (2009-2015) represented a significant redesign for the Astra, moving towards a more sculpted and modern aesthetic, and incorporating improved technology and safety features.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 Turbo (120 Hp) |
| Start of production | 2010 |
| End of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 8.4 l/100 km (28 US mpg, 33.6 UK mpg, 11.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.9 l/100 km (48 US mpg, 57.6 UK mpg, 20.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.1 l/100 km (38.6 US mpg, 46.3 UK mpg, 16.4 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 144 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 11.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 10.6 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 11.6 kg/Hp, 86.1 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8 kg/Nm, 125.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 120 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 85.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 175 Nm @ 4800 rpm (129.07 lb.-ft. @ 4800 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A14NEL |
| Engine displacement | 1398 cm3 (85.31 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 73.4 mm (2.89 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 82.6 mm (3.25 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.2 l (6.55 US qt | 5.46 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1393 kg (3071.04 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1960 kg (4321.06 lbs.) |
| Max load | 567 kg (1250.02 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 550 l (19.42 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1550 l (54.74 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 56 l (14.79 US gal | 12.32 UK gal) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Front overhang | 974 mm (38.35 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1039 mm (40.91 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 117 mm (4.61 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Drivetrain Architecture | ICE, Front wheel drive |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 215/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo utilized the A14NEL engine code, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder gasoline engine. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s family of small-displacement, turbocharged engines designed for efficiency and reasonable performance. It featured direct fuel injection, a technology that improves combustion efficiency and power output. The engine also incorporated a turbocharger with an intercooler, which forces more air into the cylinders, boosting power. The valvetrain employed a Dual Overhead Camshaft (DOHC) design with four valves per cylinder, optimizing airflow for improved performance. The 1.4 Turbo was paired with a six-speed manual transmission, providing a good balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s relatively small displacement and turbocharging allowed it to deliver adequate power while keeping emissions and fuel consumption relatively low.
Driving Characteristics
The 120 hp 1.4 Turbo engine in the Astra J Sports Tourer provided adequate, but not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 10.6 seconds, and top speed was approximately 118 mph. The turbocharger provided a noticeable boost in power during acceleration, but the engine could feel somewhat strained at higher speeds or when fully loaded. Compared to the more powerful 1.6-liter naturally aspirated engine or the 2.0-liter CDTI diesel, the 1.4 Turbo offered less outright performance. However, it provided better fuel economy than the larger engines. The six-speed manual transmission was well-matched to the engine, offering precise shifts and allowing the driver to keep the engine in its optimal power band. The gear ratios were tuned for fuel efficiency, with a relatively long final drive. The driving experience was generally comfortable and refined, typical of the Astra J generation.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.4 Turbo Sports Tourer typically came with a reasonable level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, ABS brakes, and front and side airbags. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Enjoy’ or ‘Cosmo’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a more sophisticated infotainment system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials on higher trims. Optional extras included parking sensors, a sunroof, and a navigation system. The Sports Tourer body style itself was a key feature, offering a significantly larger cargo area than the hatchback version, making it ideal for families or those needing to transport larger items.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The torsion beam rear suspension was a cost-effective solution, but it didn’t offer the same level of sophistication as a fully independent rear suspension. Braking was handled by ventilated discs on the front wheels and solid discs on the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) was standard, providing enhanced braking performance and stability. The steering was electric power-assisted, offering a light and precise feel. The chassis was designed to provide a stable and predictable driving experience, with a focus on comfort and safety.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo was generally well-received by critics as a practical and fuel-efficient estate car. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and reasonable performance. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel underpowered, especially when fully loaded. Compared to the diesel variants, the 1.4 Turbo offered lower torque but better responsiveness. Fuel economy was a strong point, with combined figures around 38.6 US mpg. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the turbocharger or fuel injection system. The Astra J Sports Tourer competed with other estate cars such as the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Estate, and Peugeot 308 SW.
Legacy
The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.4 Turbo remains a relatively common sight on used car markets. The A14NEL engine, while not known for being exceptionally durable, has proven to be reasonably reliable with regular maintenance. Common issues include turbocharger wear and potential problems with the direct injection system. The car’s affordability and practicality continue to make it an attractive option for buyers looking for a spacious and fuel-efficient estate car. The Astra J generation as a whole helped to solidify Opel’s reputation for building well-rounded and reliable vehicles, and the Sports Tourer variant remains a popular choice for those needing a versatile and practical family car.
