The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI, producing 160 horsepower, was a key variant within the Astra J series, manufactured between 2010 and 2012. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Sports Tourer (estate/wagon) body style, it aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance for European drivers. This model represented Opel’s attempt to cater to families and individuals needing a practical vehicle with a degree of driving enjoyment. It was a significant player in the competitive European C-segment market, facing rivals like the Ford Focus Estate, Volkswagen Golf Variant, and Peugeot 308 SW.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 CDTI (160 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) | 6.5 l/100 km (36.2 US mpg, 43.5 UK mpg, 15.4 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 4.2 l/100 km (56 US mpg, 67.3 UK mpg, 23.8 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 5.1 l/100 km (46.1 US mpg, 55.4 UK mpg, 19.6 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 134 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.5 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.7 kg/Hp, 114.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4 kg/Nm, 251.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 81.8 Hp/l |
| Torque | 350 Nm @ 1750 rpm (258.15 lb.-ft. @ 1750 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A20DTH |
| Engine displacement | 1956 cm3 (119.36 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 83 mm (3.27 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.4 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 18:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 4.5 l (4.76 US qt | 3.96 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 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 | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| 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 heart of the Astra J Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI was the A20DTH engine, a 1.956-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine was part of Opel/Vauxhall’s second-generation common rail diesel family. It featured a turbocharger with intercooling to boost power and efficiency. The A20DTH utilized a sophisticated Bosch common rail direct injection system, operating at a high pressure of 1800 bar, enabling precise fuel delivery and contributing to reduced emissions. The engine employed an overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. A particulate filter was standard, helping to meet stringent Euro 5 emission standards. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver control. The engine’s design prioritized torque delivery at low RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving and hauling loads.
Driving Characteristics
The 160 hp 2.0 CDTI engine, coupled with the 6-speed manual transmission, provided a reasonably engaging driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took around 9 seconds, which was adequate for most situations, though not particularly sporty. The engine’s 350 Nm (258 lb-ft) of torque, available from 1750 rpm, meant that strong pulling power was readily accessible for overtaking and climbing hills. The gear ratios were well-chosen to maximize fuel efficiency while still providing sufficient acceleration in each gear. Compared to the lower-powered 1.3 CDTI variants, the 2.0 CDTI offered a noticeable improvement in performance, especially when fully loaded. However, it didn’t match the responsiveness of the petrol-powered Astra J models. The suspension was tuned for comfort, providing a relatively smooth ride, but it wasn’t as sharp or engaging as some of its rivals.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.0 CDTI Sports Tourer typically came with a good level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/radio system, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Sport’ or ‘SE’, added features like automatic climate control, parking sensors, cruise control, and upgraded upholstery. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an extra. The dashboard layout was functional and well-designed, with clear instrumentation. Optional extras included a navigation system, panoramic sunroof, and advanced safety features like adaptive cruise control.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer 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, while the rear brakes were solid discs, providing adequate stopping power for the vehicle’s weight. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard. The steering was electrically assisted, offering a light and precise feel. The chassis was designed to maximize interior space while maintaining a reasonable level of rigidity.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra J Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and comfortable ride. However, some critics noted that the engine could be a bit noisy and that the handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its rivals. Compared to the 1.3 CDTI variant, the 2.0 CDTI offered significantly better performance, but at a higher price point. The 2.0 CDTI also offered better fuel economy than the petrol-powered Astra J models, making it a popular choice for drivers who prioritized efficiency. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF).
Legacy
The A20DTH engine proved to be a relatively reliable unit when properly maintained. However, like many modern diesel engines, it was susceptible to issues with the DPF if not driven on longer journeys regularly. In the used car market, the Astra J Sports Tourer 2.0 CDTI remains a popular choice for those seeking a practical and fuel-efficient estate car. Its combination of space, comfort, and reasonable performance continues to appeal to a wide range of buyers. Parts availability is generally good, and maintenance costs are relatively affordable, making it a sensible option for budget-conscious drivers.
