The Opel Astra K (facelift, introduced in August 2019 and produced through October 2021) represented a mid-cycle refresh of the highly successful Astra K series. Within the K generation, which utilized the GM’s 1HX0/A3 platform, the 1.2 Turbo variant, producing 145 horsepower, occupied a significant position in the lineup as a balance between fuel efficiency and performance. This version aimed to appeal to a broad customer base seeking a practical and modern hatchback. It was primarily marketed in Europe, where the Astra consistently ranked among the best-selling compact cars.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra K (facelift 2019) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.2 Turbo (145 Hp) |
| Start of production | August, 2019 |
| End of production | October, 2021 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.2-5.3 l/100 km (45.2 – 44.4 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.8-3.9 l/100 km (61.9 – 60.3 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3-4.4 l/100 km (54.7 – 53.5 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 99-101 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 120.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.4 kg/Nm, 186.7 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 145 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Torque | 225 Nm @ 2000-3500 rpm (165.95 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F12SHR |
| Engine displacement | 1199 cm3 (73.17 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 3 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 75 mm (2.95 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 90.5 mm (3.56 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1805 kg (3979.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 600 kg (1322.77 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 370 l (13.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1210 l (42.73 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 48 l (12.68 US gal | 10.56 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 620 kg (1366.87 lbs.) |
| Length | 4370 mm (172.05 in.) |
| Width | 1809 mm (71.22 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1871 mm (73.66 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2042 mm (80.39 in.) |
| Height | 1485 mm (58.46 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 748 mm (29.45 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.26 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.05 m (36.25 ft.) |
| 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 | Disc |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 205/65 R16; 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 6.5J x 16; 7J x 16; 7.5J x 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Astra variant is the F12SHR, a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel’s Small Engine Family (SEF), designed for efficiency and modularity. The F12SHR utilizes direct fuel injection, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber for improved combustion efficiency and reduced emissions. The engine also features a single-scroll turbocharger with an intercooler, boosting power output. The valvetrain employs four valves per cylinder, contributing to improved breathing and performance. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was standard, offering precise gear changes and a relatively engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 145 hp and 225 Nm (165.95 lb-ft) of torque provided by the 1.2 Turbo engine offered a respectable level of performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0 to 60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 220 km/h (136.7 mph). While not a sports car, the engine provided sufficient power for overtaking maneuvers and maintaining comfortable cruising speeds on the highway. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for a balance between fuel economy and responsiveness. Compared to the more powerful Astra variants, such as those equipped with larger engines, this version felt less eager to rev but offered better fuel efficiency. The three-cylinder engine’s character was noticeable, with a slightly rougher idle and a distinctive engine note.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 Turbo 145 hp Astra K typically came with a good level of standard equipment. This included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth connectivity, and a suite of safety features such as ABS, ESP (Electronic Stability Program), and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels offered additional features like automatic climate control, heated seats, a larger touchscreen display, and advanced driver-assistance systems such as lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades on higher trims. Dashboard configurations were modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra K featured 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. The steering was electric power-assisted, offering light and precise steering feel. The chassis was designed to be lightweight, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.2 Turbo 145 hp Astra K was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and modern features. However, some critics noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to other engines in the Astra K lineup, such as the 1.0-liter turbo or the diesel variants, the 1.2 Turbo offered a good compromise between performance and economy. The diesel models provided superior fuel economy but were more expensive to purchase and maintain. The 1.0-liter turbo was even more fuel-efficient but offered less power.
Legacy
The Opel/Vauxhall Astra K 1.2 Turbo (145 hp) has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. The engine, while a three-cylinder, has demonstrated good durability with regular maintenance. Common issues are typically related to the turbocharger or fuel injection system, but these are not widespread. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and well-equipped hatchback at a reasonable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Astra K, in general, remains a popular choice in the compact hatchback segment, and the 1.2 Turbo variant continues to be a sought-after model.
