The Opel Astra K Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec (110 hp) CNG, produced from 2018 to July 2019, represents a unique offering within the broader Astra K generation (2015-2021). Positioned as an environmentally conscious variant, it combined the practicality of a station wagon (estate) body style with a bi-fuel powertrain capable of running on both gasoline and Compressed Natural Gas (CNG). This model aimed to appeal to European drivers seeking lower running costs and reduced emissions, particularly in regions with established CNG infrastructure. It sat within the Astra K Sports Tourer lineup as a more economical alternative to the petrol and diesel options, offering a compromise between performance and efficiency.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra K Sports Tourer |
| Type (Engine) | 1.4 EcoTec (110 Hp) CNG |
| Start of production | 2018 |
| End of production | July, 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.5 l/100 km (67.2 US mpg, 80.7 UK mpg, 28.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 116 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol / CNG |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.3 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 11.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 195 km/h (121.17 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d-Temp |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 12.3 kg/Hp, 81.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.8 kg/Nm, 148.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 5600 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 200 Nm @ 2000-3600 rpm (147.51 lb.-ft. @ 2000-3600 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | D14XNT |
| Engine displacement | 1399 cm3 (85.37 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 74 mm (2.91 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 81.3 mm (3.2 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10:1 |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Engine oil capacity | 4 l (4.23 US qt | 3.52 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1350 kg (2976.24 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1930 kg (4254.92 lbs.) |
| Max load | 580 kg (1278.68 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1630 l (57.56 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 14 l (3.7 US gal | 3.08 UK gal) |
| CNG cylinder capacity | 13.4 kg |
| Max. roof load | 75 kg (165.35 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 750 kg (1653.47 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 700 kg (1543.24 lbs.) |
| Length | 4702 mm (185.12 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 | 1510 mm (59.45 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2662 mm (104.8 in.) |
| Front track | 1544 mm (60.79 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1558 mm (61.34 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 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 | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 7J x 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Astra K Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec CNG is the D14XNT engine, a 1.4-liter inline-four cylinder naturally aspirated gasoline engine. This engine is part of Opel’s EcoTec family, designed for efficiency and reduced emissions. It features multi-point fuel injection and a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain with four valves per cylinder. The engine is specifically adapted to run on CNG, utilizing a dedicated CNG fuel injection system alongside the standard gasoline system. When running on CNG, the engine management system automatically switches fuel sources. The 110 hp output is achieved at 5600 rpm, while peak torque of 200 Nm (147.51 lb-ft) is available between 2000 and 3600 rpm. The engine is paired with a six-speed manual transmission, which was the only transmission option offered with this configuration. The manual gearbox was chosen to maximize fuel efficiency and provide a more engaging driving experience.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.4 EcoTec CNG powertrain delivers modest performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) takes 12.3 seconds, and top speed is rated at 195 km/h (121.17 mph). Compared to the 1.4 Turbo (140 hp) or 1.6 Diesel (136 hp) versions of the Astra K Sports Tourer, the CNG model feels noticeably less powerful, particularly during overtaking maneuvers. The six-speed manual transmission helps to keep the engine in its optimal torque band, but requires more frequent gear changes to maintain momentum. The CNG system itself doesn’t significantly impact driving feel, although there is a slight reduction in power when running on CNG compared to gasoline. The suspension is tuned for comfort, providing a reasonably smooth ride, but the car isn’t particularly sporty in handling.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Astra K Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec CNG was typically offered in a mid-range trim level, often designated as “Edition” or similar, depending on the specific market. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows and mirrors, and basic safety features like ABS and multiple airbags. Optional extras included parking sensors, a rearview camera, cruise control, and upgraded upholstery. Interior materials were generally of good quality for the price point, with a focus on practicality and durability. The dashboard layout was clean and functional, with intuitive controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra K Sports Tourer utilizes a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provides a good balance between ride comfort and handling. The CNG variant shares the same chassis and braking system as other Astra K Sports Tourer models. Front brakes are ventilated discs, while rear brakes are solid discs. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard. The suspension components are tuned to accommodate the slightly different weight distribution caused by the CNG tank, which is typically located under the floor in the spare wheel well.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra K Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec CNG was well-received in markets with established CNG infrastructure, such as Germany, Italy, and the Netherlands. Critics praised its fuel efficiency and low running costs, but noted its relatively modest performance. Compared to the gasoline and diesel versions, the CNG model offered lower CO2 emissions and reduced fuel bills, but at the expense of acceleration and overall power. The CNG variant was often seen as a sensible choice for drivers who prioritize economy and environmental responsibility over outright performance.
Legacy
The Opel Astra K Sports Tourer 1.4 EcoTec CNG represents a significant step in Opel’s efforts to offer alternative fuel vehicles. While CNG adoption has been relatively slow in some markets, the Astra K CNG demonstrated the viability of this technology for mainstream vehicles. The D14XNT engine proved to be a reliable unit, and the CNG system itself is generally robust. On the used car market, these models are often sought after by drivers looking for a cost-effective and environmentally friendly station wagon. However, the availability of CNG refueling stations remains a key factor in the desirability of these vehicles.
