The Opel Astra K Sports Tourer (facelift, 2019) 1.2 Turbo, producing 145 horsepower, represents a significant iteration within the Astra K generation, produced from 2019 to 2021. Positioned as a mid-range offering in the Sports Tourer (estate/wagon) body style, this variant aimed to balance fuel efficiency with respectable performance for family and commuting needs. It built upon the foundation of the Astra K platform (1HX0) which was a crucial model for Opel, representing a move towards lighter construction and more modern technology. This facelift brought styling updates and refinements to the already popular K series.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra K Sports Tourer (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 | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5.4-5.5 l/100 km (43.6 – 42.8 US mpg, 52.3 – 51.4 UK mpg, 18.5 – 18.2 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9-4.0 l/100 km (60.3 – 58.8 US mpg, 72.4 – 70.6 UK mpg, 25.6 – 25 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.5 l/100 km (52.3 US mpg, 62.8 UK mpg, 22.2 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 102-105 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 220 km/h (136.7 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 6d |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.8 kg/Hp, 113.3 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.7 kg/Nm, 175.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 145 Hp @ 5500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 120.9 Hp/l |
| 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 | 1280 kg (2821.92 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1870 kg (4122.64 lbs.) |
| Max load | 590 kg (1300.73 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 540 l (19.07 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 1630 l (57.56 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%) | 1250 kg (2755.78 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 660 kg (1455.05 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 | 1548 mm (60.94 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1565 mm (61.61 in.) |
| Front overhang | 960 mm (37.8 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1080 mm (42.52 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 reduced emissions. The engine utilizes direct fuel injection, a technology that precisely meters fuel into the combustion chamber, improving combustion efficiency and reducing knock. The turbocharger, coupled with an intercooler, forces more air into the engine, boosting power output despite the relatively small displacement. The engine’s valvetrain features four valves per cylinder, optimizing gas flow for improved performance. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing a balance between fuel economy and driver engagement.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.2 Turbo 145 hp engine in the Astra K Sports Tourer delivers adequate performance for everyday driving. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 9.1 seconds, and top speed is rated at 136.7 mph. While not a sports car, the engine provides sufficient torque (225 Nm) available from 2000-3500 rpm, making overtaking and merging onto highways relatively effortless. Compared to the more powerful 1.6 Turbo variants, this engine prioritizes fuel economy over outright speed. The manual transmission offers precise shifts, but the gear ratios are tuned for efficiency rather than aggressive acceleration. The lighter engine weight compared to larger displacement options contributes to improved handling and responsiveness.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.2 Turbo 145 hp Sports Tourer typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, a touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth connectivity, power windows and mirrors, and alloy wheels. Higher trim levels added features such as automatic climate control, a larger touchscreen display, navigation, parking sensors, and advanced safety systems like lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for leather upgrades. Dashboard configuration was modern and functional, with a focus on ergonomics and ease of use.
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 torsion beam rear suspension is a cost-effective solution that minimizes weight and complexity. Braking duties are handled by disc brakes on all four wheels, providing adequate stopping power. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Astra K Sports Tourer 1.2 Turbo was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its fuel efficiency, comfortable ride, and spacious interior. However, some reviewers noted that the engine could feel strained when fully loaded or driving uphill. Compared to the 1.6 Turbo variants, the 1.2 Turbo offered better fuel economy but less performance. The 1.6 Diesel models provided even better fuel economy but at the cost of refinement and potential long-term maintenance concerns associated with diesel particulate filters. The 1.2 Turbo represented a sweet spot for buyers prioritizing practicality and running costs.
Legacy
The F12SHR engine has proven to be a relatively reliable powertrain. Common issues are generally minor, such as turbocharger wear or occasional sensor failures. The Astra K Sports Tourer, in general, has maintained a good reputation for build quality and durability. On the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition, offering a practical and efficient estate car at a reasonable price. Its fuel efficiency and relatively low running costs make it an attractive option for budget-conscious buyers. The Astra K series, and this variant in particular, helped solidify Opel’s position as a major player in the European compact car segment.
