The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer (facelift, introduced in 2012) 1.7 CDTI (110 horsepower) Ecotec start/stop represents a significant iteration within the broader Astra J generation (2009-2015). Positioned as a fuel-efficient and practical option within the Sports Tourer – Opel’s station wagon variant – this model aimed to appeal to buyers prioritizing economy and versatility. Production of this specific configuration ran from 2012 to 2014, coinciding with the mid-cycle refresh of the Astra J, which brought styling updates and technological enhancements. The Astra J, in general, was Opel’s competitor in the compact family car segment, primarily targeting the European market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Opel |
| Model | Astra |
| Generation | Astra J Sports Tourer (facelift 2012) |
| Type (Engine) | 1.7 CDTI (110 Hp) Ecotec start/stop |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| End of production | 2014 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Station wagon (estate) |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 5 l/100 km (47 US mpg, 56.5 UK mpg, 20 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 3.9 l/100 km (60.3 US mpg, 72.4 UK mpg, 25.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 4.3 l/100 km (54.7 US mpg, 65.7 UK mpg, 23.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 114 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 12.7 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 12.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 184 km/h (114.33 mph) |
| Emission standard | Euro 5 |
| Power | 110 Hp @ 4000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 65.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 280 Nm @ 1750-2500 rpm (206.52 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2500 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | A17DTC |
| Engine displacement | 1686 cm3 (102.89 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 79 mm (3.11 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.4 l (5.71 US qt | 4.75 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 7.1 l (7.5 US qt | 6.25 UK qt) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 500 l (17.66 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) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Length | 4698 mm (184.96 in.) |
| Width | 1814 mm (71.42 in.) |
| Width with mirrors folded | 1831 mm (72.09 in.) |
| Width including mirrors | 2013 mm (79.25 in.) |
| Height | 1535 mm (60.43 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2685 mm (105.71 in.) |
| Front track | 1541 mm (60.67 in.) |
| Rear track | 1551 mm (61.06 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 165 mm (6.5 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 6 |
| Gearbox type | Manual transmission |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| 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 this Astra Sports Tourer is the A17DTC engine, a 1.7-liter inline-four cylinder diesel. This engine is part of Opel/Vauxhall’s ‘Ecotec’ family, emphasizing efficiency and reduced emissions. The A17DTC utilizes a common rail direct injection system, delivering fuel directly into the combustion chamber at extremely high pressure. This, combined with a turbocharger and intercooler, allows for a good balance of power and fuel economy. The engine features four valves per cylinder and a single overhead camshaft. The start/stop system, a key feature of this variant, automatically shuts off the engine when the vehicle is stationary (e.g., at traffic lights) to further reduce fuel consumption and emissions. The engine is transversely mounted at the front of the vehicle. The 6-speed manual transmission was the standard offering for this trim, providing a relatively long gearing for optimal fuel efficiency.
Driving Characteristics
The 110 horsepower and 280 Nm (206 lb-ft) of torque offered by the 1.7 CDTI engine provided adequate, though not exhilarating, performance. Acceleration from 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph) took approximately 12.7 seconds. The engine’s torque peak, available from 1750-2500 rpm, meant that it felt reasonably responsive in everyday driving situations, particularly for overtaking. Compared to the more powerful 1.4 Turbo petrol or the 2.0 CDTI diesel variants, this 1.7 CDTI felt noticeably slower. However, it offered a more relaxed driving experience, prioritizing fuel economy over outright performance. The manual transmission’s gear ratios were geared towards maximizing fuel efficiency, meaning the engine sometimes felt strained when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.7 CDTI Sports Tourer typically fell into the mid-range of the Astra J lineup. Standard equipment generally included air conditioning, electric front windows, a CD/MP3 stereo system, and basic safety features like ABS and multiple airbags. Higher trim levels, such as ‘Sport’ or ‘Elite’, added features like alloy wheels, cruise control, automatic climate control, and parking sensors. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with a focus on ergonomics.
Chassis & Braking
The Astra J Sports Tourer utilized a MacPherson strut front suspension and a torsion beam rear suspension. This setup provided a reasonable balance between ride comfort and handling. The front brakes were ventilated discs, while the rear brakes were typically solid discs, depending on the specific trim level. Electric power steering was standard, offering a light and easy steering feel. The suspension was tuned for comfort, prioritizing a smooth ride over sporty handling. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both the front and rear axles to reduce body roll during cornering.
Market Reception & Comparison
The 1.7 CDTI Sports Tourer was generally well-received by critics for its fuel efficiency and practicality. It was seen as a sensible choice for buyers who prioritized economy and space over performance. Compared to the 1.4 Turbo petrol, the 1.7 CDTI offered significantly better fuel economy, but less power. The 2.0 CDTI diesel provided more performance but came at a higher price point and with slightly higher running costs. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported issues with the diesel particulate filter (DPF) system, a common issue with modern diesel engines.
Legacy
The Opel Astra J Sports Tourer 1.7 CDTI remains a relatively common sight on European roads today. The A17DTC engine, while not known for being particularly exciting, has proven to be reasonably durable and reliable when properly maintained. The start/stop system, while contributing to fuel savings, has been known to cause issues with the dual-mass flywheel in some cases. In the used car market, this variant represents a good value proposition for buyers seeking a practical and fuel-efficient station wagon. Its relatively low running costs and spacious interior make it a popular choice for families and individuals alike.
